How to succeed in business

“Good morning, Miss Stepleton I’m sorry to keep you waiting. The problem

is I’m leaving for Chicago in half an hour, and I must give instructions to everyone.

I have invited you to say that our company is recruiting you for a probation period

of two months. If we are satisfied with your work you will become our permanent

employee and your salary will be higher. Your job will involve BTL marketing. Do

you know what it is?”

“Yes, this is the opposite to ATL that is above the line marketing or classic

marketing such as printed advertisements or trade show activities. BTL is Below

The Line marketing. It refers to any non media advertising and promotion such as

exhibitions, mail shots, point of sale or street marketing, sponsorship. Below the

line is viral and non mainline advertising and marketing communications”.

“Good, I’m glad you know all that. Unfortunately I have no time to explain

what your responsibilities are, but you can find all necessary information in the

computer. Please read the guidelines of the company too.” He opened the drawer of

his desk and took out four thick files. “We are currently working on four projects.

Familiarize yourself with these documents. Pay special attention to tender

documents. If you have any questions, ask Silvia. I’ll also be in touch. Now let’s go

I’ll introduce you to your colleagues.”

Mr. Robinson introduced her to the employees of the marketing department.

“This is my new personal assistant Miss Diana Stepleton. Can we call you

Diana?”

“Sure!” Diana heard that Americans preferred first name terms.

“She graduated from Cambridge University with honors. Although she is so

young she has had some experience in BTL projects. I hope I’ve made the right

choice and Diana will fit in.”

Mr. Robinson continued his monologue while Diana was standing there

awkwardly, studying the group. They were young, successful and affluent. The

dress code was strict. Dark gray or navy wool suits, white or blue cotton button

downs and silk ties. Neatness was mandatory. There were several young ladies who

were studying her with great interest.

“Silvia will give Miss Stepleton a tour of our offices, so you will have a

chance to chat with her later. I’ll ask you to be on your best behavior.” Diana shook

hands with each of them and followed Mr. Robinson to his office.

“I understand”, said Diana to Silvia, “that in the absence of Mr. Robinson

you are the boss here?”

“Of course not, but you must understand that at higher levels a secretary

possesses a very considerable knowledge of the organization, its objectives and lines

of communication. Come, I’ll show you round.”

The offices were impressive. The premises seemed crowded because no one

but the director had a private office. The whole floor was divided into cubicles,

where employees were working at their desks.

“Where is my workplace?” asked Diana.

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LESSON 7. THE FIRST DAY AT WORK

LESSON 1. INTRODUCING ONESELF

“Over there, next to a glass enclosed sitting area. There is a computer, a

scanner and a printer on your desk. You will also find a supply of stationery in the

drawers. The copiers are in the cubicle next to the coffee machine. A veritable

convenience store of soft drinks, chocolates and other snacks, all free, draws our

employees. If you want to find somebody, look for him there. The ladies room is

round the corner, at the end of the corridor. Now, Diana, put the files on your desk

and go downstairs to the HR department to sign the contract. Welcome to our

company.”

Speaking

Exercise 1. Answer the questions.

1. Was the call a surprise for Diana? Did she expect it?

2. Who met Diana when she came? Describe their meeting.

3. What do you think of Silvia? Describe her appearance.

4. What was Mr. Robinson doing when Diana came into his office? Describe

his office.

5. Why did Mr. Robinson invite Diana?

6. What is BTL marketing?

7. What is ATL marketing?

8. What were Diana’s responsibilities?

9. What were Diana’s first impressions of her new colleagues?

10. Is a secretary an important position?

11. Did everybody in Commodities United Ltd have a private office?

Describe the offices.

12. What was Diana’s working place like?

Exercise 2. Retell the text.

Exercise 3. Describe the office you would like to work in. Use the words

from the text.

Unit 3

Listening

Listen to the recording and fill in the gaps with the following words and

expressions:

sexual harassment,

a healthy work environment,

behavior,

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HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS

have fun and enjoy going to work,

be hurtful or offensive,

practical jokes,

personal goals,

show dedication,

treat them with dignity and respect.

It is important for employees to ___________ each day, however

professionals should remain productive and focus on achieving their professional

and __________.

The extreme ______, flirtation, gossip, flattery and ___________ can be

offensive and distracting. To maintain __________________ in the office

professionals must follow a few simple guidelines:

- respect fellow employees, ____________________, avoid office gossip;

- ______________: work hard and be a team player;

- Joke with care, avoid jokes that can ______________ to colleagues;

- Learn office guidelines – what can be flirting to you could be

________________ to someone else.