[English 101] REMOTE WORK - Terms for virtual meetings and online tools

Teaching Material

Welcome to our Remote Work Vocabulary Guide! Let’s start by focusing on words and phrases you’ll often hear in virtual meetings, emails, and online collaboration tools. Each term covers a crucial aspect of working outside a traditional office setting.

We should finalize the agenda before inviting everyone to the virtual session.

Agenda (Noun) - A list of items planned for discussion in a meeting
Use ‘agenda’ to clarify topics and objectives of a remote meeting. Sharing it in advance keeps everyone prepared and saves time.
A: Did you add the budget plan to today's agenda? B: Yes, it's the second item.
Schedule - Use ‘schedule’ when referring to the overall structure of tasks or meetings in a day or week.

I’ve sent the project outline as an attachment in the group chat.

Attachment (Noun) - A file sent with an email or message
Use ‘attachment’ when referring to files you send along with digital communication. It's handy in remote work to share documents quickly.
A: Did you see the attachment I sent? B: Yes, I'm reviewing the file now.
Enclosure - Use ‘enclosure’ mostly in formal or traditional contexts, such as business letters.

Please update your availability in the shared calendar.

Availability (Noun) - Times or slots when someone is free for a meeting or task
Use ‘availability’ to coordinate meeting times and schedule collaborations in remote settings. It avoids confusion about when people can attend.
A: What’s your availability like this week? B: I'm free on Wednesday morning.

I don't have enough bandwidth to join another call right now.

Bandwidth (Noun) - Capacity for internet connection or personal workload
Use ‘bandwidth’ for describing both network capacity and personal availability. It’s common in remote work contexts to express constraints.
A: Do we have enough bandwidth to handle the video stream? B: Yes, our connection can support it.

We'll use breakout rooms for group discussions.

Breakout room (Noun phrase) - A smaller virtual room created within an online meeting
Use ‘breakout room’ for organizing smaller discussions within a larger virtual meeting. It's common in platforms like Zoom or Teams.
A: Should we split into breakout rooms for brainstorming? B: Yes, that way each team can focus on specific tasks.

I sent you a calendar invite for tomorrow's status check.

Calendar invite (Noun phrase) - A digital invitation to schedule and join an event or meeting
Use ‘calendar invite’ to propose or confirm meeting times. It helps coordinate schedules and reminders automatically.
A: Did you accept the calendar invite? B: Yes, I’ll be there on time.

Please send me a quick update via chat.

Chat (Noun / Verb) - A text-based communication platform or conversation online
Use ‘chat’ for informal, quick written communication among remote team members. It's more immediate than email, but less formal.
A: Let's keep this short. We can chat online later. B: Sure, I'll message you in our team channel.
Messaging - Use ‘messaging’ to highlight the general concept of exchanging brief notes online.

Our company relies on cloud computing for data backup and software access.

Cloud computing (Noun phrase) - Using remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data
Use ‘cloud computing’ to talk about storing and accessing data over the internet rather than a local server, crucial for remote work.
A: Is our new project on the cloud? B: Yes, you can access it from anywhere.

We use cloud storage to ensure everyone can access documents anytime.

Cloud storage (Noun phrase) - An online system for saving files on remote servers
Use ‘cloud storage’ to store and share files seamlessly, ensuring easy collaboration and backup for remote teams.
A: Did you upload the files to our cloud storage? B: Yes, check the shared folder.

Successful remote collaboration requires clear communication and organized workflows.

Collaboration (Noun) - Working together with others to complete a project or task
Use ‘collaboration’ to emphasize joint effort. In remote settings, good digital tools and communication methods are key to collaborative success.
A: How do you handle collaboration with global teams? B: We use shared documents and frequent check-ins.
Teamwork - Use ‘teamwork’ when focusing on the unity or spirit within the group.

I shared the sales report with my colleague for review.

Colleague (Noun) - A person with whom you work in a professional environment
Use ‘colleague’ for people you collaborate with in a professional setting. It's more formal than ‘coworker’ but both are acceptable.
A: Which colleague is handling the marketing campaign? B: Sarah is taking the lead on that.
Coworker - Use ‘coworker’ in a more casual tone. Both terms are common in remote or office contexts.

We need consent from all parties before recording the webinar.

Consent (Noun) - Permission or agreement to proceed with something
Use ‘consent’ when discussing permission, especially for recordings or data usage in remote meetings. Always ask before you record or share data.
A: Can we record this session? B: Sure, you have my consent.

Our deadline for the project deliverables is next Friday.

Deadline (Noun) - A specific time or date by which a task must be completed
Use ‘deadline’ to set or confirm the final time to complete tasks. Clear deadlines prevent confusion in remote work.
A: Can we push the deadline for the final report? B: Yes, but we still need to finish it this week.

I will delegate the data entry tasks to the interns.

Delegate (Verb) - To assign tasks or responsibilities to another person
Use ‘delegate’ to manage workload effectively, especially in remote teams. It clarifies who is responsible for which tasks.
A: I’m overloaded this week. Could I delegate some reports to you? B: Yes, send them my way.
Assign - Use ‘assign’ for specifying tasks to an individual. ‘Delegate’ often implies sharing higher-level responsibilities.

I'll do desktop sharing to walk you through the new software.

Desktop sharing (Noun phrase) - Showing your computer screen to others during a virtual session
Use ‘desktop sharing’ when you want everyone to see your screen during a remote meeting or presentation. It's vital for demonstrations.
A: Can you start desktop sharing? B: Sure, let me open the application first.

I accidentally hit a button and got disconnected from the call.

Disconnect (Verb / Noun) - To lose or intentionally end a connection (internet or meeting)
Use ‘disconnect’ for dropping off a virtual call or losing network connection. Clarify if it’s a technical issue or planned exit.
A: If I disconnect, I'll rejoin the session as soon as possible. B: Okay, I'll wait for you to reconnect.

Please review the project document before our next check-in.

Document (Noun / Verb) - A written file that provides information or proof
Use ‘document’ as a noun for files or official papers, or as a verb meaning ‘to record information.’ Essential for remote workflows.
A: Where is the guidelines document? B: It's in the shared folder.

We schedule downtime on the server for maintenance.

Downtime (Noun) - A period when a system or person is inactive or not working
Use ‘downtime’ to refer to maintenance breaks or personal breaks during remote work. It’s important for rest and system checks.
A: I might have some downtime tomorrow afternoon. B: Great, let's catch up then.

Please send me a draft of your report so I can review it.

Draft (Noun) - A preliminary version of a written work or document
Use ‘draft’ to show an incomplete version of work that needs further review or editing. In remote teams, it encourages collaborative feedback.
A: Is the document final? B: Not yet, it’s just a draft for feedback.

We'll need your e-signature on the contract before moving forward.

E-signature (Noun) - A digital form of signing documents electronically
Use ‘e-signature’ for formal approvals or legal documents that can be signed online. It speeds up processes in remote settings.
A: Do I have to print and sign? B: No, an e-signature will be sufficient.

I’ll send an email update after the call.

Email (Noun / Verb) - Electronic mail, used for sending messages and files via the internet
Use ‘email’ for formal or semi-formal communication, especially when you need an electronic paper trail. It's widely used in remote work.
A: Did you get my email? B: Yes, I'll reply by this afternoon.

We measure team engagement by their interaction during calls.

Engagement (Noun) - Active participation and involvement in a meeting or activity
Use ‘engagement’ to assess or describe the energy and contributions of participants in remote meetings or projects. Vital for motivation.
A: How can we improve engagement? B: Let’s include breakout discussions and Q&A.

It's important to follow video call etiquette, like muting when not speaking.

Etiquette (Noun) - Rules or guidelines for polite behavior in a certain context
Use ‘etiquette’ to remind teams about courteous behavior in remote settings. This includes punctuality, clarity, and respect during virtual meetings.
A: Could you turn off your mic? B: Right, I forgot the basic meeting etiquette.

I appreciate your feedback on my presentation.

Feedback (Noun) - Constructive comments or opinions about someone’s work
Use ‘feedback’ when you want input or evaluation of your work. It's crucial in remote teams where face-to-face communication is limited.
A: Can I get your feedback on the new proposal? B: Sure, I’ll let you know my thoughts soon.

Our platform supports secure file sharing for large projects.

File sharing (Noun phrase) - Exchanging documents or files electronically
Use ‘file sharing’ to exchange documents quickly in remote teams. It fosters transparency and collaboration.
A: Can you enable file sharing during the meeting? B: Yes, I've just given you permission.

I’m enabling focus mode to work uninterrupted for an hour.

Focus mode (Noun phrase) - A setting or state that minimizes distractions to boost productivity
Use ‘focus mode’ when you need undisturbed time to complete tasks. Common in remote environments where notifications can disrupt workflow.
A: Let me turn on focus mode so I won't get notifications. B: Good idea, I'll do the same.

I’ll send a follow-up email after the meeting for action items.

Follow-up (Noun / Verb (phrasal)) - An action or communication that continues or pursues something that has happened previously
Use ‘follow-up’ to track progress or clarify pending issues. It ensures accountability in remote workflows where face-to-face reminders are absent.
A: Did you get my follow-up about the budget? B: Yes, I'm preparing the figures now.

Make sure your hardware is compatible with the video conferencing app.

Hardware (Noun) - Physical computer equipment like laptops, headsets, or webcams
Use ‘hardware’ when referring to the physical devices needed for remote work. Good hardware ensures smoother virtual interactions.
A: My hardware needs an upgrade for better video quality. B: Consider getting a new webcam or microphone.

It’s best to use a headset to avoid echo during meetings.

Headset (Noun) - A device with a microphone and earpieces for audio communication
Use ‘headset’ to talk about combined headphones and mic. It reduces background noise and improves audio clarity in remote calls.
A: Is your headset working? B: Yes, I'm getting clear audio now.

I converted my spare room into a home office.

Home office (Noun phrase) - A dedicated workspace within one's home for work purposes
Use ‘home office’ for a professional workspace at home. Keeping a separate area for work can help maintain work-life boundaries.
A: How's your home office setup? B: It's cozy but well-equipped.

As the host, she can control who can enter the online conference.

Host (Noun / Verb) - The person who initiates or manages a virtual meeting or event
Use ‘host’ to describe the role of organizing or leading virtual gatherings. The host has meeting controls in most platforms.
A: Who’s hosting today’s webinar? B: Michael is the official host.

I need to clear my inbox today to stay organized.

Inbox (Noun) - The main folder where incoming emails or messages are stored
Use ‘inbox’ to discuss incoming messages or emails. Regularly organizing it helps you stay on top of tasks in remote work.
A: My inbox is overflowing; I'll sort it out now. B: Good idea, it helps keep track of important emails.

You can send me an instant message if you have a quick question.

Instant message (Noun) - A real-time text communication between internet users
Use ‘instant message’ for immediate text-based communication, often on platforms like Slack or Teams. It’s less formal than email.
A: Could you instant message me the link? B: Sure, I’ll do it right now.

The new interface is more user-friendly than the old version.

Interface (Noun) - A point of interaction between a user and a computer system, or between two systems
Use ‘interface’ to refer to the layout or design of software tools. A good interface can streamline remote work processes.
A: How’s the interface on this platform? B: Pretty intuitive; you won't struggle to find features.

Please join the conference call using the provided link.

Join (Verb) - To enter or participate in a virtual meeting, discussion, or group
Use ‘join’ to describe the action of entering an online meeting or platform. It’s a straightforward term for remote participants.
A: Are you joining the discussion now? B: Yes, I'll be there in a moment.

I'll send you the link to our shared folder.

Link (Noun) - A URL or clickable reference that directs to an online location
Use ‘link’ for sharing direct access to documents, online events, or any internet resource. Always verify it’s correct before sharing.
A: Could you resend the link to the meeting? B: Of course, I’ll drop it in the chat.

The keynote speech will be live streaming on our website.

Live streaming (Noun phrase) - Broadcasting real-time video content over the internet
Use ‘live streaming’ when hosting or watching real-time online video events. Common in webinars, conferences, and public announcements.
A: Are we live streaming this event? B: Yes, the audience can watch from anywhere.

I’m already logged in to our project management tool.

Logged in (Adjective phrase) - Being actively signed into a digital platform or system
Use ‘logged in’ to indicate that you have active access to a system or account. Always log out if you step away for security.
A: Are you logged in to the meeting platform? B: Yes, I’m in the lobby.

Here's the meet-up link for tonight's online event.

Meet-up link (Noun phrase) - A specific URL used to join or access an online gathering
Use ‘meet-up link’ to direct colleagues to a scheduled online session. Always confirm the correct link to avoid confusion.
A: Did you get the meet-up link? B: Yes, I’ll click it when it’s time to start.

Our next milestone is completing the app prototype.

Milestone (Noun) - A significant stage or event in a project or process
Use ‘milestone’ to mark key progress points in a project. It helps remote teams track objectives and celebrate achievements.
A: How close are we to our milestone? B: We should reach it by next week.

The moderator will mute participants to reduce background noise.

Moderator (Noun) - A person who oversees and manages discussions or participants in a virtual setting
Use ‘moderator’ for the individual responsible for guiding the conversation, handling Q&A, or ensuring meeting rules are followed.
A: Who’s acting as the moderator? B: Karen is handling that role today.

Working remotely often requires the ability to multi-task effectively.

Multi-task (Verb) - To do more than one task at the same time
Use ‘multi-task’ to describe handling multiple responsibilities at once. It’s common in remote work but can reduce focus if overdone.
A: I'm trying to multi-task by attending the call and finishing a report. B: Just be careful not to miss key points.
Juggle tasks - Use ‘juggle tasks’ when emphasizing the challenge of handling many duties at once.

Please mute your microphone if you’re not speaking.

Mute (Verb) - To turn off or silence audio, preventing one's microphone from transmitting sound
Use ‘mute’ to avoid background noise during virtual meetings. It’s polite to keep your mic off unless you’re speaking.
A: Could everyone mute while I present? B: Sure, I’ll mute now.

Our company network is down, so I can’t access the server.

Network (Noun / Verb) - A system of interconnected computers or the act of building professional relationships
Use ‘network’ for both technology infrastructure and professional connections. In remote work, a stable network is essential for productivity.
A: Is your network stable enough for video calls? B: Yes, I upgraded my internet plan.

I receive a notification whenever someone comments on our shared document.

Notification (Noun) - An alert or message informing you about a recent update or event
Use ‘notification’ to stay updated on changes, messages, or deadlines. Adjust settings so you don’t miss important alerts in remote work.
A: Did you see the notification from the manager? B: Yes, we have an urgent meeting at 2 PM.

I’ll work offline while traveling and sync my changes later.

Offline (Adjective / Adverb) - Not connected to the internet or a particular online system
Use ‘offline’ to indicate disconnection from the internet or to schedule discussions outside of a public forum. Important for boundaries.
A: I’ll be offline for a few hours. B: No worries, let me know when you’re back online.

Our remote onboarding includes video tutorials and virtual meet-and-greets.

Onboarding (Noun) - A process of integrating and familiarizing new employees with tools, culture, and workflows
Use ‘onboarding’ to describe the structured process for new team members. It’s crucial in remote setups to ensure quick adaptation.
A: How is the new hire’s onboarding going? B: Great, they’ve finished their initial training modules.

Our team relies on online collaboration tools to stay productive.

Online collaboration (Noun phrase) - Working together over the internet to accomplish shared tasks or goals
Use ‘online collaboration’ to emphasize digital teamwork. Tools like shared docs, messaging, and project boards streamline remote projects.
A: Which online collaboration platform do you prefer? B: I find shared docs and chat channels most effective.

I’ll be out of office next week, so please forward urgent emails to my teammate.

Out of office (Adjective phrase) - Not available or not working, typically due to vacation or personal reasons
Use ‘out of office’ to indicate unavailability or leave. Set an automatic email response so colleagues know whom to contact.
A: John is out of office until Monday. B: Okay, I'll wait for his return or ask someone else.

We might need overtime to complete the project on schedule.

Overtime (Noun) - Work done beyond regular working hours
Use ‘overtime’ to discuss extra work hours. In remote contexts, ensure you track hours accurately to avoid burnout.
A: Are you okay with some overtime this weekend? B: Yes, I'll do a few extra hours.

Every participant must introduce themselves at the beginning of the call.

Participant (Noun) - Someone who takes part in a meeting or event
Use ‘participant’ to refer to anyone attending or contributing to a remote meeting. It’s neutral and includes all roles present.
A: How many participants joined the webinar? B: About fifty, including the speakers.

We do a peer review of all reports before sending them to clients.

Peer review (Noun phrase) - Evaluation of work by someone of similar competence
Use ‘peer review’ to improve quality and accuracy. It’s common in remote teams to cross-check each other’s work for consistency.
A: Could you do a quick peer review on my presentation? B: Sure, I’ll send my thoughts shortly.

I’ll ping you on chat if I need more details.

Ping (Verb / Noun) - To send a brief message or alert to someone, often to get attention or a quick reply
Use ‘ping’ for quick check-ins or reminders in remote work. It conveys informality and prompt communication.
A: Ping me once you've updated the spreadsheet. B: Got it, I'll message you in five minutes.

Our meeting platform supports video, chat, and screen sharing.

Platform (Noun) - A software or website that hosts services, tools, or applications
Use ‘platform’ when referring to the digital environment or software system used for remote collaboration. Confirm everyone can access it.
A: Which platform are we using for today's webinar? B: We'll use Zoom for its breakout rooms.

I'll share my slides during the presentation.

Presentation (Noun) - A structured way of conveying information, often using slides or visuals
Use ‘presentation’ for delivering organized content in a meeting or webinar. Clarity and concise visuals are key in remote settings.
A: Have you finished creating your presentation? B: Yes, I'm just polishing the design.

Ensure the platform’s privacy settings are configured properly.

Privacy (Noun) - The right or condition of limiting access to personal or confidential information
Use ‘privacy’ to address data protection and personal boundaries in remote work. Checking settings helps you respect confidentiality.
A: Are there privacy concerns with recording? B: Yes, we should ask for everyone's consent first.

Keeping a regular schedule can help maintain productivity while working remotely.

Productivity (Noun) - The efficiency at which work or tasks are completed
Use ‘productivity’ to measure how effectively you or your team are completing tasks. Key to improving remote work outcomes.
A: My productivity dropped last week. B: Try time-blocking your tasks for better results.

We use project management software to track deadlines and tasks.

Project management (Noun phrase) - Coordinating resources, tasks, and timelines to achieve project goals
Use ‘project management’ for organizing tasks, delegating responsibilities, and monitoring progress. Essential for remote team collaboration.
A: Who’s in charge of project management? B: Our senior analyst oversees the workflow.

All support tickets are in the queue, and we'll address them in order.

Queue (Noun / Verb) - A line or list of tasks or items waiting to be processed
Use ‘queue’ to manage tasks and prioritize them in remote workflows. It ensures clarity on what’s pending and the order of handling.
A: How many tasks are left in the queue? B: About five, I’ll tackle them today.

Our policies are remote-friendly, offering flexible schedules.

Remote-friendly (Adjective) - Suitable or designed to accommodate workers not in a central office
Use ‘remote-friendly’ to describe processes, policies, or tools that facilitate virtual work. It's appealing to a wide talent pool.
A: Is your company remote-friendly? B: Yes, we have flexible hours and online collaboration tools.

Our remote-friendly policy covers equipment allowances and flexible hours.

Remote-friendly policy (Noun phrase) - Guidelines established by an organization to support remote work arrangements
Use ‘remote-friendly policy’ to highlight an organization’s supportive stance on off-site work. It often covers time zones, resources, and communication.
A: Does your company have a remote-friendly policy? B: Yes, we can work from anywhere as long as tasks are done on time.

Let me start screen sharing to show you the report.

Screen sharing (Noun phrase) - Displaying your screen or application window to other participants in a virtual meeting
Use ‘screen sharing’ for presentations, demos, or walkthroughs. It’s vital for visual clarity in remote collaboration.
A: Could you enable screen sharing? B: Sure, you should be able to see my desktop now.

Monitoring your screen time can prevent burnout.

Screen time (Noun phrase) - The amount of time spent looking at a computer or device screen
Use ‘screen time’ to reference how long you spend on digital devices. Managing this is crucial for health and balance in remote work.
A: My screen time has been eight hours daily. B: That’s a lot; consider taking more breaks.

Let's schedule our project review for Friday.

Schedule (Noun / Verb) - A plan of times for events, tasks, or activities
Use ‘schedule’ to create or arrange timeframes for tasks and meetings. It keeps remote teams aligned and organized.
A: Can we fit in a quick meeting today? B: Sure, let me check my schedule.

I have a schedule conflict at 3 PM, so I can’t join both calls.

Schedule conflict (Noun phrase) - When two or more events overlap in time, causing a clash
Use ‘schedule conflict’ to communicate overlapping commitments in remote work. Promptly address conflicts to maintain smooth collaboration.
A: Can we move the meeting? I have a schedule conflict. B: Sure, let's find a new slot.

Use a secure connection when sharing confidential information.

Secure (Adjective) - Free from risk or threat; protected against unauthorized access
Use ‘secure’ to emphasize data protection and safe communication channels. Security is essential for trust in remote environments.
A: Is our meeting link secure? B: Yes, it’s password-protected and encrypted.

We'll have a Q&A session after the presentation.

Session (Noun) - A period devoted to a particular activity, such as an online meeting or training
Use ‘session’ for distinct periods of virtual gatherings, workshops, or classes. It implies a defined start and end in remote contexts.
A: How long is today’s training session? B: It's one hour, with an optional follow-up.

Please sign in to the webinar five minutes before it starts.

Sign in (Phrasal verb) - To log into a service or account
Use ‘sign in’ for accessing digital platforms or websites. It’s the first step to participate in remote work tools and meetings.
A: Did you sign in with your company account? B: Yes, I just used my work credentials.

We use Slack channels to discuss different project tasks.

Slack (Noun) - A popular messaging and collaboration tool used by many remote teams
Use ‘Slack’ for real-time messaging, file sharing, and integrated apps in remote work. It's a brand name but widely recognized.
A: Ping me on Slack if you need help. B: Will do, I'm online most of the day.

We need specialized software for design collaboration.

Software (Noun) - Programs and applications that run on a computer or device
Use ‘software’ to discuss digital tools essential for remote tasks. Make sure everyone uses compatible versions for seamless teamwork.
A: Which software do you use for video editing? B: I use a cloud-based app for easy sharing.

We’ll track expenses in a shared spreadsheet for transparency.

Spreadsheet (Noun) - An electronic document for organizing data in rows and columns
Use ‘spreadsheet’ for data organization, calculations, or tracking in remote teams. Real-time sharing ensures everyone sees updates.
A: Can you update the spreadsheet with the latest figures? B: Sure, I'll add them now.

Send me a status update on your tasks every Monday morning.

Status update (Noun phrase) - A brief report on the current progress or condition of a task or project
Use ‘status update’ to keep team members informed on progress. It fosters accountability and helps prioritize tasks in remote work.
A: What’s your status update on the feature design? B: We’re about 80% done, just testing now.

Video calls are synchronous communication, requiring everyone’s presence in real-time.

Synchronous (Adjective) - Happening at the same time, often referring to live meetings or communication
Use ‘synchronous’ to describe real-time events like video conferences. Plan carefully, especially for teams in different time zones.
A: Do we need synchronous or asynchronous collaboration? B: Let’s aim for synchronous discussions once a week.

We’ll finalize task assignments at the end of the meeting.

Task assignment (Noun phrase) - The action or process of allocating specific duties to individuals
Use ‘task assignment’ to clarify responsibilities in remote teams. A clear assignment avoids overlap and confusion.
A: When will you update the task assignment list? B: Right after I review everyone's workload.

The task manager helps us track open, in-progress, and completed tasks.

Task manager (Noun) - A tool or person responsible for overseeing tasks and progress
Use ‘task manager’ for software or a role that tracks tasks in remote projects. It ensures transparency and accountability.
A: Which task manager do you recommend? B: I prefer a simple app with clear deadlines.

We have a virtual team building event this Friday to boost morale.

Team building (Noun phrase) - Activities or processes aimed at improving team cohesion and cooperation
Use ‘team building’ to describe exercises that foster trust and camaraderie in remote groups. Helps maintain personal connections virtually.
A: Any ideas for our next team building activity? B: Maybe a virtual game or ice-breaker session.

Share quick updates in the team chat to keep everyone informed.

Team chat (Noun phrase) - A group messaging space for team members to communicate
Use ‘team chat’ to coordinate tasks, share announcements, and maintain a sense of community remotely. It's less formal than email.
A: Is the link posted in team chat? B: Yes, it's pinned at the top.

Remote workers need to be tech-savvy to troubleshoot minor issues themselves.

Tech-savvy (Adjective) - Having practical knowledge of modern technology and devices
Use ‘tech-savvy’ to describe comfort and skill with digital tools and platforms. It’s increasingly necessary in remote work environments.
A: Are you tech-savvy enough to handle software updates? B: Yes, I can manage most tech tools easily.

He chose to telecommute after moving to another city.

Telecommute (Verb) - To work remotely, often from home, using the internet and phone
Use ‘telecommute’ in formal contexts to mean working outside the office via digital communication. It’s an older term but still relevant.
A: Do you telecommute full-time? B: Yes, I work from home every day.

We have a template for weekly reports to maintain consistency.

Template (Noun) - A preset format or layout used as a starting point
Use ‘template’ for standardized documents or presentations. It streamlines work and ensures a consistent approach in remote teams.
A: Could you send me the project proposal template? B: Sure, I'll upload it to the folder.

Use the time tracker to log hours worked on each project.

Time tracker (Noun) - A tool or system that monitors how much time is spent on tasks
Use ‘time tracker’ to measure productivity and billable hours. Transparency in time logging is often required in remote freelancing.
A: Do you use the time tracker daily? B: Yes, it helps me stay accountable.

We need to consider everyone’s time zone when scheduling the meeting.

Time zone (Noun) - A geographic region in which the same standard time is used
Use ‘time zone’ for cross-border collaboration. Scheduling must account for differences in local time to avoid confusion or missed calls.
A: What time zone are you in? B: EST. Let’s find a slot that works for both of us.

We need to troubleshoot the connectivity issues before the webinar starts.

Troubleshoot (Verb) - To identify and solve problems, often in technical systems
Use ‘troubleshoot’ to systematically find and fix technical or workflow issues. Quick troubleshooting is essential for smooth remote operations.
A: I'm having audio problems. Could you troubleshoot for me? B: Sure, let me check your settings.

Please upload your completed documents to the shared drive.

Upload (Verb) - To transfer a file from a local system to a remote system or server
Use ‘upload’ when sending files from your device to an online repository or platform. Essential for sharing work in remote teams.
A: Did you upload the video file? B: Yes, it's on the server now.

I marked the email as urgent, so please check it right away.

Urgent (Adjective) - Needing immediate action or attention
Use ‘urgent’ to prioritize tasks or messages. Overusing it can cause alarm fatigue, so reserve it for truly critical items.
A: Is this request urgent? B: Yes, please handle it first.

That app is very user-friendly; even new employees can learn quickly.

User-friendly (Adjective) - Easy to use or understand, especially referring to software or interfaces
Use ‘user-friendly’ to highlight intuitive software or processes in remote work. A good design reduces training time and confusion.
A: Do you find the new platform user-friendly? B: Yes, it’s simple and well-designed.

Please use the latest version of the file for accurate data.

Version (Noun) - A specific form or variant of a software or document
Use ‘version’ to differentiate updates or releases in software, documents, or files. Version control is key in remote collaboration.
A: Which version of the proposal are we referencing? B: The one labeled ‘v2.1’ is the most recent.

Git is a popular version control tool for developers.

Version control (Noun phrase) - A system for managing changes to documents, software, or files over time
Use ‘version control’ to track edits and avoid overriding each other’s changes in remote teams. It’s essential for clarity and rollback.
A: Do we have version control on our reports? B: Yes, we track all changes on the shared drive.

Video conferencing helps us maintain face-to-face interaction remotely.

Video conferencing (Noun phrase) - Holding a meeting or discussion through live video over the internet
Use ‘video conferencing’ to emphasize live, visual communication. It's widely used to replicate in-person discussions remotely.
A: Are you ready for the video conferencing session? B: Yes, I’ve tested my webcam and mic.

I use a virtual background so no one sees my messy room.

Virtual background (Noun phrase) - A feature that replaces or hides your real environment behind an image during video calls
Use ‘virtual background’ to maintain privacy or professionalism in video calls. It’s helpful if your real surroundings are not camera-ready.
A: That’s a neat virtual background. B: Thanks, it keeps distractions away.

Our annual conference is now a virtual event due to travel restrictions.

Virtual event (Noun phrase) - An organized gathering or conference held entirely online
Use ‘virtual event’ to describe online conferences, summits, or gatherings. It allows broader participation without geographical limits.
A: Are you attending the virtual event next week? B: Yes, I’ve already registered.

We’ll hold a virtual meeting to discuss the new product launch.

Virtual meeting (Noun phrase) - A gathering of people using video or audio conferencing tools rather than meeting in person
Use ‘virtual meeting’ when you gather remotely over the internet. It's an umbrella term for video, audio, or chat-based sessions.
A: Are we meeting in person? B: No, it's a virtual meeting on Teams.

Please connect to the company VPN to view confidential files.

VPN (Noun (acronym)) - Virtual Private Network, a secure connection used to protect data and access private networks
Use ‘VPN’ for secure remote access to company resources. It’s especially important when working on public or unsecured networks.
A: I'm using the VPN for better security. B: Good call, it encrypts our traffic.

Make sure your webcam is working before the interview.

Webcam (Noun) - A camera used for video calling or recording over the internet
Use ‘webcam’ to refer to the camera device for video calls. Quality and lighting matter for a clear, professional impression in remote meetings.
A: My webcam isn't showing any picture. B: Try restarting your computer or checking the app settings.

I'll be presenting at an online marketing webinar next week.

Webinar (Noun) - A seminar conducted over the internet, often with presentations and Q&A
Use ‘webinar’ for online educational or informational sessions. Often includes chat-based Q&A, polls, and presentations in real-time.
A: Did you register for the webinar? B: Yes, I'm excited for the live demo.

Set up a clean workspace at home to minimize distractions.

Workspace (Noun) - A physical or virtual area where one conducts work
Use ‘workspace’ for both the physical desk area and digital collaboration environment. A well-structured workspace enhances productivity.
A: How’s your virtual workspace looking? B: I organized my folders, so it’s easier to find files now.

Let me know if your workload is too heavy this week.

Workload (Noun) - The amount of work or tasks assigned to an individual or team
Use ‘workload’ to gauge how much each team member has on their plate. Balancing it prevents burnout in remote contexts.
A: How’s your workload lately? B: It’s manageable, but I might need help next month.

We’ll set up a Zoom call for the product demo tomorrow.

Zoom (Noun) - A widely used video conferencing platform for virtual meetings and webinars
Use ‘Zoom’ when referencing this popular platform. It's a brand name but often used generically to refer to online video calls.
A: Are we using Zoom or another tool? B: We’re sticking to Zoom for screen sharing features.

Automation in data entry saves us hours of manual work.

Automation (Noun) - Using technology to complete tasks with minimal human intervention
Use ‘automation’ to improve efficiency in repetitive tasks. It’s especially helpful in remote work to reduce manual workloads.
A: We set up automation to send out weekly reports. B: That’ll free up our time for other tasks.

We need integration between our CRM and email platform.

Integration (Noun) - The process of combining or coordinating different tools or systems into one
Use ‘integration’ to talk about syncing or connecting multiple software solutions. It streamlines remote workflows by reducing duplication.
A: Does this app offer integration with Slack? B: Yes, it syncs messages automatically.

All sensitive files must be protected with encryption before sharing.

Encryption (Noun) - The process of converting information into code to prevent unauthorized access
Use ‘encryption’ to emphasize security in remote communication. It’s vital when dealing with sensitive or confidential information online.
A: Is our messaging app using encryption? B: Yes, it’s encrypted end-to-end.

[English 101] REMOTE WORK - Terms for virtual meetings and online tools

Lesson Introduction

Teaching Material

Lesson Summary