Showing posts with label business start - up. Show all posts
Showing posts with label business start - up. Show all posts
Monday, December 23, 2013
Planning for the Future
到夏威夷長住 -
Ben: That's great, Uncle Bob. I can see Hawaii is beckoning, but I don't know what I'll do if you aren't around.
Uncle Bob: Thanks, Ben, but I doubt you'll need me that badly.
Ben: Seriously, Uncle Bob, I'm pretty sure my business will go under without your advice.
Uncle Bob: That's a bit premature. You've built that business with a lot of time and hard work.
Ben: I have put a lot of work into it, but there are still so many things I'm unsure of.
Uncle Bob: Like what?
Ben: Well, I still have lots of questions, and I'm really not sure which direction the company is headed.
Uncle Bob: What? I've read your business plan, and it was very clear.
Ben: Right. It was clear, but you'd be stunned by how much my industry has changed in the last year.
Uncle Bob: That's just the way business is, Ben.
Ben: I know, but what can I do about it?
Uncle Bob: Well, Ben, you need to take some initiative. You need to refocus on your business plan.
Ben: Refocus?
Uncle Bob: Sure. When we first talked about business plans, I told you that they need to evolve over time.
Ben: I get that. That's why I've worked hard to stay abreast of changes that are happening in the industry.
Uncle Bob: I know you have. But sometimes being aware of changes isn't enough. Sometimes you need to get ahead of the changes in order to stay relevant.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: I think the main thing is to look at prospective changes in your industry and to consider how you might deal with them.
Ben: You mean I should plan for things that might happen and not just react to things that have happened.
Uncle Bob: Exactly, Ben. You see, you don't need me at all.
Ben: I'll always need you, Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Then you'll have to come and visit Hawaii.
Ben: Now that's good advice!
Grammar Gym:
"I get that." - "get".
"I get that." - I understand that.
I didn't get one single thing in that meeting.
I'm sorry, I don't get that joke.
I got it! - when you finally find a way to solve a difficult problem what is bothered you for a long time, you can say: I got it!
Vocabulary Tips:
contemplate -seriously to thinking of something, consider about it for a long time.细细考虑或思量。
*For a long time, Timothy has been contemplating a career change.
*Nathan contemplated moving to the suburbs but give up the idea because of the long commute.
condo - condominium, a complex building.集合时管理的公寓住宅。
*Jacob and his wife and kids live in a condo near the beach.
condo / apartment -拥有产权的公寓/只租不卖的公寓。
beckon -calling you, attract to you. 召唤，招手（呼唤）吸引。
*The beautiful dress in the window is beckoning me.
*The long, sandy beach is beckoning swimmers and sunbathers. 日光浴的人
premature -not about time yet, too early of something. 未成熟的。 'pre' -在。之前，以先。 'mature' -成熟。
*The premature baby stayed in the incubator for a week. 早产的婴儿。。保温箱。
*It's still too premature to predict who's going to win the election.
a change of something (living environment, job...) - make some changes at something.
go under - falling, failing, sink.
put a lot of something into something - put a lot of (time, afford, energy..) into work, project, practice...
initiative -take first step, do before people tell you to do, step ahead. take care of something before the thing became an issue. 主动，积极行动。
*Will is going for an interview tomorrow and took the initiative to do some research on the company.
lost the initiative - 失去先机。
*We will lose the initiative by not investing in the development of new products.
breast -stay on top, not behind. 原本是并行，并肩，并排的意思。此为‘不落后的，跟得上的，跟上脚步的。
*We'll keep you abreast of the latest news.
*As a merchandiser, Sarah keeps abreast of new fashion trends.
relevant -related, important.相关的，有关的，有重要性的。
*Please keep your discussion relevant to the agenda.
*Your proposal is highly relevant to our company's future.
prospective -maybe not now but in the future might happen.未来的，将发上的。 'pro' -向前的 'pect'-看。
*We hope the new marketing strategy will bring a prospective increase in sales.
*The ad is aimed at prospective clients.
get ahead of something - do something before other people started to do, not just stay at the same place.
get ahead of something = to have in edge - to get on the top of something.
evolve - change gradually from one thing to another. 有进展的，延伸。。
over time - time after time, for a long process of time.
Language Tips:
news- uncountable noun. 新闻。不可数名词。前面不加 'a'. 不用‘many’, 要用‘ much, some.’ 而且动词要用单数 'is'。不要看到news有‘s’ 就以为是复数形。
Is there any news? No, there is not much news.
I have some big news to share with you.
Wow. That is big news.
news -不能用 "a", 只能用"piece" or "item/story/report 来说明某个条或那一则新闻 -
Did you see the news report about the train crash?
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be aware of something - 意识 到有东西在那里或某事物的存在。。。
beware of something - there is some danger need to be alerted.小心，提防。。
aware of / beware of - sense/ alert. 小心，提防, 留意。
beware - careful, pay attention,
Beware of the dog.- 小心恶犬。
aware of dog -意识 到。。。
be aware of the dog -意识 到有狗在那儿睡觉。
Sometimes being aware of changes isn't enough. 有时只是意识 到一些的变化是不够的。
Notes taking of Studioclassroom.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Saying Goodbye
Losing employees can be tough
當員工向老闆說再見 -
Ben: How do they do that?
Uncle Bob: Many contracts include a clause that prevents employees from working for a competitor for a period of time.
Ben: That seems like a good idea, but it won't solve the problem of Terry leaving. He's not going to work for my competition. He's leaving because of family problems.
Uncle Bob: There isn't much you can do about him leaving then. But there are still things you can do to make your company more resistant to problems when employees do leave.
Ben: Like what?
Uncle Bob: Well, for starters, you could cross-train your employees.
Ben: What does that mean?
Uncle Bob: It just means you train your employees to do several different jobs. For example, you might train Angela to do Ralph's job but also Ralph to do Angela's job.
Ben: That would give me a lot more flexibility and make it easier to maintain continuity if someone does leave.
Uncle Bob: Exactly, it also makes employees more versatile. You wouldn't have to worry about things like vacation and sick leave, for example.
Ben: Cross-training is probably good for employees, too. It would help them learn new skills and keep them from getting bored with their jobs.
Uncle Bob: That's true. And having happy employees will help keep people at the company.
Ben: Those are great ideas, Uncle Bob.
Grammar Gym:
"It's not really a problem, I guess."
"I guess." - not really sure about what was just said. It's an informal way saying...
"It's not really a problem, I guess" - "I suppose it's not really a problem.
I'm not sure what the plan is for this evening, but we can go watch a movie I guess.
It's strange how Karen just started crying; she must be upset about something. I guess.
Vocabulary Tips:
annoyance -something is kind of bothering you. 使人讨厌或烦人的。
*Mosquitoes are such an annoyance. 蚊子。。。
*Susan thinks dealing with customers is an annoyance.
annoy (v) - bothering you 打扰，干扰。
*My sister's snoring really annoys me.
deprive -you lost it, it was taking from you. 剥夺，使失去。
deprive of something - something you need is gone.
*Jessica thinks her parents deprive her of her freedom.
*Our competitor has deprived us of our most outstanding salesperson. 抢走了。。
sleep deprive - need more sleep.
resentment - ('s' 发 'z'音）offend, get angry, mad. 不可数n.，愤慨，怨愤，愤恨。
*George hid his resentment toward his parents.
resent -痛恨。
Fanny resent the hypocrisy found in politics. 政治界里的 虚伪。
clause - it's an official statement that legally bound. 条款，款项。
*There's a clause in the contract that entitles the buyers to a refund if there are defects.
clause - 句子中的字句。
*The sentence contains an adverb clause. 副词子句。
what keeps you up at night - it does not mean that you don't get sleep, it means that something really bothers you, and always in your mind.
losing - lost in the game, here is refer to not going to have anymore. 输赢的输，此指“失去”。
resistant - something against or can be prevented from harm. a water resistant watch. 第一个“s” 发"z" 的音。抵抗，抵抗力。
resistant to - 对什么事或物抵抗加“to”
*The paint is resistant to extreme weather conditions.
*This super germ is resistant to all kinds of antibiotics.
cross-train: 交叉训练。'cross' -交叉
*Our department cross-trained us in both marketing and customer service.
cross-training :（动名词）
*Interdepartmental cross-training is quite effective.
continuity (n) - continue and not to break down,something does not change for a long time and stay staple.持续性，连贯性。
*There has been no continuity in this course because we have had three different teachers.
*To maintain continuity in this sequel the producer used the director of the original movie.
versatile - more functional. 多功能的。多才多艺的。 'vers' -turn，“转”之意
*Sherry is a versatile entertainer who can sing and act. 多才多艺的的艺人。
versatility (n) -多才多艺的
*Hank's versatility made him stand out as an athlete. 极其出众的运动员。
prohibit - not allow. stop from something.
Language Tips:
hello/ hi / dear - 后面都要带上人名（礼貌）
hey - very casual, 和很熟的人打招呼。
Hey, Uncle Bob.
hey - 不宜使用在对方是初次见面的人和年长的。
Hello Michelle.
Hey Gabe.
Hi Steve.
dear - 写信给第一次通信，未曾见过面的，还是用dear 较合适。
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tough / rough :
tough - something is very difficult.
rough - something is very difficult, also with a lots of problems.
-------------------------------------------------------------
employee -受雇人。
"ee" / "er" - 接受的人/付出给与的人. 动词后面加"ee" / "er"。
employ -雇佣。
train -训练
trainee - 受训的人。
trainer - 教官，训练人的人。
exam - 考试
examinee -考生。应考者。
examiner - 考官。出题目的人。
"ee" 不是可以用在任何动词后面的。如：
murder- 谋杀
murderer -谋杀的执行人。但是被谋杀的人不能说murderee.
Taking notes of StudioClassroom
當員工向老闆說再見 -
Ben: How do they do that?
Uncle Bob: Many contracts include a clause that prevents employees from working for a competitor for a period of time.
Ben: That seems like a good idea, but it won't solve the problem of Terry leaving. He's not going to work for my competition. He's leaving because of family problems.
Uncle Bob: There isn't much you can do about him leaving then. But there are still things you can do to make your company more resistant to problems when employees do leave.
Ben: Like what?
Uncle Bob: Well, for starters, you could cross-train your employees.
Ben: What does that mean?
Uncle Bob: It just means you train your employees to do several different jobs. For example, you might train Angela to do Ralph's job but also Ralph to do Angela's job.
Ben: That would give me a lot more flexibility and make it easier to maintain continuity if someone does leave.
Uncle Bob: Exactly, it also makes employees more versatile. You wouldn't have to worry about things like vacation and sick leave, for example.
Ben: Cross-training is probably good for employees, too. It would help them learn new skills and keep them from getting bored with their jobs.
Uncle Bob: That's true. And having happy employees will help keep people at the company.
Ben: Those are great ideas, Uncle Bob.
Grammar Gym:
"It's not really a problem, I guess."
"I guess." - not really sure about what was just said. It's an informal way saying...
"It's not really a problem, I guess" - "I suppose it's not really a problem.
I'm not sure what the plan is for this evening, but we can go watch a movie I guess.
It's strange how Karen just started crying; she must be upset about something. I guess.
Vocabulary Tips:
annoyance -something is kind of bothering you. 使人讨厌或烦人的。
*Mosquitoes are such an annoyance. 蚊子。。。
*Susan thinks dealing with customers is an annoyance.
annoy (v) - bothering you 打扰，干扰。
*My sister's snoring really annoys me.
deprive -you lost it, it was taking from you. 剥夺，使失去。
deprive of something - something you need is gone.
*Jessica thinks her parents deprive her of her freedom.
*Our competitor has deprived us of our most outstanding salesperson. 抢走了。。
sleep deprive - need more sleep.
resentment - ('s' 发 'z'音）offend, get angry, mad. 不可数n.，愤慨，怨愤，愤恨。
*George hid his resentment toward his parents.
resent -痛恨。
Fanny resent the hypocrisy found in politics. 政治界里的 虚伪。
clause - it's an official statement that legally bound. 条款，款项。
*There's a clause in the contract that entitles the buyers to a refund if there are defects.
clause - 句子中的字句。
*The sentence contains an adverb clause. 副词子句。
what keeps you up at night - it does not mean that you don't get sleep, it means that something really bothers you, and always in your mind.
losing - lost in the game, here is refer to not going to have anymore. 输赢的输，此指“失去”。
resistant - something against or can be prevented from harm. a water resistant watch. 第一个“s” 发"z" 的音。抵抗，抵抗力。
resistant to - 对什么事或物抵抗加“to”
*The paint is resistant to extreme weather conditions.
*This super germ is resistant to all kinds of antibiotics.
cross-train: 交叉训练。'cross' -交叉
*Our department cross-trained us in both marketing and customer service.
cross-training :（动名词）
*Interdepartmental cross-training is quite effective.
continuity (n) - continue and not to break down,something does not change for a long time and stay staple.持续性，连贯性。
*There has been no continuity in this course because we have had three different teachers.
*To maintain continuity in this sequel the producer used the director of the original movie.
versatile - more functional. 多功能的。多才多艺的。 'vers' -turn，“转”之意
*Sherry is a versatile entertainer who can sing and act. 多才多艺的的艺人。
versatility (n) -多才多艺的
*Hank's versatility made him stand out as an athlete. 极其出众的运动员。
prohibit - not allow. stop from something.
Language Tips:
hello/ hi / dear - 后面都要带上人名（礼貌）
hey - very casual, 和很熟的人打招呼。
Hey, Uncle Bob.
hey - 不宜使用在对方是初次见面的人和年长的。
Hello Michelle.
Hey Gabe.
Hi Steve.
dear - 写信给第一次通信，未曾见过面的，还是用dear 较合适。
-------------------------------------------------------------
tough / rough :
tough - something is very difficult.
rough - something is very difficult, also with a lots of problems.
-------------------------------------------------------------
employee -受雇人。
"ee" / "er" - 接受的人/付出给与的人. 动词后面加"ee" / "er"。
employ -雇佣。
train -训练
trainee - 受训的人。
trainer - 教官，训练人的人。
exam - 考试
examinee -考生。应考者。
examiner - 考官。出题目的人。
"ee" 不是可以用在任何动词后面的。如：
murder- 谋杀
murderer -谋杀的执行人。但是被谋杀的人不能说murderee.
Taking notes of StudioClassroom
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Customer Troubles
Negotiating skills are an important part of customer service
客服難題 -
客服難題 -
Ben: Hey, Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Hi, Ben. How's the business?
Ben: OK, but I'm having trouble with some customers.
Uncle Bob: What kind?
Ben: I feel like they are taking advantage of me. I keep getting pushed into doing more work for less pay.
Uncle Bob: Give me an example.
Ben: OK. When I give one of my customers a price quote for a job, he'll agree to the price. But then when we're about to sign the contract, he'll say something like "Technical support is part of this package, right?"
Uncle Bob: So what do you do?
Ben: What can I do? I basically agree to whatever he's asking.
Uncle Bob: It sounds like you're having trouble with negotiations.
Ben: Negotiations?
Uncle Bob: Your customer is using a negotiating strategy called "the nibble.".
Ben: The nibble?
Uncle Bob: It's called the nibble because each of those little requests is like a little bite.
It's effective because you've already made the deal in your mind, and the extra concessions seem small compared to the bigger deal.
Ben: What can I do to stop the nibble?
Uncle Bob: There are many ways to counteract the nibble. The easiest is probably just to show your customer a written price list that lays out the costs of additional features or services.
Ben: I have another example.
Uncle Bob: Okay.
Ben: One of my customers always responds to a price quote by saying " You'll have to do better than that!"
And you respond by lowering the price?
Ben: Right, but I always feel like I've lowered it too much.
Uncle Bob: That strategy is called "the vise". The best way to handle it is to ask how much better you'll have to do. That way, you don't end up in the downward spiral of negotiating against yourself by offering lower prices than necessary.
Ben: I see. I also have a customer who always responds to my prices by claiming he doesn't have that much money.
Uncle Bob: Do you remember the game hot potato?
Ben: Sure. You have to pass the hot potato to someone else before time runs out, right?
Right. That's what your customer is trying to do to you. He's trying to manipulate you by passing his problems on to you.
Ben: How can I prevent that?
Uncle Bob: Don't become hostile. Just pass one of your problem right back to the customer. Explain that you won't be able to complete the project for the money he's offering or that you need the money for your children's education.
Ben: That's great. Thanks. Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Glad to help. Ben.
Grammar Tips:
"That way, you don't end up in the downward spiral of negotiating against yourself by offering lower prices than necessary.
'the way' - Do I go this way or that way?
'the way ' - if you follow what was just mentioned.
Pack your book bag before you sleep; that way, you will have one less thing to worry about in the morning.
Always keep an extra umbrella at work; that way, you will be prepared in case it suddenly rains.
Ben: I have another example.
Uncle Bob: Okay.
Ben: One of my customers always responds to a price quote by saying " You'll have to do better than that!"
And you respond by lowering the price?
Ben: Right, but I always feel like I've lowered it too much.
Uncle Bob: That strategy is called "the vise". The best way to handle it is to ask how much better you'll have to do. That way, you don't end up in the downward spiral of negotiating against yourself by offering lower prices than necessary.
Ben: I see. I also have a customer who always responds to my prices by claiming he doesn't have that much money.
Uncle Bob: Do you remember the game hot potato?
Ben: Sure. You have to pass the hot potato to someone else before time runs out, right?
Right. That's what your customer is trying to do to you. He's trying to manipulate you by passing his problems on to you.
Ben: How can I prevent that?
Uncle Bob: Don't become hostile. Just pass one of your problem right back to the customer. Explain that you won't be able to complete the project for the money he's offering or that you need the money for your children's education.
Ben: That's great. Thanks. Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Glad to help. Ben.
Grammar Tips:
"That way, you don't end up in the downward spiral of negotiating against yourself by offering lower prices than necessary.
'the way' - Do I go this way or that way?
'the way ' - if you follow what was just mentioned.
Pack your book bag before you sleep; that way, you will have one less thing to worry about in the morning.
Always keep an extra umbrella at work; that way, you will be prepared in case it suddenly rains.
Vocabulary Tips:
push someone into something -强迫某人或逼迫某人去做某事。
push -逼迫，施加压力。
*Howard felt that he was pushed into taking over his father's business.
*Max got pushed into joining the football team by his friends.
package -整套服务或整套的商品。全套的。
*I thought medical insurance was included in the package.
*The package includes train tickets and a one-night stay at the Hilton.
concession - 让步，妥协。
*The company decided to make a concession in order to get the contract signed.
*The president declared that the government would make no concessions to the terrorists. 宣布。。绝不让步。
counteract -对抗，抵抗，抵制。 'counter' -反对。
*The doctor prescribed some medicine to counteract the side effects of the treatment.
*New measures were taken to counteract bullying at school.
quote - here refer to price that how much someone need to pay.估价。 also means someone says something use quotation mark, such as quote someone's word. 引号，引用别人的话。
too much for too little / or too little for too much.
having trouble with something - have problem with something.
getting pushed into doing something - make you have to do it.
negotiation (n) / negotiations - talk to lower the price or ask for adding something ..讨价还价，商议。
nibble - take a small bite. take a small bite of something. because just a small piece people would not care too much. 小口小口的吃。一次只咬下或吃一点点。
vise/ vice (n) - a kind of tool. 也指邪恶的行径，恶习，弱点，缺点，恶劣的行径。
*Pride is one of his vises.骄傲是他的缺点之一。
*The police successfully smashed a large vise ring. 破获了。。犯罪集团。
*The reporter revealed the vice and corruption of the politician. 揭露着政客。恶劣及腐败的行径。
downward spiral - things are keep getting worst. 恶性循环。spiral - 螺旋。
*Lack of funds and high interest rates pushed him into a downward financial spiral.
manipulate - control to get your way or what you want.操纵，操控，控制。
*The movie star is good at manipulating the media to get the attention she wants. 善于操纵媒体。。
manipulate -操作或操控某种机械。
*Pilots go through strict training in order to manipulate the controls on the panel in the cockpit.
hostile -not friendly. opposite of friendly. 怀有敌意的，不友善的。
*The people in that town are pretty hostile to outsiders. 对外来的人非常不友善。
*The boy is so hostile because he was physically abused for years. 如此怀有敌意是因为他多年来一直受到肢体暴力对待。
upward spiral - things are keep getting better and better. 增增日上，越来愈好。
vise/ vice (n) - a kind of tool. 也指邪恶的行径，恶习，弱点，缺点，恶劣的行径。
*Pride is one of his vises.骄傲是他的缺点之一。
*The police successfully smashed a large vise ring. 破获了。。犯罪集团。
*The reporter revealed the vice and corruption of the politician. 揭露着政客。恶劣及腐败的行径。
downward spiral - things are keep getting worst. 恶性循环。spiral - 螺旋。
*Lack of funds and high interest rates pushed him into a downward financial spiral.
manipulate - control to get your way or what you want.操纵，操控，控制。
*The movie star is good at manipulating the media to get the attention she wants. 善于操纵媒体。。
manipulate -操作或操控某种机械。
*Pilots go through strict training in order to manipulate the controls on the panel in the cockpit.
hostile -not friendly. opposite of friendly. 怀有敌意的，不友善的。
*The people in that town are pretty hostile to outsiders. 对外来的人非常不友善。
*The boy is so hostile because he was physically abused for years. 如此怀有敌意是因为他多年来一直受到肢体暴力对待。
upward spiral - things are keep getting better and better. 增增日上，越来愈好。
Language Tips:
question mark - ? 不只是有问题向人提出请问。也用来表示“疑问，不确定或惊讶"
She asked if I was hungry - 间接疑问句后面不需要问号。
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cheap / frugal - 小气鬼/ 节俭的人。
cheap - 便宜，不值钱。
cheap - is stingy, like to haggle. 用在人身上是很负面的。很小气，喜欢杀价，令周遭的人不愉快。
stingy -小气，吝啬。
haggle -杀价。
frugal - 节俭的。为了省钱而bargain， 省下来的钱，慷慨地愿意去帮助有需要的人。
Notes taking of StudioClassroom
cheap / frugal - 小气鬼/ 节俭的人。
cheap - 便宜，不值钱。
cheap - is stingy, like to haggle. 用在人身上是很负面的。很小气，喜欢杀价，令周遭的人不愉快。
stingy -小气，吝啬。
haggle -杀价。
frugal - 节俭的。为了省钱而bargain， 省下来的钱，慷慨地愿意去帮助有需要的人。
Notes taking of StudioClassroom
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Managing Difficult Workers
管理難搞員工 -
Uncle Bob: You need to figure out how to make this a win-win situation.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: Well, problem employees often behave the way they want, because their behavior has helped them get what they want in the past.
Ben: There's definitely a kernel of truth in that.
Uncle Bob: So making this a win-win situation will depend on making sure that bad behavior is no longer an effective way for Ralph to get what he wants.
Ben: I already have rules, It's just that he won't abide by them.
Uncle Bob: Then you need to have clearly defined consequences for rule breaking and use them.
Ben: Ok, so I need a plan.
Uncle Bob: That's a start, but don't just sit around lamenting the situation and planning a response. Once the rules and consequences have been communicated, the main things is to confront problems head-on.
Ben: And if problems continue?
Uncle Bob: Make sure that consequences match the magnitude of the problem.
Ben: And ultimately I need to act in the best interest of my business.
Uncle Bob: Right. And a time may come when it's no longer worth tolerating the problem. Then you'll have to let him go.
Ben: Thanks for the advice.
Uncle Bob: Well, I hope things work out.
Vocabulary Tips:
kernel -果肉的果核。此指“一小部分”。
*I assume there's a kernel of truth in her argument. 有一部分事实。。
kernel - 重要部位。核心。
*the kernel of the company's problem is its insufficient funds.
abide - stay.
abide by - submit to it, follow the rule. 遵行，忍受承受 （遵守+by + 受词）
*Not many people here abide by the traffic rules.
abiding (adj) -遵守的。
*a law-abiding citizen. 一个守法的公民。
*I can't abide that man's rude behavior.忍受，，，那人粗鲁的行为举止。
lament - mourn. 悔恨，哀悼，悲叹，感到叹息。
*Lamenting a past glory won't help you have another breakthrough.
*Our neighbor Mr. wang lamenting the ungratefulness of the young generation. 感到叹息。。不知感谢，不知感恩。。。
magnitude - something big, describe the measurement of the big thing. 重要性，严重性。 'mag' - big.
*Now we're facing a financial crisis of considerable magnitude.
magnitude -等级，强度。（规模）
*The 6.5 magnitude earthquake caused a lot of casualties. 损伤，伤亡。
comfrotatin - comfront, point out, bring out the problem.
head-on - don't go around, be directly, say directly.
best interest - think something for someone, not just yourself.
Language Tips:
let someone go - fire someone from the work. 开除某人，解雇某员工。。
Then you'll have to let him go.
pink slip - fire notification paper. (these days are no longer pink, usually in white.) 解雇单。早期雇主解雇人，就在薪水袋里放一张粉红色的字条，上面写着为何原因被解雇。pink slip 虽然仍延生至今，但是解雇单已经不再用粉红色纸张了。
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
New Employees?
Hiring new employees isn’t as easy as it seems
雇用新員工？
Ben: Sure. How hard can it be to hire a couple of employees?
Uncle Bob: I'm not saying it's hard. But employees can induce big changes in the way your company works.
Ben: How?
Uncle Bob: Well, there are lots of ways. Take costs for example. The cost of an employee goes far beyond pay.
Ben: I guess that's true. I't need to pay for things like benefits and payroll taxes.
Uncle Bob: Thant's right. And there are other indirect costs too. You'll need to buy office furniture, computers and a lot more stationery for your employees to use.
Ben: And parking. I'll need to get more parking spots.
Uncle Bob: Exactly.
Ben: Ok, so there will be some hidden costs, but those won't change the company that much.
Uncle Bob: They will mean huge changes to your job, though.
Ben: Yeah. I hope they'll make my job a lot easier!
Uncle Bob: They might. But remember, employees need to be managed.
Ben: That's true.
Uncle Bob: The time you'll spend doing the things you're used to doing will also diminish, instead you'll spend time overseeing employees.
Ben: I guess that will be a big change.
Uncle Bob: Ultimately, hiring employees is about growth. And good growth is done in a balanced and controlled way.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: For starters, you need to realize that growth can make some things easier, but it also generates problems in other areas.
Ben: I see. You mean hiring employees might make things like accounting and human resources harder.Maybe I should put some more thought into this.
Uncle Bob: That's a good idea. But I'm not saying you can't do it. And hiring employees is a good thing....
Ben: Because if means the company is growing?
Uncle Bob: Exactly! Let's go celebrate your growing company with some coffee.
Ben: You're on !
Grammar Gym:
For starter you need to realize that growth can make some things easier....
"for starters" = first of all.
Traveling overseas takes a lot of preparation; for starters (first of all) you need to save up some money.
There are things you need to do before you go for a job interview; for starters (first of all), make sure your resume is up to date.
Vocabulary Tips:
by leaps and bounds - improve or grow very quickly. 非常迅速，与日俱增。"leap" -越过, "bound" -跳越。跳跃
*After Jack moved to the States, his English improved by leaps and bounds.进步神速。
*Rita's computer skills grew by leaps and bounds.与日俱增
freelancer - provide service or work as needed, but not bound by any company. 自由工作者，兼职者.如作曲家，作词，作家等。
*Nathan used to work in a big advertising company, but now he's a freelancer.
freelance (adj) -自由职业，不受雇于人的。独立工作者。
*Alice decided to go freelance after she got married.
induce - cause to happen.引起，导致。“ duce”- 有‘引导’之意。
*I could not induce her to go mountain climbing with me.
*The treatment might induce side effects such as loss of appetite and hair.
stationery - refer to all office supplies, such as pen, pencil, paper, paper clips ...etc.（集合名词，复数不加“s”, 文具用品。泛指所有办公室里所需的笔。纸，本子，橡皮擦，回纹针。。。。等。
*Many parents bought their kids new stationery before school started.
stationary - firm, not move.固定的。固定不动的。
stationery 文具用品/ stationary固定的 -注意，字根很相近，只差一个字母，但发音不同。stationary 第二重音在“na”。
diminish -it gets smaller, or less.减少，减小。慢慢消失了。
*The threat of war diminished due to the peace talks.
*Gloria's enthusiasm for singing soon diminished after her defeat at the contest.歌唱热情。。 比赛失败
ultimately - at the end of process; in the end, by the end.基本上，总而言之。最后，最终。通常放在句首。
*Ultimately, we'll adapt any means to promote our sales.
ultimate (adj) -at the end. the most important, final goal. .终极，最重要的。
*The ultimate goal of the protest is to fight for higher wages.
generate - to create, to start it, to make something (electricity, happiness, money, ideas..etc.)产生，引发，引起）
'gene' - 有‘生产’之意。
*The campaign generated a lot of interest in our product.
*The project will generate over 1000 new jobs.
human resources - work force, everyone who work there. 人事资源。人事部门。
*Good management of human resources can save a great deal of money for the company.
*I had my first interview with the head of human resources.
how was going yesterday ...would you like to continue?
How do I do that?
hidden cost - the cost or fees are not showing at front.
put some thought into it (into your retirement plan; where you go after you graduated from college; relationship; a good gift for your friend.....etc.)
you're on - let's go. (yes, I go along with you. )
Language Tips:
pay for benefits - 支付福利。
benefit -‘福利“
employee benefits -员工福利。
perks - employee benefits, beside the salary. 除薪资之外的福利奖励与津贴。
perks - short for perquisites.
perks - include fringe benefit.
fringe benefit - 公司提供特殊的奖励如提供一辆车供你使用等。
美国总统享有全世界最优渥的perks or fringe benefit.
------------------------------------------------------------------
oversee/overlook - 看上去相似，但实质意思完全不同。
see / look -看
oversee - supervise. 监督，管理。
....you'll spend time overseeing employees.
overlook - see from a high point or place. 眺望，俯瞰。
overlook - miss the most important part. fail because didn't pay attention on something minor but is the most important part. 忽略，轻忽，看漏了，。
The detective overlooked an important clue. 刑警忽略了。。。
oversight -眺望，俯瞰。但是较常用在“忽略，轻忽”意思上。
Taking notes of Studioclassroom
雇用新員工？
Ben: Sure. How hard can it be to hire a couple of employees?
Uncle Bob: I'm not saying it's hard. But employees can induce big changes in the way your company works.
Ben: How?
Uncle Bob: Well, there are lots of ways. Take costs for example. The cost of an employee goes far beyond pay.
Ben: I guess that's true. I't need to pay for things like benefits and payroll taxes.
Uncle Bob: Thant's right. And there are other indirect costs too. You'll need to buy office furniture, computers and a lot more stationery for your employees to use.
Ben: And parking. I'll need to get more parking spots.
Uncle Bob: Exactly.
Ben: Ok, so there will be some hidden costs, but those won't change the company that much.
Uncle Bob: They will mean huge changes to your job, though.
Ben: Yeah. I hope they'll make my job a lot easier!
Uncle Bob: They might. But remember, employees need to be managed.
Ben: That's true.
Uncle Bob: The time you'll spend doing the things you're used to doing will also diminish, instead you'll spend time overseeing employees.
Ben: I guess that will be a big change.
Uncle Bob: Ultimately, hiring employees is about growth. And good growth is done in a balanced and controlled way.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: For starters, you need to realize that growth can make some things easier, but it also generates problems in other areas.
Ben: I see. You mean hiring employees might make things like accounting and human resources harder.Maybe I should put some more thought into this.
Uncle Bob: That's a good idea. But I'm not saying you can't do it. And hiring employees is a good thing....
Ben: Because if means the company is growing?
Uncle Bob: Exactly! Let's go celebrate your growing company with some coffee.
Ben: You're on !
Grammar Gym:
For starter you need to realize that growth can make some things easier....
"for starters" = first of all.
Traveling overseas takes a lot of preparation; for starters (first of all) you need to save up some money.
There are things you need to do before you go for a job interview; for starters (first of all), make sure your resume is up to date.
Vocabulary Tips:
by leaps and bounds - improve or grow very quickly. 非常迅速，与日俱增。"leap" -越过, "bound" -跳越。跳跃
*After Jack moved to the States, his English improved by leaps and bounds.进步神速。
*Rita's computer skills grew by leaps and bounds.与日俱增
freelancer - provide service or work as needed, but not bound by any company. 自由工作者，兼职者.如作曲家，作词，作家等。
*Nathan used to work in a big advertising company, but now he's a freelancer.
freelance (adj) -自由职业，不受雇于人的。独立工作者。
*Alice decided to go freelance after she got married.
induce - cause to happen.引起，导致。“ duce”- 有‘引导’之意。
*I could not induce her to go mountain climbing with me.
*The treatment might induce side effects such as loss of appetite and hair.
stationery - refer to all office supplies, such as pen, pencil, paper, paper clips ...etc.（集合名词，复数不加“s”, 文具用品。泛指所有办公室里所需的笔。纸，本子，橡皮擦，回纹针。。。。等。
*Many parents bought their kids new stationery before school started.
stationary - firm, not move.固定的。固定不动的。
stationery 文具用品/ stationary固定的 -注意，字根很相近，只差一个字母，但发音不同。stationary 第二重音在“na”。
diminish -it gets smaller, or less.减少，减小。慢慢消失了。
*The threat of war diminished due to the peace talks.
*Gloria's enthusiasm for singing soon diminished after her defeat at the contest.歌唱热情。。 比赛失败
ultimately - at the end of process; in the end, by the end.基本上，总而言之。最后，最终。通常放在句首。
*Ultimately, we'll adapt any means to promote our sales.
ultimate (adj) -at the end. the most important, final goal. .终极，最重要的。
*The ultimate goal of the protest is to fight for higher wages.
generate - to create, to start it, to make something (electricity, happiness, money, ideas..etc.)产生，引发，引起）
'gene' - 有‘生产’之意。
*The campaign generated a lot of interest in our product.
*The project will generate over 1000 new jobs.
human resources - work force, everyone who work there. 人事资源。人事部门。
*Good management of human resources can save a great deal of money for the company.
*I had my first interview with the head of human resources.
how was going yesterday ...would you like to continue?
How do I do that?
hidden cost - the cost or fees are not showing at front.
put some thought into it (into your retirement plan; where you go after you graduated from college; relationship; a good gift for your friend.....etc.)
you're on - let's go. (yes, I go along with you. )
Language Tips:
pay for benefits - 支付福利。
benefit -‘福利“
employee benefits -员工福利。
perks - employee benefits, beside the salary. 除薪资之外的福利奖励与津贴。
perks - short for perquisites.
perks - include fringe benefit.
fringe benefit - 公司提供特殊的奖励如提供一辆车供你使用等。
美国总统享有全世界最优渥的perks or fringe benefit.
------------------------------------------------------------------
oversee/overlook - 看上去相似，但实质意思完全不同。
see / look -看
oversee - supervise. 监督，管理。
....you'll spend time overseeing employees.
overlook - see from a high point or place. 眺望，俯瞰。
overlook - miss the most important part. fail because didn't pay attention on something minor but is the most important part. 忽略，轻忽，看漏了，。
The detective overlooked an important clue. 刑警忽略了。。。
oversight -眺望，俯瞰。但是较常用在“忽略，轻忽”意思上。
Taking notes of Studioclassroom
Saturday, June 15, 2013
DIY Marketing
Doing your own
marketing may not be as hard as you think
DIY行銷 -
It's a good to see you.
Uncle Bob: It's nice to see you too, Ben. Say, I've been wondering how things are going with your business.
Ben: They're going pretty well, but our growth seems to have leveled off.
Uncle Bob: Do you know why?
Ben: Actually, Sandy and I were just talking about doing some marketing research to help figure that off.
Uncle Bob: That sounds expensive!
Ben: I suppose it would be if we hired a marketing firm to do the work. But these days marketing research has never been easier.
Uncle Bob: Do tell.
Ben: Well, the internet has really changed marketing in a lot of ways, especially for small businesses.
Uncle Bob: How has it done that?
Ben: Well, I guess the main thing is that the Internet makes it easier to find and connect with potential customers. We don't want to pay for advertising that nobody reads. The Internet also makes it easier to communicate about your business and collect feedback.
Uncle Bob: Do you planing to do all of your marketing by yourselves?
Ben: And, honestly, it isn't as strange as it might sound.
Uncle Bob: How are you going to run this marketing campaign?
Ben: At this point, we're basically going to follow a three step plan. First, we'll try to connect with our current and potential customers.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to create a mailing list?
Ben: Sort of. At first, we'll probably just use social media like Facebook and Twitter to connect with people we are working with.Then we'll try to use those connections to gather information.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to use surveys or something?
Ben: Questionnaires are a simple and inexpensive way to do market research. We'll probably come up with a short list of questions to ask people or companies we work with. We'll also post stuff in industry-related forums and do online focus groups.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to follow that up with advertising?
Ben: Kind of, We're going to try to create some buzz.
Uncle Bob: What does that involve?
Ben: Buzz is basically just excited interest. We'll create a media kit and try to get some coverage in the local media. Then we're hoping to use our social media and website to spread the word.
Uncle Bob: That sounds very interesting. Let me know how it works out.
Ben: Don't worry, I will.
Grammar Gym:
"Say, I've been wondering how things are going with your business."
"say" - to tell or to speak.
"Please don't say anything."
"say" - there's something important that is about to be said.
**(While you were talking with someone, suddenly you want to find out something, or you want to change the topic quickly.) you may say:
Say, I heard your grandmother was in the hospital last week - how is she doing?
Say, what time is it right now?
Vocabulary Tips:
DIY -Do It Yourself. 。
DIY (adj) -自己动手做
*I'm not good at DIY, I can't understand the instructions if they are complicated.
level off -stop growing, not going up but not going down either, not improve much. 数字趋平缓，持平。'level' -flat.拉平
*The sales figures for the new product leveled off after a few months.持平
*The plane leveled off after a sudden drop.拉平。。从突然的下降
advertising (不可数n) -show the product on media (TV, newspaper, Internet etc.) 广告，广告业。
*Chloe works in a top advertising agency.。。。顶尖的广告公司。
*The advertising campaign successfully promoted our sales.
advertisement =ad. 广告
*The ad in the newspaper worked quite well.
feedback - as a user or customer, tell what you think or feel about the program or the product..回馈，回应，反应。
*We value our customers' feedback very much.
*There's been a lot of positive feedback from our program users.
not be as (something)(easy, hard, difficult etc.) as you (something) (look, think, thought, do etc.)
nice to meet you - say it when you first meet someone only.很高兴见到你。（初次，第一次见面才能用）
nice to see you, nice to see you again - is when you know someone before, and you see them again.很高兴见到你。（对于已认识的人）
has (have) never been something ( easier, happy, feel great, sad, angry )- in the top of status of what feeling.
do tell - is that right and tell me more, do explain more.
connect (v) with - 联系，和某人或某事物联系用“ with”。
*Patrick often connects with his friends on Facebook.
connection (n) - 联系。
*The police found a connection between the suspect and the victim.
mailing list -邮寄名单。
*Greg wants his name to be added to our mailing list.
*We removed Jared's name from our mailing list.
mailing label -邮寄地址的标签。
*All the mailing labels were printed with waterproof ink.
questionnaire - 问卷 调查。调查问卷。
*All employees were requested to fill in a job-satisfaction questionnaire.
*It took me almost 20 minutes to fill out this very detailed questionnaire.详细的问卷调查。
coverage -新闻报导 cover (v)-报导。
*We're watching TV's live coverage of the hurricane.
*Wesley was sent to the Middle East to cover the summit.
conduct a survey - fill out a questionnaire.
come up with - some result or idea created after discussion.
follow up with - have something first than there is something come after.
Language Tips:
OK (adj) - alright, so so.还好。
Are you OK? 你还好吗？
Business is still OK.还可以，还过得去，（不是顶好的）。
OK-"Okay"-不合适用于称赞人，它是个缺乏价值的字。
Okey-dokey : is a nice way to say "OK", .
注意：别人问你对他的发型，衣着感觉如何，你不要说“ok”，那是很 不礼貌的，要说比较有value 价值的话。
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
word - 文字，消息，传言，单字。（word不加s）
word get around - 谣言很易传播，谣言满天飞。谣言四处传播。
get the word out - 把消息传递出去。把消息传开。
spread the word. -传播消息，传布消息。
word -（不可数）
May I have a word with you? -我可以和你聊聊吗？a word 指‘说说话，聊聊“，不是指“一个字或一句话”
You have my word - 保证，允许，答应。
Can you put in a good word for me? 为我多说些美言。
Notes taking of StudioClassroom
DIY行銷 -
It's a good to see you.
Uncle Bob: It's nice to see you too, Ben. Say, I've been wondering how things are going with your business.
Ben: They're going pretty well, but our growth seems to have leveled off.
Uncle Bob: Do you know why?
Ben: Actually, Sandy and I were just talking about doing some marketing research to help figure that off.
Uncle Bob: That sounds expensive!
Ben: I suppose it would be if we hired a marketing firm to do the work. But these days marketing research has never been easier.
Uncle Bob: Do tell.
Ben: Well, the internet has really changed marketing in a lot of ways, especially for small businesses.
Uncle Bob: How has it done that?
Ben: Well, I guess the main thing is that the Internet makes it easier to find and connect with potential customers. We don't want to pay for advertising that nobody reads. The Internet also makes it easier to communicate about your business and collect feedback.
Uncle Bob: Do you planing to do all of your marketing by yourselves?
Ben: And, honestly, it isn't as strange as it might sound.
Uncle Bob: How are you going to run this marketing campaign?
Ben: At this point, we're basically going to follow a three step plan. First, we'll try to connect with our current and potential customers.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to create a mailing list?
Ben: Sort of. At first, we'll probably just use social media like Facebook and Twitter to connect with people we are working with.Then we'll try to use those connections to gather information.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to use surveys or something?
Ben: Questionnaires are a simple and inexpensive way to do market research. We'll probably come up with a short list of questions to ask people or companies we work with. We'll also post stuff in industry-related forums and do online focus groups.
Uncle Bob: Are you going to follow that up with advertising?
Ben: Kind of, We're going to try to create some buzz.
Uncle Bob: What does that involve?
Ben: Buzz is basically just excited interest. We'll create a media kit and try to get some coverage in the local media. Then we're hoping to use our social media and website to spread the word.
Uncle Bob: That sounds very interesting. Let me know how it works out.
Ben: Don't worry, I will.
Grammar Gym:
"Say, I've been wondering how things are going with your business."
"say" - to tell or to speak.
"Please don't say anything."
"say" - there's something important that is about to be said.
**(While you were talking with someone, suddenly you want to find out something, or you want to change the topic quickly.) you may say:
Say, I heard your grandmother was in the hospital last week - how is she doing?
Say, what time is it right now?
Vocabulary Tips:
DIY -Do It Yourself. 。
DIY (adj) -自己动手做
*I'm not good at DIY, I can't understand the instructions if they are complicated.
level off -stop growing, not going up but not going down either, not improve much. 数字趋平缓，持平。'level' -flat.拉平
*The sales figures for the new product leveled off after a few months.持平
*The plane leveled off after a sudden drop.拉平。。从突然的下降
advertising (不可数n) -show the product on media (TV, newspaper, Internet etc.) 广告，广告业。
*Chloe works in a top advertising agency.。。。顶尖的广告公司。
*The advertising campaign successfully promoted our sales.
advertisement =ad. 广告
*The ad in the newspaper worked quite well.
feedback - as a user or customer, tell what you think or feel about the program or the product..回馈，回应，反应。
*We value our customers' feedback very much.
*There's been a lot of positive feedback from our program users.
not be as (something)(easy, hard, difficult etc.) as you (something) (look, think, thought, do etc.)
nice to meet you - say it when you first meet someone only.很高兴见到你。（初次，第一次见面才能用）
nice to see you, nice to see you again - is when you know someone before, and you see them again.很高兴见到你。（对于已认识的人）
has (have) never been something ( easier, happy, feel great, sad, angry )- in the top of status of what feeling.
do tell - is that right and tell me more, do explain more.
connect (v) with - 联系，和某人或某事物联系用“ with”。
*Patrick often connects with his friends on Facebook.
connection (n) - 联系。
*The police found a connection between the suspect and the victim.
mailing list -邮寄名单。
*Greg wants his name to be added to our mailing list.
*We removed Jared's name from our mailing list.
mailing label -邮寄地址的标签。
*All the mailing labels were printed with waterproof ink.
questionnaire - 问卷 调查。调查问卷。
*All employees were requested to fill in a job-satisfaction questionnaire.
*It took me almost 20 minutes to fill out this very detailed questionnaire.详细的问卷调查。
coverage -新闻报导 cover (v)-报导。
*We're watching TV's live coverage of the hurricane.
*Wesley was sent to the Middle East to cover the summit.
conduct a survey - fill out a questionnaire.
come up with - some result or idea created after discussion.
follow up with - have something first than there is something come after.
Language Tips:
OK (adj) - alright, so so.还好。
Are you OK? 你还好吗？
Business is still OK.还可以，还过得去，（不是顶好的）。
OK-"Okay"-不合适用于称赞人，它是个缺乏价值的字。
Okey-dokey : is a nice way to say "OK", .
注意：别人问你对他的发型，衣着感觉如何，你不要说“ok”，那是很 不礼貌的，要说比较有value 价值的话。
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
word - 文字，消息，传言，单字。（word不加s）
word get around - 谣言很易传播，谣言满天飞。谣言四处传播。
get the word out - 把消息传递出去。把消息传开。
spread the word. -传播消息，传布消息。
word -（不可数）
May I have a word with you? -我可以和你聊聊吗？a word 指‘说说话，聊聊“，不是指“一个字或一句话”
You have my word - 保证，允许，答应。
Can you put in a good word for me? 为我多说些美言。
Notes taking of StudioClassroom
Friday, May 17, 2013
Wants and Needs
「想要」不等於「需要」 -
I think it might be beneficial for our working environment.
Uncle Bob: How will it benefit your staff?
Ben: Well, lots of tech companies have amenities in their office, and it seems to be working for them.
Uncle Bob: That doesn't mean that everything can be formulated the same for every company. It sounds to me like you're confusing wants and needs.
Ben: What do you mean? Sometimes they're the same thing.
Uncle Bob: Not really. Needs are things that you really can't do without. Wants are things you would like to have.
Ben: But what's wrong with wanting a game room?
Uncle Bob: There's nothing wrong with wanting a game room. You just need to remember that the things you want aren't always good for you. And that is especially true in business.
Ben: But what about Google? They offer free meals, fitness centers and nap pods.
Uncle Bob: For successful companies, perks like those are offered as part of a carefully crafted business strategy.
How is having great benefits part of a business strategy?
Uncle Bob:Some companies use benefits to recruit high-quality workers. Benefits can also help employees work longer hours and improve workers longevity by keeping staff healthy and happy.
Ben: So how do I know if something, I want is something the company really needs?
Uncle Bob: You just need to set your priorities.
Ben: The game room is pretty high on my list of priorities.
Uncle Bob: I'm talking about prioritizing spending for your business. Every dollar you spend on something you want is a dollar you can't spend on something you might need.
Ben: So my first priority should be getting things that my company needs to survive and grow.
Uncle Bob: Right, And your second priority should be getting things that might benefit you company tangible ways.
Ben: Like investing in a new product or service?
Uncle Bob: Yes. After you've met those needs, you can start thinking about the things you want.
Ben: Like my game room?
Uncle Bob: Exactly. So when do you want me to visit the new office?
Ben: You'd better just come by next week. If you wait for the game room, you'll be in for a lengthy wait.
Uncle Bob: Sure thing, Ben.
Grammar Gym:
"...you'll be in for a lengthy wait."
"to be in for (something) - can expect (something)
Ted knew he was in for a lecture from his mother when he saw his low grades.
When Joe saw the dark clouds in the sky, he knew he was in for some heavy rain.
The audience knew they were in for a treat the minute the magician got on the stage.
I didn't know I was in for a surprise; I thought it was just another regular day at work.
Vocabulary Tips:
amenities -供娱乐，消遣的设备。
*The amenities are available for club members only.
*The workout center is part of the company's amenities.
formulate -用公式表示的，或（照着）复制。
formula (n) -公式
*Not every chain store can be formulated according to the company's plans.
formulate -策划，构想出。
*The movie was formulated by a bunch of college kids.
perk -贴补，额外的待遇。something special, extra benefit.
*A car and a reserved parking space are just a couple of the perks the company offered.
perk -振作，活泼生动有精神起来。
* I perked up after taking a walk. 走路之后，我精神来了。
craft -精心制作。
*The sets for the play were crafted by professionals.
craft -(本文）详细规划。
*The weight loss program is crafted according to one's personal needs.
longevity -长寿。refer to people live for a long years. long years.
*A healthy diet and regular exercise contribute to a person's longevity.
*The invention of vaccines increased human longevity.
prioritize -决定优先顺序，按优先顺序排列。put something important at first place in order.
priority -优先顺序。
*Every day, Stewart will spend a few minutes prioritizing his tasks.任务
prioritize -也指“把某个对象列为优先”。
*The government prioritized the economic growth of the country.
tangible -可以触摸到的，此文指“实质的，真实的”。 tang-接触。can touchable.
*tangible learning materials. 可以实际操作的教材。
*There's no tangible evidence to prove that the suspect is guilty.
lengthy -漫长的，冗长的。long, very long time, a lengthy ride, a lengthy drive. a lengthy wait.
*The professor's lengthy lecture made me feel sleepy.
*The detective wrote a lengthy report about the incident. 洋洋洒洒一长篇报告有关。。。
nap pods - a cozy place where let people to take nap.
you'd better = you had better (to do something).
sure thing - definitely will do it. agree with someone or to do something.
Language Tips:
keep up with the Joneses -比排场，比阔气。 邻居做什么，买什么，有什么，你也跟上去做，去买，去拥有，仿效他们。不愿落后于人。
Joneses - 指你生活周遭与你社会地位相近的邻居们，某些个Jone 先生们（他们爱花钱，爱现的家庭生活方式）
keep up - 不落后。不输人，保持。
--------------------------------------
wants and needs -想要的和需要的
needs -需要的
wants -想要的
wants and needs try use those rules below may help you saving some money and no regret later:
the ten second rule -(10 秒钟法则）小钱，小东西，买前先等上10秒钟，想想需不需要，如果10秒钟过去了，还想买才买它。
the ten days rule -（10天法则）大东西，贵重的，要花大钱的，如汽车，70寸立体电视，最好等上10天，10天之后，你要买的意念还很强，且想好了又有此预算才买它。很多时候，10天之后，你失去了买他们的冲动，没太大的兴趣想要买了。
Taking notes of study "StudioClassroom"
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Financing Your Business
Finding the money you need to keep your business
running
企業籌措資金之道 -
Ben: Well, Uncle Bob, we followed your advice and signed up for a small business program though our local community development association. The crucial challenge now is financing. Obviously, we will fund the company with our savings, but I'm worried that we've underestimated costs and could run out of money.
Uncle Bob: That is a very important issue for small businesses to deal with. After all, under-capitalization is one of the major reasons that small businesses often fail.
Ben: I know. We're looking into small business loans, but the interest rates seem really high. How did you pay for your hardware stores when you first started?
Uncle Bob: To be honest, I didn't actually start the first store. Instead, your Aunt June and I used our savings to buy into an existing business. Later, we bought out our business partner and then expanded the business.
Ben: So you didn't arrange outside financing?
Uncle Bob: Not at first. Like you said, lenders often charge a premium for small business loans because they are so risky. We were warned that the cost of servicing a loan would actually hurt the business.
Ben: I hadn't thought of that.
Uncle Bob: Instead of borrowing right away, we waited until the business was a little better established. Then we borrowed money and used it to expand the business
Ben: How did waiting help?
Uncle Bob: Well, by the time we look out the loan, we had an income stream and a healthy balance sheet to we were less of a risk for lenders.That meant we were able to borrow on better terms.
Ben: So you think we should wait before getting a loan?
Uncle Bob: Practically speaking, most small businesses inevitably go through several rounds of financing as they grow. Like your company, most small businesses are started with seed money from their owner's savings or family members. The businesses aren't usually started with money from a loan.
Ben: How will I know when the time is right to borrow?
Uncle Bob: Once companies are more established, the owners have a lot more choices. They might, for example, get a line of credit, take on a partner or get a loan. If borrowing money will make you money, than it's time to consider it.
Ben: So it's all a matter of timing?
Uncle Bob: That's right. And right now, it's time for lunch.
Ben: Sounds good. Where should we go?
Grammar Tips:
"We're looking into small business loans...."
"to look into " - to investigate.
The mayor promised the widow that he would personally look into the case of her missing child.
The boss is busy and has asked his secretary to look into this matter.
Vocabulary Tips:
buy out - bought out and take over whole shares. 买断，收购。
buy - purchase.
* We decided to buy out the store's whole inventory.
*I'v shares owned by the original owner were bought out by a competitor.
service (n)-服务。
service (v)-支付利息。
*David bought a convertible on impulse, and now 30% of his monthly income goes to service his car loan.
service (v)-维修。
*I had my car serviced last week.
crucial - the partial is very important.重要，（有）决定性的。
* A healthy and nutritious diet is crucial for children.
*Puberty is a crucial stage of life. Parents need to be wise and patient.
undercapitalization -资金不足。
under - below. not enough. lack of.不足，不及。
capitalization -资本额。
*The company suffered from undercapitaliziation from the beginning.
undercapitalize (adj)- lack of money for operating the business.投资不足的。
*The restaurant was severely undercapitalized, so it only stayed in business for three months.
premium - more money added to the loan you borrow, a fee that you need to pay.
"How's ....coming along?" - this idiom use on something is not finish, is still in the process, you would like to know the current status, finding out more or get more information. You may say: " how's ....coming along?"
look into - pay more attention, careful to get more information about something.
buy into - spend money to own partial interest or ownership of a business. or believe what people said it will have growing and benefit potential.
Language Tips:
advice / suggestion : 建议，提议。
advice (不可数 n) - 字尾不能加"s"
suggestion (可数n)-字尾 可加"s"
information (不可数n)-凡不可数n，字尾不加 "s"，若要说几个要用“piece, pieces ” .
advice - use " piece" when you name of how many advice, but no "s" at the end of advice.
three pieces of advice.
three suggestions.
unaccountable noun - more about on concept of something.
accountable noun - show it's quantity of something.
Taking notes of study "Studio Classroom".
企業籌措資金之道 -
Ben: Well, Uncle Bob, we followed your advice and signed up for a small business program though our local community development association. The crucial challenge now is financing. Obviously, we will fund the company with our savings, but I'm worried that we've underestimated costs and could run out of money.
Uncle Bob: That is a very important issue for small businesses to deal with. After all, under-capitalization is one of the major reasons that small businesses often fail.
Ben: I know. We're looking into small business loans, but the interest rates seem really high. How did you pay for your hardware stores when you first started?
Uncle Bob: To be honest, I didn't actually start the first store. Instead, your Aunt June and I used our savings to buy into an existing business. Later, we bought out our business partner and then expanded the business.
Ben: So you didn't arrange outside financing?
Uncle Bob: Not at first. Like you said, lenders often charge a premium for small business loans because they are so risky. We were warned that the cost of servicing a loan would actually hurt the business.
Ben: I hadn't thought of that.
Uncle Bob: Instead of borrowing right away, we waited until the business was a little better established. Then we borrowed money and used it to expand the business
Ben: How did waiting help?
Uncle Bob: Well, by the time we look out the loan, we had an income stream and a healthy balance sheet to we were less of a risk for lenders.That meant we were able to borrow on better terms.
Ben: So you think we should wait before getting a loan?
Uncle Bob: Practically speaking, most small businesses inevitably go through several rounds of financing as they grow. Like your company, most small businesses are started with seed money from their owner's savings or family members. The businesses aren't usually started with money from a loan.
Ben: How will I know when the time is right to borrow?
Uncle Bob: Once companies are more established, the owners have a lot more choices. They might, for example, get a line of credit, take on a partner or get a loan. If borrowing money will make you money, than it's time to consider it.
Ben: So it's all a matter of timing?
Uncle Bob: That's right. And right now, it's time for lunch.
Ben: Sounds good. Where should we go?
Grammar Tips:
"We're looking into small business loans...."
"to look into " - to investigate.
The mayor promised the widow that he would personally look into the case of her missing child.
The boss is busy and has asked his secretary to look into this matter.
Vocabulary Tips:
buy out - bought out and take over whole shares. 买断，收购。
buy - purchase.
* We decided to buy out the store's whole inventory.
*I'v shares owned by the original owner were bought out by a competitor.
service (n)-服务。
service (v)-支付利息。
*David bought a convertible on impulse, and now 30% of his monthly income goes to service his car loan.
service (v)-维修。
*I had my car serviced last week.
crucial - the partial is very important.重要，（有）决定性的。
* A healthy and nutritious diet is crucial for children.
*Puberty is a crucial stage of life. Parents need to be wise and patient.
undercapitalization -资金不足。
under - below. not enough. lack of.不足，不及。
capitalization -资本额。
*The company suffered from undercapitaliziation from the beginning.
undercapitalize (adj)- lack of money for operating the business.投资不足的。
*The restaurant was severely undercapitalized, so it only stayed in business for three months.
premium - more money added to the loan you borrow, a fee that you need to pay.
"How's ....coming along?" - this idiom use on something is not finish, is still in the process, you would like to know the current status, finding out more or get more information. You may say: " how's ....coming along?"
look into - pay more attention, careful to get more information about something.
buy into - spend money to own partial interest or ownership of a business. or believe what people said it will have growing and benefit potential.
Language Tips:
advice / suggestion : 建议，提议。
advice (不可数 n) - 字尾不能加"s"
suggestion (可数n)-字尾 可加"s"
information (不可数n)-凡不可数n，字尾不加 "s"，若要说几个要用“piece, pieces ” .
advice - use " piece" when you name of how many advice, but no "s" at the end of advice.
three pieces of advice.
three suggestions.
unaccountable noun - more about on concept of something.
accountable noun - show it's quantity of something.
Taking notes of study "Studio Classroom".
Saturday, February 2, 2013
A Strong Foundation
Successful businesses are built to grow
事業的穩健基礎 -
Ben: Hi, uncle Bob!
Uncle Bob: Hi, Ben. How's the new business coming along?
Ben: Well, we've finished the business plan, but honestly I have no idea how we're going to make it a reality. There are so many things to do. I don't know how I'll ever get them all done.
Uncle BobYou don't have to do it all yourself, Ben.
Ben: But I don't, who will?
Uncle Bob: It is your company and your responsibility to ensure all the work gets done, but that doesn't mean you have to accomplish everything yourself. The reality is that you want your business to grow, you must hand over responsibility to other people at some point.
Ben: Are you saying I should hire employees?
Uncle Bob: Not exactly. I'm saying that as you build your business you need to build an organization and is processes of operation.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: Well, there are many different aspects to a business, like supply, production, sales and accounting.
Ben:That's exactly my problem!
Uncle Bob: If you were just self-employed, it would be your job to do all those things. As the head of an organization, your business, your job is ultimately to find ways to get those things done - but not do all the work yourself.
Ben: So I don't need to do everything myself; I just need to make sure everything gets done?
Uncle Bob: Exactly. That could mean hiring employees, but it might also mean getting an accountant to help keep the books. Then again, it could mean finding partner companies to outsource certain tasks to.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: I would start by checking out government programs that help small businesses. You should also look at any business incubators in your areas.
Ben: What a business incubator?
Uncle Bob: It's a business or non-profit organization that fosters the development of new companies.
Generally, a business incubator provides things like consulting, office space, administrative assistance and financing to help new companies until they can operate on their own.
Ben: That sounds fantastic!
Uncle Bob: For many companies it is.Be careful though. Some programs charge fees, and incubator firms often seek equity in the companies they help.
Ben: So if I take a firm's help, it will own part of my company?
Uncle Bob: That's the idea. It invests in your company in hopes that your success will turn a profit for them as well.
Ben: I guess there is no free lunch.
Uncle Ben: Except at my house. let's get something to eat.
Ben: That sounds great.
Grammar Gym:
"That's the idea." - you get the point.
A: So if we follow the plan, we'll first hike up the mountain and then eat lunch there.
B: Yes, that's the idea.
A: By participating in the charitable event, sponsors could also get free publicity, right?
B: That's the idea.
Vocabulary Tips:
ensure - make it for sure.保证，确保。 "en" - “有使如何之意” 。
*This mattress can ensure a good night's sleep. (+字句)
*No systems can ensure that every customer's personal information is completely secure. (ensure+ that +字句)
hand over - give it over. 移交，交付。
hand over something to someone. hand over to someone. 给谁用“to ”。
*The boss handed over part of his responsibilities to his younger brother.
hand over -交给某人。
*Ray took out the file and handed it over to his colleague.同事
accounting - （不可数n）会计，会计学。
*There's a job vacancy in our accounting department.
*All the accounting records are filed under ACCT.
accountant -会计师
account-银行账户。账户。
ultimate - 最后，最终。基本的，根本的。来源，基础。终极。
*Ultimate Reality (n)- 上帝。
ultimately -最后地，终极地，终结地。
*No matter what our conclusions are, the boss ultimately is the one who decides.老板是最后拍板决定的人。
*Ultimately, the new version of this smart phone is not that different from the previous one. 基本上。。。
reality - become true.
aspect - ankle, side, direction.方位，角度。。
delegate- give task to others. n.代理人。 v.分派，派遣，指派，分配工作给某人。。
delegacy (n) -代表派遣制，派遣代表，代表团。
outsource -外包，委外生产。signing,giving out to outside the companies.
out -有‘向外“之意。
source -资源。
*The company outsourced their customer service department to a company in India.
*Outsourcing the designs can lower our production cost.
administrative (adj) / administration (n) - in control, making all decisions.行政的，管理的/行政，管理。（重音在mi)
*Frank is not good at administrative jobs.
administer -管理或执行。
*It's not an easy task to administer such a corporation. 管理这样一个公司不是一件容易的事情。
equity -公正，公平。
equity -stock, share, portion of property.股票，股份。
*When George retired, he sold his equity in the company.
*Sam's portfolio includes equities and bonds.投资组合中有股票和债卷。
free lunch -免费的午餐。nothing is free, someone eventually will pay for it.
*There's no such thing as a free lunch in show business. I get to go to Japan for 5 days, but I also have to do a presentation in our branch office.
* Well, there's no such thing as a free lunch.天下无白吃的午餐。
keep the books - accounting and bookkeeping to keep all transactions in record.
consulting - providing help, or giving advice
firm - company, organization.
in hopes that - hoping something will happen.
turn profit - make money.
publicity - 闻名，公布，宣传，广告，当众公开的场面。
incubator - （重音在第一节）孵卵器，细菌培养器，早产婴儿保育器。（投资，培育小企业而对小企业提供各种帮助的公司企业组织团体或人。）
Language Tips:
employee - 雇员。
verb + "ee" = whoever take in or received.
employ -雇用。
verb + "er, or " = whoever give out or provide.
train /trainee/ trainer -训练/接受受训的人/教导训练的人。
exam / examinee / examiner -考试/接受考试的人/监考官。
Watch: Not very verb work this way, for example:
murder -谋杀。
murderer -杀人犯。
but we don't use murder+"ee" for someone has been murdered. We call "victim".
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
non-profit organization - 非营利组织，非营利机构。
profit -利润。
non-profit :非营利，无利润。
charities -charitable organization. 慈善机构。
charity (不可数n)-慈善行为，周济，布施。救济。
charity begins at home -（谚语）慈善从自家开始，要先照顾好家人，再慈善别人。即“修身齐家，博爱天下。”
Taking notes of study "Studio Classroom".
事業的穩健基礎 -
Ben: Hi, uncle Bob!
Uncle Bob: Hi, Ben. How's the new business coming along?
Ben: Well, we've finished the business plan, but honestly I have no idea how we're going to make it a reality. There are so many things to do. I don't know how I'll ever get them all done.
Uncle BobYou don't have to do it all yourself, Ben.
Ben: But I don't, who will?
Uncle Bob: It is your company and your responsibility to ensure all the work gets done, but that doesn't mean you have to accomplish everything yourself. The reality is that you want your business to grow, you must hand over responsibility to other people at some point.
Ben: Are you saying I should hire employees?
Uncle Bob: Not exactly. I'm saying that as you build your business you need to build an organization and is processes of operation.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: Well, there are many different aspects to a business, like supply, production, sales and accounting.
Ben:That's exactly my problem!
Uncle Bob: If you were just self-employed, it would be your job to do all those things. As the head of an organization, your business, your job is ultimately to find ways to get those things done - but not do all the work yourself.
Ben: So I don't need to do everything myself; I just need to make sure everything gets done?
Uncle Bob: Exactly. That could mean hiring employees, but it might also mean getting an accountant to help keep the books. Then again, it could mean finding partner companies to outsource certain tasks to.
Ben: How do I do that?
Uncle Bob: I would start by checking out government programs that help small businesses. You should also look at any business incubators in your areas.
Ben: What a business incubator?
Uncle Bob: It's a business or non-profit organization that fosters the development of new companies.
Generally, a business incubator provides things like consulting, office space, administrative assistance and financing to help new companies until they can operate on their own.
Ben: That sounds fantastic!
Uncle Bob: For many companies it is.Be careful though. Some programs charge fees, and incubator firms often seek equity in the companies they help.
Ben: So if I take a firm's help, it will own part of my company?
Uncle Bob: That's the idea. It invests in your company in hopes that your success will turn a profit for them as well.
Ben: I guess there is no free lunch.
Uncle Ben: Except at my house. let's get something to eat.
Ben: That sounds great.
Grammar Gym:
"That's the idea." - you get the point.
A: So if we follow the plan, we'll first hike up the mountain and then eat lunch there.
B: Yes, that's the idea.
A: By participating in the charitable event, sponsors could also get free publicity, right?
B: That's the idea.
Vocabulary Tips:
ensure - make it for sure.保证，确保。 "en" - “有使如何之意” 。
*This mattress can ensure a good night's sleep. (+字句)
*No systems can ensure that every customer's personal information is completely secure. (ensure+ that +字句)
hand over - give it over. 移交，交付。
hand over something to someone. hand over to someone. 给谁用“to ”。
*The boss handed over part of his responsibilities to his younger brother.
hand over -交给某人。
*Ray took out the file and handed it over to his colleague.同事
accounting - （不可数n）会计，会计学。
*There's a job vacancy in our accounting department.
*All the accounting records are filed under ACCT.
accountant -会计师
account-银行账户。账户。
ultimate - 最后，最终。基本的，根本的。来源，基础。终极。
*Ultimate Reality (n)- 上帝。
ultimately -最后地，终极地，终结地。
*No matter what our conclusions are, the boss ultimately is the one who decides.老板是最后拍板决定的人。
*Ultimately, the new version of this smart phone is not that different from the previous one. 基本上。。。
reality - become true.
aspect - ankle, side, direction.方位，角度。。
delegate- give task to others. n.代理人。 v.分派，派遣，指派，分配工作给某人。。
delegacy (n) -代表派遣制，派遣代表，代表团。
outsource -外包，委外生产。signing,giving out to outside the companies.
out -有‘向外“之意。
source -资源。
*The company outsourced their customer service department to a company in India.
*Outsourcing the designs can lower our production cost.
administrative (adj) / administration (n) - in control, making all decisions.行政的，管理的/行政，管理。（重音在mi)
*Frank is not good at administrative jobs.
administer -管理或执行。
*It's not an easy task to administer such a corporation. 管理这样一个公司不是一件容易的事情。
equity -公正，公平。
equity -stock, share, portion of property.股票，股份。
*When George retired, he sold his equity in the company.
*Sam's portfolio includes equities and bonds.投资组合中有股票和债卷。
free lunch -免费的午餐。nothing is free, someone eventually will pay for it.
*There's no such thing as a free lunch in show business. I get to go to Japan for 5 days, but I also have to do a presentation in our branch office.
* Well, there's no such thing as a free lunch.天下无白吃的午餐。
keep the books - accounting and bookkeeping to keep all transactions in record.
consulting - providing help, or giving advice
firm - company, organization.
in hopes that - hoping something will happen.
turn profit - make money.
publicity - 闻名，公布，宣传，广告，当众公开的场面。
incubator - （重音在第一节）孵卵器，细菌培养器，早产婴儿保育器。（投资，培育小企业而对小企业提供各种帮助的公司企业组织团体或人。）
Language Tips:
employee - 雇员。
verb + "ee" = whoever take in or received.
employ -雇用。
verb + "er, or " = whoever give out or provide.
train /trainee/ trainer -训练/接受受训的人/教导训练的人。
exam / examinee / examiner -考试/接受考试的人/监考官。
Watch: Not very verb work this way, for example:
murder -谋杀。
murderer -杀人犯。
but we don't use murder+"ee" for someone has been murdered. We call "victim".
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
non-profit organization - 非营利组织，非营利机构。
profit -利润。
non-profit :非营利，无利润。
charities -charitable organization. 慈善机构。
charity (不可数n)-慈善行为，周济，布施。救济。
charity begins at home -（谚语）慈善从自家开始，要先照顾好家人，再慈善别人。即“修身齐家，博爱天下。”
Taking notes of study "Studio Classroom".
Friday, January 18, 2013
Getting Started
Things to
think about before starting your own business
創業面面觀 -
Ben and Sandy Johnson have been talking about starting a business. But before they take the plunge, Ben decides to talk to his mentor, Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Hey, Ben, how are things going?
Ben: Pretty well, Uncle Bob. Sandy and I are talking about starting a business, and worthwhile things I've ever done. What do you think?
Uncle Bob: I think that's great! Starting a business is one of the most challenging. What kind of business are you interested in starting?
Ben: Well, I've been thinking about setting up a little company that makes smartphone apps. But we're not sure I really don't know anything about starting a business.
Uncle Bob: It sounds like a business plan world be very advantageous for you.
Ben: But I have a business plan I just told you. I'm going to make apps!
Uncle Bob: No, no, Ben. That's a business idea. A business plan is very different.
Ben: How is a business plan different from a business idea?
Uncle Bob: Well, a business plan is a written document that lays out a lot of specific information about your business.
Ben: You mean like a description of one's products?
Uncle Bob: It includes that, but there's more to it. A business plan should be a strategic outline of what your are going to do, why and how you are going to do it.
Ben: I guess making a business plan would help me think through. I'm more worried about the financial aspects of starting a business, though. It can take a long time to make a business profitable. How will I keep the lights on?
Uncle Bob: Your business plan should help you with that in a couple of ways. First it should predict what your operational costs will be and how many sales you need to make your company profitable.
Ben: That would be a good indicator of how viable my business idea is.
Uncle Bob: Right, you will need a business plan if you are going to attract investors, get business loans or even government grants.
Ben: All right, but how do I go about writing a business plan ?
Uncle Bob: There are plenty of online resources to help you. Most libraries also have books that walk you through.
Ben: So If I write a business plan, what do you think the outlook for my business will be?
Uncle Bob: A good business plan will answer that question far better than I can Ben. Let's get some more coffee.
Ben: That sounds good!
Grammar Gym:
.....how to I go about writing a business plan?
" how to I go about + Ving +object.
If you don't know how to do something in detail, you can use this sentence pattern.
*How do I go about getting information for this report?
*How do I go about applying for this position?
Vocabulary Tips:
worthwhile - worth spending time to do it. while is refer to time, worth- has some value to it.值得做的。值得花费时间或金钱下去。
(It is worthwhile to exercise that very advantageous to you.)
*All the hard work proved worthwhile when we won the case.
worth - cost, value. 值多少价值。
* The watch is worth $2,000 dollars.
advantageous (adj) - advantage, benefit. 有利的，有益的，有帮助的。重音在 "ta"。
( When you travel, the map is very advantageous to you.)
*It is advantageous to do market research before developing a new product.
document - written paper, but more official written info involves. 文件，公文。
* The documents related to this case were categorized as "Classified". 列为机密文件，（档案）。
*Tina sorted all her documents in alphabetical order.
strategic (adj) - a strategy way to play or to do. 策略性的。策略的。战略上的。 重音在 "te"
* The strategic market planning proved to be very efficient.
strategic -战略上的。
* This island's strategic position make it well know around the world. 。。有战略上的位置而闻名全球。
How are things going on ?= What have you up to lately?= How are you doing?
sup = What's up? =What are you going on lately?=How are things going on ?
how is (are) something different from something?
（How is orange different from tangerine?）
lay out - give out.
written plan - write it down what do you want to do or plan to do.
aspect - a part or an ankle where you can view. 角度，方面。aspe 有“看”的意思
* When you design a new car, you always have to consider the safety aspect.考虑安全方面。
* You can look at the painting from different aspects.从不同角度来看这幅画。
viable - may apply可 适用， 可行的，可实施的。.
* The old pay roll system is no longer viable.
viable - 若是要说那方面可行，在viable前面加上副词。
*The health program is no longer financially viable.
think though - think over and over.
profitable -able to have revenue after deducted all costs.
grants (n)- money or fund for aid. 补助金，补助款。
Government grants - a specific fund set aside by Government to help people in special purpose.
*The project receives grants from various foundations.-
grant (v) - to give, to provide, to approve.给与，准许，准予。
* My boss granted my request for an extended leave without pay.
outlook - expectation of future.前景，展望。
* The general outlook for our company is better than our competitors.
*The economic outlook of this country is bleak. 暗淡。
keep the lights on - have to have enough electric for lights to keep on, not end of it. It means "to have money to run the business."
investor (n) /investment (n) /invest (v):
investor- someone who is investing.
investment - money or asset or knowledge or health... that you put time, money, energy to work and expect a better return.
invest -put something to work.
walk through -step by step explain to you, carefully and slowly to help you finish the task.
Language Tips:
take the plunge - 跳入水中。决心一试。（站在海边的峭壁上一跃而下。下定决心，大胆尝试，如婚姻，事业，投资，参加竞选等。）
plunge -由高处向下快速衝跳。
look before you leap - 向下跳之前先做评估。深思熟虑以后再做。
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
company /organization/ Association/ corporation....公司行号。都是集合名词对公司行号的称呼。。。
collective nouns -集合名词。
it/they - 代表全体的一个时 it ，用/ 代表整体时用they.
it - (U.S.A.) 美式用法，或是在美国大多是用单数来表示。。
they - (England )英式用法，或是在英国大多是用多数，复数表示
創業面面觀 -
Ben and Sandy Johnson have been talking about starting a business. But before they take the plunge, Ben decides to talk to his mentor, Uncle Bob.
Uncle Bob: Hey, Ben, how are things going?
Ben: Pretty well, Uncle Bob. Sandy and I are talking about starting a business, and worthwhile things I've ever done. What do you think?
Uncle Bob: I think that's great! Starting a business is one of the most challenging. What kind of business are you interested in starting?
Ben: Well, I've been thinking about setting up a little company that makes smartphone apps. But we're not sure I really don't know anything about starting a business.
Uncle Bob: It sounds like a business plan world be very advantageous for you.
Ben: But I have a business plan I just told you. I'm going to make apps!
Uncle Bob: No, no, Ben. That's a business idea. A business plan is very different.
Ben: How is a business plan different from a business idea?
Uncle Bob: Well, a business plan is a written document that lays out a lot of specific information about your business.
Ben: You mean like a description of one's products?
Uncle Bob: It includes that, but there's more to it. A business plan should be a strategic outline of what your are going to do, why and how you are going to do it.
Ben: I guess making a business plan would help me think through. I'm more worried about the financial aspects of starting a business, though. It can take a long time to make a business profitable. How will I keep the lights on?
Uncle Bob: Your business plan should help you with that in a couple of ways. First it should predict what your operational costs will be and how many sales you need to make your company profitable.
Ben: That would be a good indicator of how viable my business idea is.
Uncle Bob: Right, you will need a business plan if you are going to attract investors, get business loans or even government grants.
Ben: All right, but how do I go about writing a business plan ?
Uncle Bob: There are plenty of online resources to help you. Most libraries also have books that walk you through.
Ben: So If I write a business plan, what do you think the outlook for my business will be?
Uncle Bob: A good business plan will answer that question far better than I can Ben. Let's get some more coffee.
Ben: That sounds good!
Grammar Gym:
.....how to I go about writing a business plan?
" how to I go about + Ving +object.
If you don't know how to do something in detail, you can use this sentence pattern.
*How do I go about getting information for this report?
*How do I go about applying for this position?
Vocabulary Tips:
worthwhile - worth spending time to do it. while is refer to time, worth- has some value to it.值得做的。值得花费时间或金钱下去。
(It is worthwhile to exercise that very advantageous to you.)
*All the hard work proved worthwhile when we won the case.
worth - cost, value. 值多少价值。
* The watch is worth $2,000 dollars.
advantageous (adj) - advantage, benefit. 有利的，有益的，有帮助的。重音在 "ta"。
( When you travel, the map is very advantageous to you.)
*It is advantageous to do market research before developing a new product.
document - written paper, but more official written info involves. 文件，公文。
* The documents related to this case were categorized as "Classified". 列为机密文件，（档案）。
*Tina sorted all her documents in alphabetical order.
strategic (adj) - a strategy way to play or to do. 策略性的。策略的。战略上的。 重音在 "te"
* The strategic market planning proved to be very efficient.
strategic -战略上的。
* This island's strategic position make it well know around the world. 。。有战略上的位置而闻名全球。
How are things going on ?= What have you up to lately?= How are you doing?
sup = What's up? =What are you going on lately?=How are things going on ?
how is (are) something different from something?
（How is orange different from tangerine?）
lay out - give out.
written plan - write it down what do you want to do or plan to do.
aspect - a part or an ankle where you can view. 角度，方面。aspe 有“看”的意思
* When you design a new car, you always have to consider the safety aspect.考虑安全方面。
* You can look at the painting from different aspects.从不同角度来看这幅画。
viable - may apply可 适用， 可行的，可实施的。.
* The old pay roll system is no longer viable.
viable - 若是要说那方面可行，在viable前面加上副词。
*The health program is no longer financially viable.
think though - think over and over.
profitable -able to have revenue after deducted all costs.
grants (n)- money or fund for aid. 补助金，补助款。
Government grants - a specific fund set aside by Government to help people in special purpose.
*The project receives grants from various foundations.-
grant (v) - to give, to provide, to approve.给与，准许，准予。
* My boss granted my request for an extended leave without pay.
outlook - expectation of future.前景，展望。
* The general outlook for our company is better than our competitors.
*The economic outlook of this country is bleak. 暗淡。
keep the lights on - have to have enough electric for lights to keep on, not end of it. It means "to have money to run the business."
investor (n) /investment (n) /invest (v):
investor- someone who is investing.
investment - money or asset or knowledge or health... that you put time, money, energy to work and expect a better return.
invest -put something to work.
walk through -step by step explain to you, carefully and slowly to help you finish the task.
Language Tips:
take the plunge - 跳入水中。决心一试。（站在海边的峭壁上一跃而下。下定决心，大胆尝试，如婚姻，事业，投资，参加竞选等。）
plunge -由高处向下快速衝跳。
look before you leap - 向下跳之前先做评估。深思熟虑以后再做。
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
company /organization/ Association/ corporation....公司行号。都是集合名词对公司行号的称呼。。。
collective nouns -集合名词。
it/they - 代表全体的一个时 it ，用/ 代表整体时用they.
it - (U.S.A.) 美式用法，或是在美国大多是用单数来表示。。
they - (England )英式用法，或是在英国大多是用多数，复数表示
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