AptSpeak

Blog

Practical guides for professionals who work with Western teams — and for the companies that employ them.

How to Ask for a Raise in English (Without Feeling Awkward)
For professionals

How to Ask for a Raise in English (Without Feeling Awkward)

Worked hard all year but feel awkward talking about pay? Learn how to ask for a raise clearly and calmly, with phrases for every part of the conversation.

How to Say “I Don’t Know” in English Without Losing Credibility
For professionals

How to Say “I Don’t Know” in English Without Losing Credibility

Not sure of the answer in a meeting or interview? Learn how to say “I don’t know” calmly and professionally, with a simple formula and ready-to-use phrases.

How to Write a Clear Email to Your Manager in English (With Before-and-After Examples)
For professionals

How to Write a Clear Email to Your Manager in English (With Before-and-After Examples)

Does your manager miss your emails? Learn how to write an email to your manager that gets a reply, with before-and-after examples.

“This Is a Good Start”: How to Understand Indirect Feedback From Your Manager
For professionals

“This Is a Good Start”: How to Understand Indirect Feedback From Your Manager

Why does “This is a good start” often mean more work? Learn to read indirect feedback from your manager and respond with confidence.

How to Tell Your Manager About a Mistake or Delay in English
For professionals

How to Tell Your Manager About a Mistake or Delay in English

Learn how to tell your manager about a mistake or delay in English: early, clearly and calmly, with a simple structure and ready-to-use phrases.

How to Speak Up in Meetings When Native Speakers Talk Fast (and Keep
For professionals

How to Speak Up in Meetings When Native Speakers Talk Fast (and Keep

Learn how to speak up in meetings when native speakers talk fast: simple techniques and phrases to join in, hold your turn, and get your ideas heard.

How to Push Back at Work Without Sounding Rude
For professionals

How to Push Back at Work Without Sounding Rude

Learn how to push back at work without sounding rude: a simple three-step structure and ready-to-use phrases for managers, meetings and email.

How to Talk About Your Achievements in a Performance Review (Without Feeling Like You’re Bragging)
For professionals

How to Talk About Your Achievements in a Performance Review (Without Feeling Like You’re Bragging)

Dreading the self-assessment? Learn how to talk about your achievements in a performance review clearly and confidently, without bragging.