In the dynamic world of Human Resources (HR), effective communication is crucial. Mastering the language of business is not just about vocabulary and grammar, it’s also about understanding common phrasal verbs and why not, being able to use them.
In this blog, you will find the 10 most useful phrasal verbs for HR professionals, with definitions and examples to improve your corporate communication skills.
There is a Conversation Question for you to answer in order to practice using the phrasal verb.
Extra tip! You can record yourself answering the question!
1. Bring On
Meaning
To hire or recruit new employees.
Example
The company is planning to bring on several interns this summer to support the growing workload.
Conversation Question
Have you ever been involved in bringing on new team members? What challenges did you face?
2. Phrase Out
Meaning
To gradually eliminate or discontinue a process or system.
Example
The HR department is working on phasing out the outdated performance evaluation system and implementing a more modern approach.
Conversation Question
How do you decide when it’s time to phase out a particular policy or procedure?
3. Follow Up
Meaning
To pursue or monitor the progress of a previous action or communication.
Example
The HR manager will follow up with the candidates next week to schedule the final interviews.
Conversation Question
How do you ensure effective follow-up in a recruitment process without being too intrusive?
4. Bring In
Meaning
To introduce or implement something new, such as policies, practices, or technologies.
Example
The HR team is planning to bring in a flexible work schedule to improve employee satisfaction.
Conversation Question
What factors do you consider when deciding to bring in a new initiative to improve workplace culture?
5. Cut Back
Meaning
To reduce or decrease, often referring to costs, staff, or resources.
Example
Due to budget constraints, the company had to cut back on non-essential expenses, including training programs.
Conversation Question
How do you communicate the necessity of cutbacks to employees while maintaining morale?
6. Take On
Meaning
To accept or handle responsibilities or tasks.
Example
The HR professional decided to take on the challenge of restructuring the onboarding process to make it more efficient.
Conversation Question
Can you share an experience when you willingly took on a challenging task in your HR role?
7. Roll Out
Meaning
To launch or introduce a new product, service, or initiative.
Example
The HR department is gearing up to roll out the new employee wellness program next month.
Conversation Question
How do you ensure a smooth rollout of new HR initiatives to gain employee buy-in?
8. Bring About
Meaning
To cause or initiate a change or event.
Example
The HR director hopes to bring about a positive shift in workplace culture through targeted diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Conversation Question
In what ways have you been able to bring about positive changes in workplace culture?
9. Sort Out
Meaning
To resolve or organize a situation or problem.
Example
The HR team is actively working to sort out the issues raised during the employee feedback sessions.
Conversation Question
How do you approach sorting out conflicts within a team to ensure a harmonious work environment?
10. Fill In
Meaning
To temporarily replace someone or complete a task in their absence.
Example
Jane will fill in for the HR manager while they are on maternity leave.
Conversation Question
Have you ever had to fill in for a colleague in HR? How did you manage the transition effectively?
Have you found these phrasal verbs for HR useful? If you want to learn more, check out my Business English Courses and contact me so that we can have a chat about your or your company’s needs – Let’s Talk!
