Some People Have Real Difficulty With Public Speaking but Have No Choice!

I salute those that are striving to improve their public speaking and presentation skills. It’s not always an easy thing to do, especially if one was born introverted, with a learning challenge of some kind, is not a native speaker of the working language or simply was never used to or trained in how to […]

How to Deal With Classic Chinese Negotiating Tactics | chinafilmbiz 中国电影业务

How to Deal With Classic Chinese Negotiating Tactics | chinafilmbiz 中国电影业务 By Robert Cain for China Film Biz September 3, 2012 While preparing recently for negotiations with a Chinese distributor that wants to acquire a film I’m producing, I found myself nodding in agreement with advice offered by attorney Steve Dickinson in an article he […]

Beware of Your Body Language in International Business

Beware of Your Body Language in International Business “Beware of Your Body Language in International Business”  – Business without Borders, Globe & Mail, July 31st, 2012 – Communication Coach & Body Language Expert Ric Phillips is interviewed to discuss body language and gestures for Westerners to be aware of while doing business overseas.  We specifically […]

ELC Study Zone: Adjective Order

ELC Study Zone: Adjective Order Introduction In English, it is common to use more than one adjective before a noun — for example, “He’s a silly young fool,” or “She’s a smart, energetic woman.” When you use more than one adjective, you have to put them in the right order, according to type. This page […]

My Way – Using ‘Way’ in Expressions and Idioms

In my/the way – someone or something is blocking your path, usually a physical obstacle. “Your car is in my way.  Can you please move it so I can get out?” My way – my style, according to my thoughts and plans. “Frank Sinatra sang a very famous song where he talks about his life […]

20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes

20 Common Grammar Mistakes That (Almost) Everyone Makes Column by Jon Gingerich January 31, 2012 I’ve edited a monthly magazine for more than six years, and it’s a job that’s come with more frustration than reward. If there’s one thing I am grateful for — and it sure isn’t the pay — it’s that my […]

A Great Post on Defining A Business English Program

Author Paul Emmerson reflects on in-work and pre-experience Business English. What is Business English? A naïve question to be sure, but a good one to step back and ask from time to time. Below, in blue, is a nine-point answer to that question that I wrote along with my colleague Nick Hamilton back in 2000. […]