Repeat Favourite Phrases to Improve Conversation

One of the things to remember when you are looking to improve conversation skills, especially if you are using English as a second language and you really want to speak English better, is that English is just one part of language, and language is just one part of communication. A quick way to build rapport […]

Key Interpersonal Skills Help When Travelling Abroad

Here’s a story from my business trip in 2008 to Moscow, Russia, where I trained managers at an oil services company in Western business communication and English language skills.  The story does not take place in the office, but rather during my free time. I coach and train relationship building techniques, like the art of […]

Are You Coming or Going? (Exploring Related Phrasal Verbs)

COMING OR GOING? 1. a)  to come across = to find by chance                                    I came across a beautiful antique vase in a 2nd hand shop in Kensington Market. 1. b)  to come across = to appear He comes across as reserved, but actually he’s very outgoing once you get to know him. 2. […]

Why I Don’t Make New Year Resolutions (and Why You Shouldn’t Either)

As the New Year approaches it is quite normal for us all to think introspectively and then talk about what our exciting resolutions will be, to ensure we start this year off on the right foot (not like last year). We hear the reporters interviewing folks on the street, and we read the bloggers giving […]

Shame, Shameless and Shameful

Let’s look at the root word ‘shame’ and explore its common uses. Shame = sad feeling, guilt, or embarrassment. I’m ashamed (of you/us/myself) = I’m embarrassed and perhaps dishonored. “I’m ashamed to admit that it was me who stole the winning lotto ticket from you.” Shame on you!  = Scolding another person for a shameful […]

TTC Gets an A for Effort on ‘Personal Car’ April 1st Video

Many companies and celebrities had fun with this year’s April Fool’s Day, including the TTC – Toronto Transit Commission.  I watched the above video, knowing it was a gag, and felt smug knowing I don’t break any social rules while in transit.  I see plenty of people who do.  I hate their actions.  I don’t […]

Why Teaching Idioms (Slang, Expressions) is Important in Business English

Like many of you I have a profile on the networking site LinkedIn. (You can find me at http://www.linkedin.com/in/communicationcoach )  One of the benefits of LinkedIn is becoming a member of a group related to our fields or interests.  I subscribe to a number of groups, and sometimes feel compelled to add my two cents […]

Short Video Highlights 3V Coaching & Training Options

Learn about Ric Phillips and 3V Communications coaching, including body language. Options for communication coaching/training include interpersonal/professional communication skills, public speaking, presentations, body language, business ESL, etc. We help you communicate clearly and confidently. Please enjoy this short video that highlights key aspects of our communication coaching and training.  Thank you!