INSTRUCTIONS:
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Do not look at the questions before listening. You don't get questions first in a real life conversation.
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Listen to the conversation and answer the questions.
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Try to complete the questions after listening only 1 time. If this is not possible, it's ok to listen a second time.
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The more you practice listening exercises, the better your skills will become and you will only need to listen 1 time in the future.
Good luck!
Level:
Topic:
Speaker(s):
Length:
B1
Career, Decisions
2 People
1:47
Bob: Hey Mike, how's it going? I heard you recently switched careers. What prompted that change?
Mike: Oh, hi Bob! Yeah, it's been quite a journey. I actually went back to school while working full-time to transition from marketing to data analysis.
Bob: Wow, that must have been challenging. Was it difficult to balance work and studying?
Mike: Definitely! I took online classes in the evenings and did some weekend workshops. It was exhausting, but I knew I wanted more opportunities in the tech field.
Bob: I can relate. I'm currently considering getting a professional certification in project management. Did you find that your career change was worth the effort?
Mike: Absolutely! The initial investment was tough, but now I'm earning more and feeling much more satisfied with my work. What's making you interested in project management?
Bob: I've been feeling a bit stuck in my current role, and I think project management could open up more strategic positions in my company. Did you have mentors who helped you during your transition?
Mike: I was lucky. My former manager introduced me to a colleague in data analytics who gave me some great advice. Networking really made a difference in my career shift.
Bob: That's encouraging. I'm thinking of reaching out to some contacts in project management to get their insights.
Mike: Definitely do that! Sometimes hearing about someone else's experience can help you see your own path more clearly.
Bob: Thanks, Mike. It's inspiring to hear how you've managed your career change.
Mike: Happy to share. Sometimes you just need a bit of courage and planning to make a significant professional move.
Vocabulary
Career transition: (n.) The process of changing from one job, industry, or professional role to another.
Full-time: (adj.) Working the standard number of hours for a job, typically 35-40 hours per week.
Professional certification: (n.) A credential awarded to individuals who meet specific qualifications in a professional field, often through exams and training.
Strategic positions: (n.) Roles within an organization that involve planning and decision-making to achieve long-term success.
Networking: (n.) The process of building professional relationships to exchange information and discover job or business opportunities.
Work opportunities: (n.) Available positions, job openings, or chances for career advancement.
Investment: (n.) The act of allocating resources, such as money or time, to achieve growth or success.
Mentor: (n.) An experienced person who guides, advises, and supports someone in their career or personal growth.
Personal development: (n.) The process of improving one's skills, knowledge, and self-awareness for personal and professional growth.
Professional growth: (n.) The continuous process of developing skills, gaining experience, and advancing in one’s career.