IDIOM: Can’t see the wood for the trees

If you can’t see the wood for the trees it means you can’t see the whole situation clearly because you are looking too closely at small details, or because you are too closely involved.

Examples of use:I’ve spent all morning looking for a birthday present for my dad! There is too much choice!!! I got so confused with it all, I can’t see the wood for the trees anymore.
 
In business:Mark is too concerned with the project details that he can’t see the wood for the trees when it comes to the overall long term goals of the company.

How to: use linking words in email

Although this post is geared towards linking words that you can use in email, these words can also be used in speech, presentations and in other writing forms such as reports.

Linking words are used to explain your argument clearly and carefully. See the list below:

• Adding another point (like saying 'and') > Furthermore / In addition
• Listing points > Firstly / Finally
• Making a contrast (like saying 'but') > However / Nevertheless
• Making a contrast (like saying 'although' > Even though / In spite of the fact that
• Giving the consequence (like saying 'so') > As a result / Therefore
• Giving the most important example > Above all / In particular
• Saying what the real situation is > In fact / In reality
• Introducing the final paragraph > Taking everything into consideration / In conclusion

How to: Negotiate a Project

Negotiating is a strong skill to have. What language do you need to do it in English? Below you can find some suggestions:

• Asking for information > What are your usual charges (fees/rates) for ....?
• Requests > Do you think you could ....?
• Emphasising a main point > My main concern at this point is ...
• Asking for input > How do you think we should deal with this?
• Making a suggestion > Why don't we...
• Negotiating: being firm > I understand what you are saying about ..., but ...
• Negotiating: being flexible > We would be prepared to ... (if...)
• Negotiating: agreeing > Okay. I am happy with that for now.
• Next steps > I'll be in touch soon with more details / Please get in touch soon with more details.