Sydney
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Sydney
NSW
2000
Australia
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Jargon in the Australian Workplace
23/10/17
When English is not your native language and you enter the Australian work force for the first time, it can be hard to keep up with some of these very common phrases used in the office!
After you’ve got your resume across the line, you’ve passed the interview and you’ve finally got that letter of offer with your start date, it's time to learn these top 10 most commonly used phrases to understand and get acquainted before your first day.
1. Get all your ducks in a row
Meaning: Be organised.
Example: Before your first day, be sure to get all your ducks in a row by preparing yourself with a pen and paper to take notes.
2. It’s a no-brainer
Meaning: A choice or decision that is so obvious or easy, it requires little or no thought.
Example: When you’re given the opportunity to take on extra duties in your position, it’s a no brainer to accept as it offers the opportunity to learn new skills.
3. Think outside the box
Meaning: A metaphor that means to think differently, unconventionally or from a new perspective.
Example: When confronted with a challenging situation sometimes it’s necessary to think outside the box.
4. At the end of the day
Meaning: When everything is taken into consideration.
Example: At the end of the day, if the customer is satisfied with the service, we have done our job properly.
5. It’s a win-win situation
Meaning: A situation or outcome where everyone comes away happy.
Example: When offering a special promotion to the consumer, it’s a win-win for all parties because the consumer gets a great deal and the company obtains a new client.
6. Touch base
Meaning: Briefly make or renew contact with someone.
Example: I will touch base with you after lunch to go through the to do list.
7. Going forward
Meaning: A progression in time from the present; the term suggests a continuing and progressive movement.
Example: Going forward, I would like to allocate 15 minutes at the end of our team meeting to type up my notes.
8. Giving it 110%
Meaning: An expression that is defined as giving all that you’ve got, plus more.
Example: I will give it 110% to have the task completed on time.
9. Close of play
Meaning: The end of the trading day or the point when trading ceases.
Example: I will have that report done by close of play.
10. It’s on my radar
Meaning: In a person's awareness.
Example: It's on my radar to do that task at 11am.
