Jerry: Yes, you went to LMNOP Corporation, right?

Fei: That's right. You have a good memory! They called me in for a second interview...

Jerry: That's a good sign. It means they like you.

Fei: Yes, I must have made a good impression on them.

Jerry: How did the second interview go?

Fei: I really prepared thoroughly for this one. I asked the interview a lot of tough questions about the company and the job, then I presented my ideas on how I would do the job.

Jerry: What was their reaction?

Fei: I think I really impressed them. They gave me a job right on the spot!

Jerry: That's great! What will you be doing for them?

Fei: I will have several duties to perform. The first is to organize meetings. Then I'll have to present plans to clients.

Jerry: Do you mean that you will have to give speeches?

Fei: Yes, something like that. I will give formal presentations. I have to admit, I'm a bit nervous about that.

Jerry: I'm sure you'll do fine, as long as you prepare as well as you prepared for the interview.

Fei: I'll have more to do than that. I'll also have to follow-up through email or on the telephone. I think I'm going to be very busy. Do you have any tips for me?

Jerry: You'll have to learn how to manage your time well.

Fei: How can I "manage" my time?

Jerry: Well, the first thing you have to do is "prioritize".

Fei: I know that "prior" means "before", but I can't figure out what "prioritize" means...

Jerry: It means to decide what should come first. In other words, what are your most important tasks. You should spend most of your time on the most important projects.

Fei: Oh yes, I've heard of that. Isn't there a rule, something like the 80-20 rule?

Jerry: Exactly! Your most important projects will be about 20% of your total work, but they're so important that you should devote 80% of your time and effort to them. The other tasks aren't so important, so they can be put off til later.

Fei: I see. I can't put off the most important jobs, so I have to be sure to get those done no matter what.

Jerry: I'm sure you'll do just fine in your new job. When are you going to start?

Fei: In two weeks. I'm really excited about it!