職場英語口語(MP3)：Office and Cubicles

The office has three types of workstation setting. Some companies provide a single office for each employee, other companies have a cubicle system, and some companies have desks put together in a large open space where everyone sits. I'll separate this lesson into these three categories.

Desks all together

If you are in an environment where you have to sit at a desk right next to 15 other people with the same desks, I'm sorry for your situation. It's very uncomfortable working like this, but it is a reality. Here are some things I heard from people in this setting.

General statements or complaints

"It's not that bad, but there is no privacy."
"I wouldn't mind it so much if the manager couldn't see every minute of my day."
"I hate it. Even if they can't give us offices, they could at least give us cubicles."

"The reason I hate it so much is because I can't take a small break. Since the manager is always looking at everyone, even when I am not working, I have to pretend like I am."

"There are a lot of distractions. I can hear everything everyone says in the whole office."
"Mary sometimes turns on the music. It's not that bad, but sometimes I want it quiet."

"If I have a complaint about something, I can't talk to the manager because everyone will hear. I have to set up a meeting and use the conference room."

Questions and Requests

"I don't have another outlet near my desk. Can I get a power strip?"

"Can I move to a different location? The sun always glares off my monitor and I have trouble working."

"Can I sit on the other side of the room? This is too close to the door and it gets cold here."

"I get hot easily. Would it be possible if I sit next to the door? It is much cooler there."