Business Buzzwords...

A buzzword is a word or phrase used to impress, or one that is fashionable. Here is a guide to some of the most popular buzzwords used in business. Buzzwords are important to learn, but, like idiomatic expressions, they often go quickly out of fashion. However, these buzzwords have been around for a while and have become much more common in everyday conversations. I recommend students learn buzzwords so that they can understand articles and conversation. However, if you don't feel comfortable using these idiomatic expressions, feel free to use other synonymous vocabulary.
Each buzzword has a definition and two example sentences to provide more context.
buzzword = (noun) An expression that is extremely popular at the moment used to describe new developments in business. Buzzwords often have a very short life.
He uses too many buzzwords. I don’t think he actually knows what he’s talking about!
Be careful not to use buzzwords in your presentation. These aren’t professionals.
face time = (noun) Time spent with another person
Can we get some face time this week? It seems like we haven’t seen each other in a long time.
I need some face time with Doug to discuss the project.
outside the box = (adjective) Concepts that are not usual in a specific business, innovative ideas.
Let’s have some outside the box thinking on this project.
Our outside the box specialist is Tom. He comes up with all of the most innovative ideas.
win-win = (adjective) Good for everybody involved.
The project will be win-win for everybody involved. There’s no loser on this one.
We’re looking for a new partner in a win-win proposition.
disruptive innovation = (noun) Something that completely changes an industry, usually making product much cheaper.
Many think that education is going through a phase of disruptive innovation these days.
Every successful company needs to worry about disruptive innovation taking market share.
synergy = (noun) Interaction of two or more companies which produces a product or service which both can not provide alone.
Just think of the synergy between our two companies!
If we work together the synergy will help each of our companies gain market share.
push the envelope = (verb phrase) To challenge the accepted way of doing things to grow beyond the current capability.
I want you to push the envelope on this project. There is nothing that should be left out.
I asked Tim to push the envelope on the product design. You might find it strange, but I think it will be successful.

milestone = (noun) A very important metric such as sales, new accounts, etc.
We’ve reached our yearly milestone four months early!
I like to set specific milestones for each month to help me keep on track.
streamline = (verb) To improve by combing functions and reducing waste.
We need to streamline our marketing efforts in Asia.
How can we streamline production?
exit strategy = (noun) A strategy used by a business to sell off the company for profit.
Our exit strategy is to be bought out by Facebook or another social network.
Do you have an exit strategy for your company?
diversity = (noun) Different perspectives brought to a situation by having opinions from a wide range of people from different backgrounds.
Our company prides itself on the diversity of its staff.
I think we could use more diversity in this company if we want to go with the times.
proactive = (adjective) Someone or some action that tries to solve potential future problems or situations before they occur.
We need to be proactive about the Smith account. Otherwise, they'll find a new advertising agency.
We like to hire employees that are proactive in online conversations with customers.
If you liked these buzzwords, learn these internet buzzwords to further your understanding of how buzzwords are used in English.

If Sentence...

Introduction:
English learners should learn if sentences, also known as conditional forms, in order to discuss various possibilities that are either realistic or imaginary. Follow the introduction below, you will find a grammar overview and explanation for each tense. Once you are familiar with these forms, use the referenced materials to practice and further your understanding of these forms. Teachers can print out the comprehension materials related to the materials, as well as the suggested lesson plans with point-by-point instructions on how to teach the conditional forms in class.
The Basics: What Are If Sentences?:
If sentences are used to discuss things that happen based on the condition that something else happens. There are three main types of if sentences.
Use an if sentence in the first conditional to consider real, possible events in the present or future:
If it rains, I'll take an umbrella.
Use an if sentences in the second conditional to speculate about unreal, improbable events in the present moment or future:
If I had a million dollars, I'd buy a big house.
An if sentence in the third conditional concerns imaginary (unreal) outcomes of past events:
If he had spent more time studying, he would have passed the exam.
If Sentence Forms Overview:
If Sentence # 1 = First Conditional
If + S + present simple + objects, S + will + verb + objects
-> If the boys finish their homework early, they will play baseball.
If Sentence # 2 = Second Conditional
If + S + past simple + objects, S + would + verb + objects
-> If he bought a new car, he would buy a Ford.
If Sentence # 3 = Third Conditional
If + S + past perfect + objects, S + would have + past participle + objects
-> If she had seen him, she would have discussed the issues with him.
Study If Sentences In Depth:
Here is a detailed guide to all conditional forms with examples, important exceptions to the rules and a structure guide. The alternate guide provides options for advanced level learners. Finally, this guide to choosing between the first or second conditional provides further help on deciding whether to use the real or unreal conditional.
Test Your Understanding of If Sentences:
Once you've studied the rules - or if you already know the rules - test your knowledge:
Conditional Forms Quiz
For advanced level learners here is a reading dialogue comprehension exercise that focuses on using the third conditional.
Teach a Lesson about If Sentences:
This first and second conditional forms lesson employs reading comprehension about emergencies to help students discover and review the forms. Once students are comfortable with the form, they discuss other difficult or unusual situations using the first and second conditional
This conditionals tic-tac-toe is a great game to help students review all three if sentence forms.
Finally, here is a printable conditional form quiz to use in class.
If Sentence Activities:
Practice if sentences with grammar chants. Using these chants, you and your classes can practice the structure so that it becomes natural and easy to remember.