Page 21 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

The Global Workforce

your strengths and weaknesses truthfully. It is in your best interest to
be assertive and ask for help.
If you create a more formal relationship with a mentor(s):

• Agree on a schedule of meeting times and stick to it.
• Don’t rely totally on mentor input; do your own research
(Internet, company website, manuals, and newsletters) and
share your findings with the mentor(s).
• Consider what you have to offer to the mentor(s) in the way
of your knowledge or experience or ideas (e.g., information
about customs, taboos, or business protocols in other
countries, or your own technological expertise).

Once you get the ball rolling, you and your mentor(s), whether
formal or informal, will establish a rapport and develop a mutually
beneficial relationship. If you are in the United States for an extended
period of time, you may even change hats and become a mentor to
another new arrival.

Phrases for Finding a Mentor or
Obtaining General Help

Does the company offer a mentoring program?
Do you know how I can find a mentor?
Do you have a mentor in the company?

Whom do you consider a leader in the company? Does he or
she mentor anyone?

Could you recommend someone I might be able to help in a
reciprocal relationship? I could offer information about my
country’s culture, market, taboos, and business practices.

Can I shadow that position?

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