Express to Impress Podcast artwork

Express to Impress Podcast

84 episodes - English - Latest episode: 8 months ago -

Communicating clearly, confidently, and effectively in job interviews and the workplace is critical for your career success. Join English Communication and Interview Coach Kristine as she shares communication tips and tells stories from the workplace, including funny mistakes. Designed for native and non-native English speakers, you'll grow your English vocabulary with definitions for English idioms and phrases. Can you talk about your accomplishments in a way that impresses others? Are you ready to deliver a presentation that doesn't bore your audience? Do you know how to ask for feedback in an interview? Express to Impress provides the knowledge, tools, and techniques to help you communicate more effectively and make others love talking to you!

Careers Business Education Language Learning career communication interviews resumes linkedin interview coach communication coach esl language learning job search
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Episodes

How to Present Ideas Successfully

January 22, 2021 23:00 - 15 minutes - 10.7 MB

Have you been promoted at work for your great ideas?  While we all have good ideas, sadly, most of them never see the light of day. People keep their ideas to themselves for many reasons. Perhaps they don’t like speaking up in meetings or feel overburdened by work and don’t want to invite more work. Maybe they’ve brought up ideas at work before, and others didn’t seem interested or even discouraged them. After all, most people don’t recognize the potential of an idea at first. But of cours...

Best of 2020: Express to Impress Podcast

January 08, 2021 12:00 - 14 minutes - 10.2 MB

Tune in to the latest episode of the Express to Impress podcast to hear the best of 2020! We'll review successes in 2020, and you'll hear clips from the most popular episodes. If you missed them the first time or want to reinforce your learning, you won't want to miss it. You'll hear clips from the most popular episodes: -How to Answer "Can you tell Me About Yourself?" -Introducing the Shadowing Technique for English Learning -How to Answer "Why Should We Hire You?" -How to Learn A New La...

Idioms and Phrases About Job Interviews

December 30, 2020 22:00 - 8 minutes - 5.87 MB

Is English your second language? Do you work with native English speakers? Expanding your English vocabulary will allow you to communicate better with your native English speaking colleagues. “Shy Away” is one of NINE phrases and idioms you’ll learn in the 30th episode of the Express to Impress podcast.  This episode is part two of How to Answer Interview Questions Without Rambling.  Stay tuned until the end of the episode when you will get homework to continue to improve your English com...

How to Answer Interview Questions Without Rambling

December 24, 2020 17:00 - 18 minutes - 12.8 MB

American interviewers want to hear precise, simple, and clear answers. They don’t want to hear rambling or layered communication. Australians, Canadians, and Germans appreciate this communication style too. On the other hand, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese interviewers are more likely to appreciate sophisticated, nuanced, and layered communication styles.  In this episode, we dive into communication styles by nationality, and you’ll learn how to prepare for an interview with a hiring manage...

English Idioms And Phrases And Conference Calls

December 18, 2020 12:00 - 8 minutes - 5.78 MB

This episode is part two of How to Lead Conference Calls. You were reminded that participants will appreciate it when you wrap up a conference call on time. In this episode, you will learn the definitions of eight new English idioms and phrases, including definitions for “on the dot” and  “wear many hats.” You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills. Tune in to continue building your English vocabulary with new idioms and phrases...

How to Lead Conference Calls

December 11, 2020 22:00 - 11 minutes - 7.9 MB

Nowadays, conference calls are the norm. Whether your team members live within a 30-minute radius of one another or live on different continents, you’ll likely conduct all meetings over conference calls.  By now, you know some of the perils of conference calls. Someone forgets to mute themselves, and you hear them breathing or eating their lunch, someone forgets to unmute themselves when they start talking, someone is talking, and then their kid or spouse barges in their office making noise...

Idioms and Phrases for Salary Negotiations

December 04, 2020 15:00 - 5 minutes - 3.51 MB

This episode is part two of Salary Expectations: How to Answer This Interview Question. You learned to reassure the interviewer that you are reasonable and won’t give them a headache about salary down the line. In this episode, you will learn the definitions of five new English idioms and phrases, including definitions for “give (someone) a headache” and “down the line.” You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills. Tune in to c...

Salary Expectations: How to Answer This Interview Question

November 27, 2020 12:00 - 16 minutes - 11.3 MB

In telephone screening interviews, it’s common for hiring managers to ask candidates for their salary expectations. Why do they ask this question?  They want to make sure your salary expectations align with the amount they have budgeted for the job. The hiring manager is also testing you to see if you know and will ask for what you’re worth.  While hiring managers have good reasons for asking this question upfront, it's tricky to answer it at the beginning of the job interview process. Con...

Learning New English Vocabulary

November 13, 2020 15:00 - 5 minutes - 3.98 MB

In last week's podcast episode, you learned how to learn a new language.  You heard that learning a new language should be more than just a means to an end. Of course, learning a new language will help you achieve other goals, but the process of learning a new language can be fun, rewarding, and beneficial in many ways. Tune in to this week’s episode to learn more about using "a means to an end” and seven more English phrases and idioms. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can c...

How to Learn A New Language

November 06, 2020 21:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

Language lovers, this episode is for you! Do you love the idea of learning a new language? To succeed, you'll need a plan and dedication. But it’s not all hard work. There are many ways to learn a language and have fun!  In this episode, you will learn how to learn another language. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, this episode is filled with ideas so you can create your own language learning plan with activities that you enjoy. You’ll learn the benefits of learning another ...

Best Kept Secret and Other English Idioms

October 30, 2020 12:00 - 5 minutes - 3.79 MB

In last week's podcast episode, How to Use Informational Interviews to Land Your Dream Job, I said informational interviews are the best-kept secret in networking.  That means they're great, but many people don't know it. So, they don't include informational interviews in their networking efforts.  Tune in to this week’s episode to more about using “best-kept secret” and five more English phrases and idioms. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your Engli...

How to Use Informational Interviews to Land Your Dream Job

October 23, 2020 22:00 - 12 minutes - 8.39 MB

Informational interviews are the best-kept secret in networking.  They are especially helpful for people looking to change careers, soon-to-be graduates, professionals returning to the workforce, and passive job seekers. They’re also great for people in dead-end jobs who want to find a new workplace that encourages their ambition.  Through an informational interview, you’ll learn more about a company and profession and grow your network. You’ll be able to make important decisions about you...

Keep An Eye Out and More Idioms and Phrases

October 16, 2020 18:00 - 4 minutes - 3.21 MB

This episode is part two of How to Find a Job Using LinkedIn. It's a short episode today! You'll learn four new English phrases and idioms. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills. Tune in to take your knowledge of English to a new level! Transcript at https://www.express-to-impress.com/idioms-and-phrases/. Infographics for this episode here. Get 30% off How to Land Your Next Job Online Video Course through October 31 with...

How to Find a Job Using LinkedIn

October 09, 2020 21:00 - 11 minutes - 7.65 MB

With a polished and active LinkedIn profile, you will receive job offers and other opportunities! In episode nine, you learned How to Write a LinkedIn Profile That Stands Out. In this episode, you’ll learn how to find a job using LinkedIn. Your time is so valuable, so it’s important you always approach your job search well informed and with a strategy. By using LinkedIn smartly, you can find job opportunities and advance your career. In this episode, you will hear tips on using your Linked...

Gift of Gab and More English Phrases

October 02, 2020 05:00 - 4 minutes - 3.01 MB

This episode is part two of the episode How to Improve Your Business English Writing Skills. In this episode, you will learn new English phrases and idioms. Increasing your English vocabulary will allow you to understand and connect with native English speakers.   It's a short episode today! You'll learn three definitions for the English phrases and idioms. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills. Tune in to take your knowled...

How to Improve Your Business English Writing Skills

September 25, 2020 16:00 - 10 minutes - 7.42 MB

In this episode, you’ll learn how to become a better writer for work. You may have noticed that some people have the gift of gab from an early age. But becoming a great writer takes some effort for everyone. In this episode, you’ll hear about my path to becoming a better writer, and I’ll share five tips to help you improve your business English writing skills.  When you write in a polite, confident, clear, and concise manner, you will gain your emails answered quickly! You’ll also gain resp...

Brain Fried and Other English Phrases

September 18, 2020 11:00 - 6 minutes - 4.31 MB

This episode is part two of the episode Introducing the Shadowing Technique for English Learning. In this episode, you will learn new English phrases and idioms. Increasing your English vocabulary for everyday conversations in your personal life and work will allow you to really speak the English language and connect with native speakers.  You'll learn seven definitions for the English phrases and idioms I used in the last episode. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continu...

Introducing the Shadowing Technique for English Learning

September 11, 2020 17:00 - 13 minutes - 9.48 MB

Transcript at https://www.express-to-impress.com/english-learning/. Language lovers, tune in! I hear this question, “How can I sound more like a native English speaker?” all the time, and I always give the same response. Use the shadowing technique! Shadowing involves repeating someone's speech immediately after they say it. It's like you're following them as your shadow follows you. The beauty of this technique is that anyone can do it alone. Since most people learning a second language ...

Hit the Ground Running and Other English Phrases

September 04, 2020 11:00 - 6 minutes - 4.4 MB

This episode is part two of the episode How to Answer, "Why Should We Hire You?" In this episode, you will increase your English vocabulary for everyday conversations in your personal life or work. You'll learn seven definitions for the phrases and idioms I used in the last episode. You'll also get some homework at the end so you can continue to improve your English communication skills.  If you currently work or want to work with native English speakers from the U.S., you won't want to mis...

How to Answer, "Why Should We Hire You?"

August 28, 2020 17:00 - 11 minutes - 8.12 MB

Believe me; you want to hear the job interview question, "Why should we hire you?" It's your chance to cut through the noise and tell them exactly what is unique about you. While you cannot possibly know other applicants' qualifications, you can sell yourself to the best of your ability, stating the things that would make you really great at the job, and convincing the hiring manager you're ready to hit the ground running In this episode, we’ll quickly revisit your three goals in every job...

How to Get Better At Anything, Including Getting A Job

August 14, 2020 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MB

Do you know how to get better at anything? Athletes do. They work with a coach.  You don’t have to try to get better at something on your own--a coach can help! Surgeon Atul Gawande says in a popular Ted Talk,  "Great coaches are your external eyes and ears, providing a more accurate picture of your reality."  Some people seek out coaches proactively. They hire a professional coach to help with their resume, cover letter, LinkedIn Profile, and interview responses before they ever apply for...

How to Get Better At Anything, Including Getting A Job

August 14, 2020 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MB

Do you know how to get better at anything? Athletes do. They work with a coach.  You don’t have to try to get better at something on your own--a coach can help! Surgeon Atul Gawande says in a popular Ted Talk,  "Great coaches are your external eyes and ears, providing a more accurate picture of your reality."  Some people seek out coaches proactively. They hire a professional coach to help with their resume, cover letter, LinkedIn Profile, and interview responses before they ever apply for...

How to Give Effective Presentations That Don't Bore Your Audience

July 31, 2020 21:00 - 17 minutes - 12.2 MB

How many times have you been trapped in a boring presentation? How many times have you given a boring presentation? And why are so many presentations boring by the way? Most people have a deep fear of giving presentations. A negative mindset, coupled with little preparation time, results in boring presentations. However, when you learn to see the opportunities associated with giving presentations and learn how to prepare for them, you will be able to influence people, share ideas you are ...

How to Ask for Feedback After an Interview

July 07, 2020 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.51 MB

Most employers won’t voluntarily tell you you’re out of the running for a job, nonetheless, outline the reasons you weren’t selected.  Why? They likely have many applicants, don’t want to provoke you, and even fear being sued. Yet, it is possible to get feedback after an interview, if you know how to ask for it the right way.  In this Express to Impress Podcast episode, you will learn how to ask for an employer’s feedback after your interview. Specifically, you will learn exactly what to w...

How to Write a LinkedIn Profile That Stands Out

June 18, 2020 12:00 - 14 minutes - 9.96 MB

I contend your LinkedIn Profile is even more important than your resume. Why? For starters, your LinkedIn profile is more robust than your resume. You can add multimedia, join professional organizations, list more accomplishments, among other features. More importantly, you can display others' recommendations for you and their endorsements, which carry more weight. It’s also something that is dynamic and shows what you’re doing now. You can use it daily and leave a digital footprint, all whi...

American English Pronunciation Tips for Workplace Success

June 08, 2020 09:00 - 15 minutes - 10.6 MB

Accurate pronunciation of English words is just one of many components of effective communication in the workplace. There is a lot to gain personally and professionally from improving your American English pronunciation! You'll build your confidence, gain more respect at work, reduce communication misunderstandings, and learn more about how the English language is spoken. People are motivated to invest in pronunciation training for many reasons. Whether it is a quest for learning or feeling...

How to Ask for Feedback in an Interview

May 29, 2020 09:00 - 14 minutes - 9.88 MB

In a perfect world, interviewers would give you feedback on the spot and contact you after your interview with their decision and advice. Unfortunately, this is not likely to happen, so it’s up to you to ask for feedback. In this episode, you’ll learn how to ask for feedback in an interview tactfully and effectively.  People often don't ask for feedback in an interview for many reasons. Perhaps they don't know they can ask for it. Maybe they assume they won't get an honest answer. Or, a can...

How to Tell Someone You're Looking For a Job

May 14, 2020 09:00 - 15 minutes - 10.8 MB

Unemployment is common, especially nowadays, with Covid-19 layoffs. There's absolutely nothing to be ashamed of, and there's no reason to hide that you're unemployed from your family, friends, and professional network. In fact, you are far more likely to land a job quickly if you do tell people you're unemployed. Yet, it's not something that just rolls off the tongue.  In this episode, you will learn what details you need to share when telling someone you're looking for a job. You'll also l...

How to Answer “Can you tell Me About Yourself?”

May 04, 2020 09:00 - 15 minutes - 10.4 MB

Guessing what your interviewer will ask you can be difficult, but you can always count on the question, “Can you tell me about yourself?” That means that you can be well-prepared for at least one question! When you deliver a great answer at the start of your interview, it will give you confidence and impress your interviewer. In this episode, you will learn the three goals you need to achieve in an interview to be successful. Then, you’ll learn about what the interviewer is looking for when...

How to Answer “Can You Tell Me About Yourself?”

May 04, 2020 09:00 - 15 minutes - 10.4 MB

Guessing what your interviewer will ask you can be difficult, but you can always count on the question, “Can you tell me about yourself?” That means that you can be well-prepared for at least one question! When you deliver a great answer at the start of your interview, it will give you confidence and impress your interviewer. In this episode, you will learn the three goals you need to achieve in an interview to be successful. Then, you’ll learn about what the interviewer is looking for when...

How to Uncover the Culture of a Company

April 24, 2020 14:00 - 15 minutes - 10.6 MB

Company culture matters. A common reason people are motivated to switch jobs is a desire for a different company culture. When employees fit into the culture of a company, they not only feel more comfortable, like they are at their home away from home, but they are happier, more engaged, and more productive.  In this episode, I walk you through questions to identify the type of culture you want in a company. You'll hear some of the most memorable and shocking answers I've heard from clients...

How to Make a Strong First Impression

April 07, 2020 17:00 - 14 minutes - 10 MB

There are many times it’s essential to make a strong first impression, like when you’re networking to get a new job. In this episode, you'll learn how to make a strong first impression on someone you meet. You'll also hear a story about when I needed to make a strong first impression on someone and how I prepared for that meeting. Finally, you'll get definitions for new idioms at the end of the episode. You’ve probably already heard that people form an impression of who you are in just a ...

5 Tips for Interviewing in English

January 20, 2020 17:00 - 12 minutes - 8.44 MB

Hello!  It’s Kristine here with the Express to Impress, and today I’ll be talking about interviewing in a second language. Speaking in a second language is tough; interviewing is tough. Doing both of them at the same time? Well, it can feel like walking into the lion’s den. It’s not for the faint of heart. And yet, there’s a lot of brave souls out there who are willing to do what it takes to land a job in their second language. So, today, I want to tell you a story about when I interviewed...

Introduction to the Express to Impress Podcast

January 14, 2020 17:00 - 3 minutes - 2.4 MB

Hello, and welcome to the very first episode of the Express to Impress podcast.  I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself and tell you what to expect in this podcast. I’m Kristine, and I’m from the US state of Missouri. Here, we have one of the most spectacular performing arts venues in all of the world; we have the Ozarks with undeniable rugged beauty, and we have friendly people. I love helping people communicate clearly and confidently so they can achieve their goals. I work w...