1
Training
C
Use the examples in “A” and “B” to talk about writing emails in English. • What are the most important components of an email? • Discuss different ways of beginning and ending emails. Are they formal or informal? • What do you know about the difference between British and American email-writing conventions?
D
Write an email asking for more information about a professional training course. • Write to Sarah Johnson, the course coordinator. Start your email with a proper greeting. • Say which course you are interested in. • Find out about the following: costs, maximum number of participants, registration, venue and times, and payment methods. • End your email with a proper closing.
E
Swap with a partner and give each other constructive feedback.
4 The need for training
A
Match the definitions on the right to the words on the left.
g 1. to ensure
B
a. to change
2. retention
b. the ability to keep good employees
3. to leverage
c. to exceed, to be better than
4. benefits package
d. to use to get a result
5. enticement
e. ending the employment of a worker
6. to shift
f. incentives (non-salary)
7. layoff
g. to make sure
8. to surpass
h. to attract someone by offering something pleasant
Read this text about the need for training. Does this apply to your company, too?
The need for training Many companies have tried over the past few years to maintain their businesses with a reduced workforce. Having fewer employees increases the pressure to ensure that workers are capable of dealing with increased workload or with fewer resources. The need for employee development programmes is therefore just as important. Technological advancements and employee retention influence the way that companies leverage learning. A strong economy with low unemployment rates means qualified employees can take their pick of the best companies with the most appealing benefits packages and salary rates. A variety of enticements, including training opportunities on company time, are necessary to attract good people. In a weaker economy the basis for the need for training shifts. In an attempt to survive layoffs, employees are concerned not only with keeping themselves up-to-date and employable, but also about staying employed.
10 ten
DO01_3-12-501673_006_011_SB_U1_RZ.indd 10
27.07.17 12:50
