Page 27 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Chapter 2

Observe, Observe,

and Then Observe

Some More

You are employed in your position because you are talented in that
field of endeavor. You may have come to work in the United States
for a span of time because you are skilled at what you do and valu-
able enough to represent your country, your company, and yourself.
Your time in the United States will be more productive if you observe
everything you see, listen to everything you hear, and ask questions
whenever you need to have more information.
What are you observing and how can it best help you? As Sherlock
Holmes said to Dr. Watson upon Watson missing a clue in “A Scandal
in Bohemia,” “You see, but you do not observe. The distinction is
clear.”
When entering a facility, observe the premises carefully. It will
give you clues about the work environment. Look at the parking area,
the lobby, the security arrangements, and the reception area, if there
is one. Are there private offices and cubicles, or just one large open
space? If you enter someone’s work space—whether office, cubicle,
or desk area—notice the items important to that person, such as

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