Деловой иностранный язык - страница 11

These are, of course, monumental decisions, but the basic principle is the same: the advantages and disadvantages of the various possible alternatives are weighed up and an option is chosen. That is how all our decisions are made.

Task 13. Talking Point 4 – Brain storming

▪ Consider three careers which might be available to you. Make a short list of the potential merits and demerits of each and then decide (and indicate) which of the careers you would prefer.

▪ Make a list of the likely merits and demerits of the Eurotunnel and then decide (and indicate) whether you think Britain do benefit from this venture.

▪ Consider where you will take your next holiday. Make a short list of the options and write under each the merits and demerits of each of the proposals. In the light of your analysis where do you think you will be taking your next holiday? Consult Speaking References p. 126–130.

While preparing, make up a table where you put down all the pros and cons.

Table 1

Available Careers: pros and cons

Task 14. Vocabulary 4

Read the passage filling in the blanks, using words from the list below:

The problems confronting a manager are likely to be and varied and it is not suggested they can always be ________ by reference to a rigid formula, but an analytical and ________ approach is certainly to be commended. Whether the decision ________ to personnel, finance or marketing, the ________of the process are the same.

First, the ________ must be defined. Where it is________ it may be necessary to break it down into parts. All the relevant facts should be and the various aspects of the situation brought together. Then the full ________of alternatives (or options) should be considered. A choice will have to be made between the alternatives and this ________ weighting up the pros and cons of each of the alternatives, before deciding on what ________ to be the best solution in the given circumstances. What is best in the ________ may not be so appropriate in the long-term – and vice versa.

In a business ________ the decisions will be made in terms of a ________ evaluation. The best alternative will either be the option which gives the greatest profitability, or the one which allows a given goal to be achieved with the ________expenditure.

At this ________ the decision is still in the mind and it now requires implementation. Subordinates need to be told what is ________ of them and their ________ need to be monitored to make sure they are ________ with the instructions.

Subordinates are often given the ________ to participate in the phases of the routine. They can information and usefully discuss a situation with their manager.

However, the ________ between the alternatives is the manager's prerogative, since he ________ responsible for outcome.

Task 15. Writing 2

Study the information given below about Juniper LTD and write a report. Consult Writing References, see Appendix III p. 134.

Juniper is a medium-sized company based in Norwich producing a variety of natural health foods in three separate factories around the town. The Personnel Director, Ben Walton, has recently seen some statistics on the subject of lateness and absenteeism among his workforce and they have displeased him. A summary of the figures for the last two years is shown here.

He has asked you as his newly appointed Personal Assistant to write him a brief but formal report (maximum 200 words) setting out your interpretation of these figures. He is considering the possibility of introducing flexible working hours at Juniper and would like to know what you see as the merits and demerits of this proposal. He would also like to know whether you have any other ideas on how the problems of absenteeism and lateness might be tackled.