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Introduction to Business English

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Final Test (60 minutes)

I. Reading Comprehension (2 marks: 0.4m x 5)


Topic: Lean Production, Digitals, Workplace, Worktime.

II. Filling a paragraph with given words (2 marks: 0.25m x 8)


Topic: Recruitment, Product Life Cycle (Introduction Stage), Shopping and Environmental Issues.

III. Matching word with its definition ( 3 marks: 0.3m x 10)


Study all the words of 3 Chapters (Management/ Production/ Marketing) on Quizlet.
https://quizlet.com/join/hXPx2kaQY

IV. Writing an Email (3 marks)


A. Email for job application (Formula 2, 3) / (= Cover Letter: Formula 1)
B. Email of Suggestion to improve Service’s Quality (Formula 4)
C. Email of Interview feedback (Formula 5)

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Writing a short email
5 main parts:

1. To/From
2. Subject
3. Salutation/ Greeting
4. Body of Message
5. Signature

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Greeting - Signature
Formal Semi-formal
Greeting Signature
If you know the Dear Mr. / Mrs. + (B.E) Yours sincerely, All the best,
name surname, (A.E) Sincerely yours, Thank you,
Sincerely,
Kindest regards,
If you don’t Dear Hiring Manager, (B.E) Yours faithfully, Best regards,
know the name Dear Sir/ Madam, (A.E) Yours truly, Warm regards
Respectfully (yours),
(To whom may it Truthfully,
concern,)

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What is the purpose of the mail? Is it formal of informal?

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What is the purpose of the mail? Is it formal of informal?

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A. Write a cover letter (or an email for job
application)
What is a cover letter?

- A cover letter, also known as an application letter that explains your


interest in the job and company as well as your fitness for the role. This
letter should highlights your skills, experience and achievements in relation
to the position you’re applying for.

- A well-written cover letter has the potential to impress employers and set you
apart from other applicants. To avoid a generic cover letter, you should
conduct in-depth research on company and role for which you’re applying
to before writing your cover letter.

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Structure of a cover letter
A cover letter should be formatted like a business letter and include the
following sections:
1. Header with date& contact information
2. Salutation or greeting
3. Opening paragraph
4. Body/ Middle paragraph(s)
5. Conclusion/ Closing paragraph
6. Letter ending and signature

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Notes on Cover Letter
 Don’t repeat everything you include in your CV/ resume.
 Don’t be too modest. Yes, you are good at what you do. So let them
know.
But be honest because what you write must match with what you will
answer in the interview.
 Remember to reread your cover letter before submitting it. Just like
you don’t want mistake on your resume.
 Keep your cover letter to no more than one page, between 250-400
words. Just stick to the information that is most relevant for this
role.

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A cover letter –
An Example
1. Header with date& contact
information
2. Salutation or greeting
3. Opening paragraph
4. Body/ Middle paragraph(s)
5. Conclusion/ Closing paragraph
6. Letter ending and signature

Signature
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YOUR NAME
A cover letter – Phone | Email | Location (City, State, ZIP)
Online Portfolio/Professional Website (Optional)
Formula 1
*This should mirror the contact information in your resume. A cover letter and resume are part of the same package of application materials—they
should complement each other.

[Date]

[Name of employer]
[Mailing address of employer]

Dear [Hiring manager's name],


[Greet the hiring manager and state your name as well as the position you're applying for. These second and third sentences can mention how
you found the position and express enthusiasm for the job. You can also mention if you heard about the position from a friend or if a colleague
referred you.]
[This first sentence in your second paragraph can introduce the skills you've gained from educational courses, volunteer experience or
extracurricular activities. You can feature examples of these specific skills and tie together how you can apply them to this job position during
these next few sentences. Mention any other related achievements or awards and how they may benefit the company.]
[Your next paragraph can explain why you're the best candidate for the role. Mention any details you noticed on their website that you believe
reflect your passion or motivations. You can also explain your dedication to learning more about the role and you're willingness to develop new
skills in the position.]
[In your closing paragraph, explain your excitement for the role one last time. Thank the employer for their time and request an interview.
Mention that you look forward to hearing from them soon.]
Sincerely,
[Your signature]
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How to write an email for job application – Formula 2
1. Include a greeting
Greetings example:
• In your research, try to find the name
of the person reviewing applications Dear Hiring Manager,
for the job.
• Address your letter to this person with (Dear Ms. Tyler Wallace,)
a common business greeting, such
as "Dear [first and last name]"
or "Dear [position title]."
• Avoid using "To whom it may
concern."

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2. Write an opening paragraph Opening paragraph example:

• In the first paragraph, mention the job My name is Maria Mattea, and I'm writing to
title you're applying for and where you express my excitement about the internship
saw the position posting.
• Explain your interest in the role and
position with SocialSisterSites, Inc. I am
company to show you've done your currently a junior at Ramsey University
research. studying communications with a projected
• You can also mention if you heard about the graduation date of May 2024. I love your
position from a friend or if a colleague company's mission of providing educational
referred you
information for individuals on safe social
media habits. Your social sites are highly
engaging and I'd love to learn more about
the processes that contribute to creating
and distributing this content.

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3. Add a second paragraph Second paragraph example:
• This first sentence in your second paragraph
can introduce the skills you've gained from I've taken several communications classes on
educational courses, volunteer experience or social media content, marketing and
extracurricular activities. consumer outreach to learn more about this
• You can feature examples of these specific area. One project I created last year was
skills and tie together how you can apply them writing a series of email communications to
to this job position during these next few mock customers and companies, establishing
sentences.
engagement goals and metrics to measure
• Mention any other related achievements or
awards and how they may benefit the
the success of our efforts. One of my favorite
company essays I wrote focused on the effect of
infographics on consumers and spending
habits. I think this internship can provide me
with even more context for how corporate
environments apply the information I've
learned through my coursework to business.
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Closing paragraph example:
I hope to pursue a career in social media
management and marketing leadership and I
4. Finish with a closing believe this opportunity can help me network and
paragraph gain crucial experience in the field. I appreciate
you taking the time to consider my application for
• In your closing paragraph, explain
this role.
your excitement for the role one last
time. Attached you'll find my transcripts, along with
• Thank the employer for their time and letters of recommendation that reflect my
request an interview. qualifications for the internship. I look forward to
• Mention that you look forward to hearing more about this opportunity and
hearing from them soon discussing how I might support SocialSisterSites,
Inc. You can reach me at the email address or
phone number listed above.
Thank you again for your consideration.
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Signature example:
5. Letter ending and signature

End with your signature at the bottom.


…..

Yours faithfully,

Maria Mattea

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How to write an email for job application – Formula 3

1. Address the Hiring manager by name or Keeping the Job Title

Ways to open your cover letter


Dear Mr. Jane Smith,
Dear Ms. Smith,
Dear Human Resource Department,
Dear Hiring Director,
Dear Hiring Manager,

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2. Write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph

• Your opening paragraph should encourage the employer to read the rest of
your cover letter.
• In the first one or two sentences, mention the position and organization
you’re applying for, where you found the position, and why you’re excited
about the opportunity. Check out this example of an effective cover letter
introduction:

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2. Write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph (formula)

Each sentence of your opening paragraph should help you connect with the reader.
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3. Explain why you’re qualified for the job

• Your 2nd and 3rd paragraphs should convince employers that you’re the right person for the job. Use
these paragraphs to best market yourself by discussing your relevant work experience, skills, and
achievements (if any).

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3. Explain why you’re qualified for the job (formula)

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4. Relate your experience to the company’s needs

• Close your cover letter by restating your interest in the job and explaining how your
experience fits into the needs of the company.
• For example, if you’re applying to work at a company that’s seeking to break into a new
market that you have experience in, you should highlight this experience in your writing.

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5. Finish with a concise closing paragraph and sign-off

• When writing a cover letter closing, be polite and confident, and continue to market yourself as the
best candidate for the job.
• First, restate your excitement about the job opportunity. Then, encourage the hiring manager to
interview you (remember to mention when you’re available), and thank them for their time.

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5. Finish with a concise closing paragraph and sign-off (formula)

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Example of Question IV.
Read the note below then write an email 150-250 words to apply for this vacancy.
You may want to add extra information to make your email completed
Start your email with “Dear Hiring Manager” (3marks)
NOTES:
- Sales Logistics – Atlas Logistics Co., Ltd – Vietnam
- Key Responsibilities:
 Find potential customers, maintain good relationship with existing customers
 Solve all arising matters related to sales procedure.
 Update sales activities
 Cooperate with sales team and other teams for the smooth running of sales
department
- Requirements:
 Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Import - Export, Foreign Trade, Logistics…
 1 or 2 year experiences in Sales Logistics
 Good English Communication; Good at negotiation and problem-solving skills
 Having Passion in Sales career; Honest, agile and responsible at work
 Ability to work independently and under high pressure
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B. How to Write a Suggestion Email
To write a suggestion email, identify the issue at hand, formulate a feasible
(=possible) solution, gather supporting information, then draft an email with a
respectful salutation, clear introduction, detailed body, request for action or
feedback, and a polite conclusion.
Following slides will help you write an effective Suggestion Email:
• What To Do Before Writing a Suggestion Email
• What to Include in the Email
• Suggestion Email Template/ Formula 4
• Examples
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What To Do Before Writing the Email

Before writing your suggestion email, consider the following steps:


•Identify the Issue: Understand the problem or area you are addressing. Be clear on
why it needs improvement.
•Formulate Your Suggestion: Think through your suggestion. Ensure it’s feasible and
has potential for positive impact.
•Gather Supporting Information: Collect any data or evidence that supports your
suggestion. This might include research, statistics, or examples.

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What to Include in the Email

When composing your suggestion email, be sure to include these components:


1. Salutation: Start with a respectful greeting, addressing the recipient by their
appropriate title.
2. Introduction: Briefly state the purpose of your email. Make it clear that you’re
offering a suggestion.
3. Body: Describe the issue and your proposed solution. Provide supporting
information to justify your suggestion.
4. Request for Action or Feedback: State what you hope the recipient will do with
your suggestion. This could be implementing the suggestion, discussing it further,
or providing feedback.
5. Conclusion: Thank the recipient for considering your suggestion and indicate that
you’re open for discussion.

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How to Write an Email of Suggestion - Formula 4
(Subject: Suggestion Regarding [Issue or Area]) – You are not required to write the Subject of an email in the Final Test.

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I trust this email finds you well. I am writing with a suggestion related to … [briefly explain the situations or problems].

First of all, I have observed that … [describe the 1st issue in detail]. Given this, I suggest … [describe your proposed solution]. This
approach could … [explain how the solution addresses the issue], leading to … [potential benefits].

The second matter is (that) … [describe the 2nd the issue in detail]. My suggestion is (to)… [describe your proposed solution]. I believe
this would (benefits…) [explain how the solution could solves the issue].

Finally, concerning the issue of… [describe the 3 rd the issue in detail], I would like to recommend… [describe your proposed solution].
With the [solution], [our company] could…[enhance/ increase revenues; reduce costs]. This would help…[state the benefits].

[Provide supporting data or examples here (if any)]

Thank you for considering my suggestion. I am happy to discuss this further (to provide more details) if you find potential in my ideas.

Best regards,

[Your Name]
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Example: Suggesting a Change in Company Policy

Dear Human Resources Manager,

I hope this email finds you well. As an employee of your company, I would like to suggest a change in
our company policy that I believe would benefit both the company and its employees.

My suggestion is to offer more flexible working hours or the option to work remotely. With the current
situation, many employees are struggling to maintain a work-life balance. Allowing employees to work
from home or adjust their working hours can help reduce stress levels and increase job satisfaction.

Thank you for considering my suggestion. I am happy to discuss this further and provide more insight
on how this policy change can benefit the company.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

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Example: Suggesting a New Menu Item

Dear Restaurant Manager,


(Dear Mr. Smith,)

I hope this email finds you well. As a frequent diner (= customer) at your establishment, I would like to
recommend a new menu item that I believe would be a hit with your customers.

My suggestion is to add a vegetarian option to your burger menu. With the increasing number of
vegetarians and vegans, this would be a great addition and attract a larger customer base. A veggie
burger with falafel and hummus or mushroom and Swiss cheese would be a delicious and unique option.

Thank you for considering my suggestion. I look forward to visiting your restaurant again soon!

Kindest regards,

[Your Name]

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Example: Suggesting a Change in Business Operations

Dear [Company] CEO,

I hope this email finds you well. As a concerned consumer, I would like to suggest a change in your
business operations that would benefit not only your company but also the environment.

My suggestion is to reduce plastic packaging and switch to eco-friendly alternatives. With the increasing
concern for the environment, it is important for companies to make sustainable choices and reduce their
carbon footprint. This change can also help lower costs in the long run.

Thank you for considering my suggestion. I am eager to see how your company can make a positive
impact on the world.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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Example: Suggesting a New Employee Benefit

Dear HR Manager,
(Dear Mrs. Addams,)

I hope this email finds you well. As an employee of your company, I would like to suggest a new employee
benefit that I believe would enhance job satisfaction and improve employee retention.

My suggestion is to introduce an employee wellness program. Health and well-being is crucial for employee
productivity and job satisfaction. Offering gym memberships, yoga classes or mental health resources can
help employees take care of their health and reduce stress levels.

Thank you for considering my suggestion. I am happy to provide more details on how this suggestion can
benefit employees and ultimately the company.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

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C. How to Write an Email of Interview Feedback
(to Hiring Manager/ Hiring Team)
When composing your email, be sure to include these components:
1. Salutation: Start with a respectful greeting, addressing the recipient by their
appropriate title.
2. Introduction: Briefly state the purpose of your email. Make it clear that you’re
providing feedback about the candidates and offering your suggestion.
3. Body: Provide feedback in details about each candidates. Justify your choice to
reject or employ candidates. You may consider a candidate for another role.
4. Request for Action or Feedback: State what you hope the recipient will do with
your interview feedback and decision. This could be implementing your choice,
discussing it further, or providing his/ her feedback.
5. Conclusion: Thank the recipient for considering your email and indicate that
you’re open for more discussion.

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How to Write an Email of Interview Feedback – Formula 5
Dear [Recipient's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to you today to provide feedback and my selection of the three candidates attending the
interview for the position of … [job vacancy] on … [ date of interview].

With the first candidate – [Name of the 1rd candidate], I have observed that … [describe the 1 st candidate in detail].
The second candidate - [Name of the 2nd candidate] who is … [describe the 2nd candidate in detail].
The third one is [Name of the 3rd candidate]. He/ She … [describe the 3rd candidate in detail].

After careful consideration, I would choose …. for the job vacancy . As this candidate not only had experience but also showed interest in […], I
think he/she will be a very good fit for this role and the company in general.

The … candidate has extensive work experience, but I’m not sure whether he/she would stay motivated in this role for long. It’d be worth
discussing their career goals in the next interview.

The … candidate has no work experience, but he/she would be highly motivated in this role. Especially, he/she is good at […] and has […] (skill)
which is a requirement for this position. Thus, I decide to employ him/ her as … [a similar position].

I don’t think we should move forward with the … candidate at this point, since he/she lack experience in [….] which is a must-have for this role.

Thank you for considering my feedback and recommendation. I would be happy to discuss it further with you.

Best regards,

[Your Name] 35
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