Business English: Networking

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/business-english-intro

Introduction

### Course Review: Business English: Networking on Coursera **Overview** In today's globalized professional landscape, effective communication is paramount. For non-native English speakers, mastering business English, particularly in networking scenarios, can be a game-changer. Enter *Business English: Networking*, a thoughtfully crafted course available on Coursera that aims to enhance your proficiency in professional English communication. This course offers a structured approach to understanding the nuances of networking in a business context, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to advance their career or strengthen professional relationships. **Course Structure** The course starts with a welcome message and an overview of what to expect, ensuring that participants feel oriented and focused from the outset. A proficiency test follows, allowing you to gauge whether the course aligns with your current skills and needs. This tailored approach is a significant plus, as it makes the learning experience more personalized. The syllabus is divided into five weeks, each focusing on different aspects of business English networking: 1. **Introduction to Business English Communication**: The first week kicks off with fundamental vocabulary and phrases for self-introduction. Participants learn how to present themselves and their professional roles effectively—a crucial skill when mingling at networking events. 2. **Introductions**: The second week builds on these foundations by expanding your vocabulary to articulate the nature of your company. Even if you're not currently employed, understanding how to describe a business is invaluable for networking. 3. **Emails**: In the third week, the course shifts to a key area of professional communication: writing effective emails. You’ll learn best practices for email etiquette that can help you make a strong impression on business contacts. 4. **Meeting Arrangements on the Telephone**: Week four focuses on the art of telephonic communication—specifically, making arrangements for meetings over the phone. This module equips you with the skills necessary to navigate conversations smoothly and schedule important discussions. 5. **Meeting Arrangements (Email)**: Finally, the last week revisits email communication, this time emphasizing how to handle arrangements, changes, and updates. It also includes practical tips and exercises for texting, adapting to the more casual and immediate forms of communication we often encounter today. **Learning Objectives** - Develop a solid foundation in vocabulary and phrases essential for networking in business contexts. - Enhance your confidence in introducing yourself and discussing your professional background. - Master the art of writing professional emails that convey clarity and professionalism. - Gain practical skills for arranging meetings via phone and email, which are critical for effective networking. **Recommendation** I highly recommend the *Business English: Networking* course for anyone looking to refine their business communication skills in English. Whether you're a recent graduate, an experienced professional, or someone who simply wants to improve their networking abilities, this course provides a comprehensive and approachable pathway to achieving your goals. One of the standout features of this course is its pragmatic approach. The exercises and examples are relevant and directly applicable to real-world scenarios, making it easy to transfer your new skills into your everyday professional life. Additionally, Coursera's platform allows for flexible learning, accommodating the schedules of busy professionals. In conclusion, *Business English: Networking* is an invaluable resource that not only enhances your language skills but also builds your confidence in navigating the complexities of networking in the business world. Enroll today and take the first step toward becoming a more effective communicator in your professional journey!

Syllabus

Introduction to Business English Communication

In the first week, you’ll practice introducing yourself and learn some new vocabulary to talk about what you do in your job.

In Week 2, you’ll study vocabulary to describe your company (or any company - you don’t have to be working right now to take this course!).

In week 3, we will introduce you to writing professional emails.

Week 4 is all about telephoning and making arrangements to meet.

In Week 5, we return to email to talk about arrangements, make changes, and update. This last week includes some practice with texting too.