
Pay And Benefits In A Job
- Posted by Ryan Anthony
- Categories A2-B1 Lesson Blog, Blog
- Date March 26, 2025
Understanding pay and benefits is essential in the business world. Employees need to know how to discuss salary, bonuses, and additional benefits when negotiating a job offer or evaluating their compensation package. In this First Business English article we will introduce you to key vocabulary, useful phrases, and an example paragraph to help you communicate effectively about pay and benefits in a business context.
1. Key Vocabulary for Pay and Benefits
Salary – Fixed payment for work, usually monthly or annually.
Wages – Payment based on hours worked.
Bonus – Extra money given for good performance.
Commission – Money earned based on sales.
Overtime – Extra hours worked beyond the regular schedule.
Raise – An increase in salary.
Deductions – Money taken from salary for taxes or benefits.
Pension – A retirement plan provided by the employer.
Health insurance – Medical coverage provided as part of benefits.
Paid leave – Time off work with salary, including vacation or sick days.
Work-life balance – The balance between work and personal life.
2. Common Business Phrases Related to Pay and Benefits
Discussing Salary
“What is the starting salary for this position?”
“Does this job include a performance bonus?”
“I would like to negotiate a higher salary based on my experience.”
Asking About Benefits
“What benefits does the company offer?”
“Does the company provide health insurance?”
“How many days of paid leave do employees receive?”
“Is there a pension plan for employees?”
Talking About Pay Increases and Rewards
“Will there be opportunities for a salary raise?”
“Do employees receive bonuses for meeting targets?”
“Our company offers a commission-based salary for sales staff.”
“Overtime work is compensated at a higher hourly rate.”
3. Example Paragraph Using Business Phrases
Lisa recently accepted a new job offer. Before signing her contract, she discussed her salary and benefits with the HR manager. She asked, “What is the starting salary for this position?” The HR manager explained, “The base salary is $50,000 per year, plus a performance bonus of up to 10%.” Lisa also inquired about health insurance and paid leave. The manager responded, “Yes, we offer full health insurance coverage, and employees receive 20 days of paid leave per year.” Lisa was pleased with the package and agreed to the offer. She was also happy to learn that there were opportunities for a salary raise based on performance.
4. Final Thoughts
Understanding and discussing pay and benefits is an important part of professional life. Knowing how to ask about salary, bonuses, and additional benefits will help employees make informed decisions about their careers. By using the right vocabulary and phrases, business professionals can confidently negotiate their compensation package and ensure they receive fair and competitive pay. To learn more and to practice your business English skills simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.
Good Luck. Keep learning with First Business English. Best Business English Online.
About First Business English
First Business English is a premium business English language online education center that provides individuals and groups the opportunity to learn Business English that enhances their careers and lives through a structured Business English curriculum. Contact Us
Ryan Anthony is an enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable Online Business English language tutor who is learner focused and highly adaptable. Bachelor of Business Studies Degree educated with extensive IT Support, Call Centre Management, Retail Management and English Language Teaching experience.
You may also like

The Pros And Cons Of Freelancing As A Career

The Effect Of Prices And The Cost Of Living
