#12 Useful Phrases for Checking into a Hotel｜English for Travel Accommodation
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#78 Reporting an IT Issue at Work｜English Business Phrases
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When an IT issue occurs in the workplace, it is important to remain calm and clearly organize the necessary information before reporting it.
By explaining the facts in a logical order, the other person can accurately understand the situation and respond quickly.
In this article, I explain essential English expressions for reporting IT issues, using realistic workplace scenarios.
Contents
Dialogue
Sorry to bother you, but I’m having an issue with my computer.
No problem. What seems to be the issue?
I can’t log in to the system, and I keep getting an error message.
When did this start happening?
It happened right after I updated the software.
Okay. Does it affect your work right now?
Yes, I can’t access any of the files I need for today’s tasks.
Thanks for letting me know. I’ll report this to IT and get back to you shortly.
1. Reporting That a Problem Has Occurred
When reporting an IT issue, I first explain the problem briefly and clearly.
Example
- I’m having an issue with my computer.
The word “issue” means a “problem” or “malfunction,” but it sounds less serious than “problem.” It is useful when the severity of the situation is not yet clear.
Related Expressions
- I’m having an issue with the system.
- I’m having an issue with my account.
- I’m experiencing an issue with the network.
The phrase “having an issue with ～” is highly versatile and commonly used when reporting IT-related problems.
2. Explaining the Nature of the Problem
Next, explain what you cannot do or what symptoms are occurring.
Examples
- I can’t log in to the system.
- I keep getting an error message.
The expression “keep getting ～” indicates that the issue is recurring, not a one-time problem.
This information is especially important for IT support staff.
Related Expressions
- The application won’t open.
- My screen suddenly goes black.
3. Explaining When the Issue Started
In IT troubleshooting, information about when the problem started or what happened just before it occurred is often key to identifying the cause.
Question
- When did this start happening?
Answer
- It happened right after I updated the software.
Using “right after ～” helps show a possible cause-and-effect relationship.
Related Expressions
- The issue started right after I changed my password.
- It started right after I restarted my computer.
4. Explaining the Impact on Your Work
When reporting an IT issue, it is also very important to explain how it affects your work. This helps others determine the urgency and priority of the issue.
Example
- It affects my work because I can’t access the files I need.
The verb “affect” means “to have an impact on,” and “access” is a key term frequently used in IT contexts.
Related Expressions
- I can’t continue my task without access.
- This is delaying today’s work.
- I’m unable to complete my tasks right now.
Summary
Key English Phrases
- I’m having an issue with ～
→ A standard expression for reporting an IT problem. - I can’t log in / I keep getting an error message.
→ Clear ways to describe the symptoms. - It started ～ / right after ～
→ Important expressions for explaining when the issue began. - It affects my work because ～
→ A phrase used to explain the impact on work and indicate priority.
