Idioms
What does "hit the nail on the head" mean?
To do something with precision or say exactly the right thing.
Example: “Kira hit the nail on the head when she said making flyers would help bring in more customers."
What does B.O.G.O stand for?
Buy One Get One
Define "put a pin in it"
To note that something needs to be addressed, but to set it aside to deal with later.
How do you professionally say:
"I have no idea how to answer your question."
(Up to discretion of presenter)
Example: "I'm not very familiar with this topic, but I will go find someone who can better answer your question."
What does the phrase, "It is what it is", mean?
Along the lines of:
- We have no control over this situation
- There's no changing the situation, so accept it
- I feel the need to say something to I am just going to say this
To refer to pausing work on one project or task so you can focus on another, more urgent one.
Example: “Beverly decided to put hiring an intern on the back burner until she finished the quarterly report.”
Describe the task: Front and Face
When an employee walks around the store, inspecting all the shelves, pulling all products to the front of the shelf and ensuring all the labels are facing out (towards the customer).
What is a "no-call, no-show"
When an employee, prospective customer or vendor who does not show up as scheduled without calling in to let anyone know.
Is Slang appropriate in the workplace? Why or why not?
(Up to discretion of presenter)
Using slang in the workplace can be a great way to build relationships and create a friendly environment. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and awareness of the context and audience. Striking the right balance between informal and formal language is key to successful communication. So go ahead, have fun with slang, but always remember to stay professional and considerate.
What does a coworker mean when they say, "Let's circle back to this."?
Along the lines of:
- Let's revisit this topic at a later time
- I don't want to talk about this right now
What does "go over like a lead balloon" mean?
That something failed miserably.
Example: “Worf suggested we scrap the new communication strategy and stick to the old format, but that went over like a lead balloon.”
What is a planogram?
A diagram that demonstrates how and where products should be displayed in a retail store.
What is a "brain dump"
A brainstorming session where all ideas are welcomed, without judgment.
How do you professionally say:
"I don't want to talk about my personal life with you."
(Up to discretion of presenter)
Example 1: "I'm not interested in sharing my personal details at work."
Example 2: "I don't feel comfortable talking about my personal life on the job."
What does it mean when someone asks you, "Can I pick your brain?"
- Can I ask you some questions
- They are looking for advice/ideas
What does "Took the wind out of my sails" mean?
This used when someone receives bad or disappointing news, similar to "burst my bubble".
Example: "The manager said they didn't like my product display; it really took the wind out of my sails."
Name 2 reasons why a store would put product on Clearance.
- To get you to try new products
- To get rid of excess stock
- They are out of season
- A newer version of the product has been released
- The item has an expiry which is approaching
- The item isn’t selling
- So the business can raise money quickly
- To draw customers into the store
What is a "hard copy"
A physical printout of a document rather than an electronic version
SCENARIO:
You are washing dishes, the way your manager told you they must be done, as to follow sanitization and safety rules. Your coworker starts complaining that you are taking too long, and they know a faster way to do it. How could you respond to this?
(Up to discretion of presenter)
Example: "I understand this is a tedious and time-consuming process, but I was told by our manager that I am required to do it this way."
You and a coworker have been assigned to work on a project together. Your coworker says, "There are a lot of things that need to be done for our project. I would suggest that we start with the low hanging fruit." What do they mean?
Along the lines of:
- Let's start with the easiest tasks
Why do people use idioms?
Some answers include:
- Add creativity to conversations
- They can paint a visual picture for readers
- They can add impact or humor
- They can help explain complex ideas in a simple way
Name 5 types of retail businesses.
There are many different answers, some include:
Supermarkets, Convenience stores, Grocery stores, Malls, Mom-and-Pop Shops, Clothing Boutique, Discount/Dollar stores, Warehouse Stores, Car Dealerships, Hobby Shops, Bakery, Florists, Pharmacy, Thrift Stores, Hair Salon/Barbor Shop, ect.
Define "bandwidth"
Having time or space to fit something else into your workload.
How do you professionally say:
"You're being rude, and I don't like the attitude."
(Up to discretion of presenter)
Example 1: "Maybe we should put this conversation on pause until we are able to discuss this effectively and respectfully."
Example 2: "I understand this is a frustrating situation, but I don't appreciate the way I am being spoken too."
What is the goal when a manager asks an employee, "What are they key learnings here?" after a conflict.
- To see what the employee learned from a situation
- Ensure that the employee doesn't make the same mistake(s)