Beruflich Dokumente
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http://languagesstudy.googlepages.com/episode21lv
Anne, a wine dealer from Singapore, arrives at Adelaide Airport and meets her local buyer, Sarah.
SARAH I’m Sarah Taylor. I’m your new local buyer. Pleased to meet you.
(they shake hands)
ANNE Sorry.
MARK No worries.
SARAH
Come on. Let’s go to the hotel.
Sarah and Mark take Anne to her hotel. She checks in.
ANNE Thanks. I’ll be fine. And thankyou Mark, for helping with my heavy bags.
MARK Don’t mention it.
SARAH Alright then. Nice to meet you finally. I’ll ring you tomorrow.
SARAH Goodbye.
ANNE No thankyou.
ANNE No thankyou.
CLERK Thankyou. Here’s your key. It’s room 309. Enjoy your stay Ms Lee.
ANN Yes.
JOHN Let’s see… Yes, I can see you at ten o’clock. Will that suit you?
ANNE Okay, thankyou. (consults business card) 23 Mitchell Street – is that right?
JOHN That’s right. Second floor.
JOHN Goodbye.
CLERK Hello?
CLERK The restaurant opens in an hour, and dinner is served between six and nine pm.
Anne puts the phone down, then notices the photo by her bed and picks it up again. There is a tear in her ey
WOMAN Yes?
WOMAN Yes. You’re going the wrong way. You need to go straight along here, past the silver balls, turn left, and it’s
the second on the right, opposite the Town Hall.
SHOPKEEPER Yes?
ANNE enters the building and goes up the stairs. She knocks at the door.
ANNE Mr Barbour?
JOHN John. Private investigator. You must be Ms Lee. Please sit down.
She does so, hesitantly.
JOHN Well I’ll try. Now tell me about your brother Ms Lee. How old is he?
JOHN Well that would make him your younger brother. What’s his name?
ANNE David.
ANNE Yes. He speaks English and Chinese. Mr Barbour – can you find him?
JOHN I’ll certainly try. Now, tell me a little about yourself Miss Lee. Where are you from?
ANNE I come from Singapore. I’m Singaporean.
ANNE Pardon?
JOHN Oh sorry. We private detectives are a naturally curious bunch. Ms Lee, perhaps you’d better tell the whole
story.
6. He didn't write
ANNE My brother, David, worked in the family business too. But he didn’t like it. He wanted to try something
different.
ANNE He came here, to Adelaide. He studied computer science. We thought he was happy.
ANNE I don’t know. He wrote every week, and then the letters stopped.
ANNE He stayed with an Australian family. He was a boarder. Here’s the address.
She passes JOHN a piece of paper.
JOHN Did you phone them?
ANNE Yes, of course. He left there a year ago. They don’t know where he went.
JOHN Don’t worry Ms Lee. I’ll find your brother. I’m on the case.
He shakes her hand and she leaves. JOHN looks at the photo. Now he looks worried.
7. Come to Lunch
SARAH invites ANNE to meet her family.
SARAH and ANNE taste a sample of wine.
SARAH It sells well in restaurants here. I think these’ll sell well in Singapore.
ANNE The samples you sent me were very popular with our staff. You seem to understand our tastes in Singapore.
ANNE (unconvincingly)
It’s very nice.
ANNE I don’t know. I’ll probably stay in the hotel and relax.
SARAH Yes, and they want to meet you. We’re going to have roast chicken – traditional Aussie food.
SARAH We eat at about one-o-clock. So about twelve-thirty? I’ll show you the house.
LOUISE Mummy!
SARAH comes to the door.
STEVE I was going to pick you up this morning. You wouldn’t let me.
ANNE No, never. It's a beautiful home Sarah. So big! The rooms are much bigger than at home. There's more
space here.
ANNE Actually, no. We live in an apartment. Most people do. Singapore is much busier than Adelaide, and more
crowded.
MARK Adelaide is a very beautiful city. It's a better place to live than anywhere else I've been.
SARAH But you haven't been anywhere. (to ANNE) Mark hates travelling. I love it.
STEVE Yes. Yeah, I've been to Kula Lumpur, and to Bali. Bali's great!
ANNE You're lucky. I haven't been to the zoo. I'd love to go to the zoo.
ANNE Not at all. You have a lovely family. Everyone seems so happy.
ANNE breaks down in tears. SARAH goes to her, concerned.
ANNE Perhaps. I don’t know. It’s been a long time since David last called.
SARAH What do you think’s happened to him? Have you any idea?
SARAH I’m sure he’s alright. If something bad had happened, you would have heard.
ANNE : Well, maybe you could get some copies made of this photograph.
ANNE: He’s not really academic. He’s clever, but he prefers to do things with his hands.
ANNE : I’m thinking about this trip to the wineries. I want to meet your main suppliers and talk to them about the
market.
SARAH :Great. They’ve been dying to meet you. When do you want to go?
SARAH :I can’t tomorrow. I’ve got some other appointments. What about the day after tomorrow?
ANNE :Yes, that’s good. It’s Monday today, so that will be Wednesday. What date is that?
SARAH: I’m not sure, four or five. Definitely our biggest suppliers, and maybe a few surprises.
SARAH: Most of the day. I’ll start ringing now, and let them know we have a very important client all the way from
Singapore.
SARAH: Me too.
STEVE : Can I speak to Ms Anne Lee, please? I’m not sure what room she’s in.
The CLERK puts the call through.
ANNE:Hello?
ANNE: Oh, working. I’m planning a trip to the wineries later in the week.
ANNE : Ah,Wednesday.
STEVE:Oh, good. What are you doing tomorrow?
STEVE : Well I have the day off, and I was just wondering... well I was just wondering whether you wanted to go to
a wildlife park... with me. You said you’d like to go to the zoo.
ANNE: That’s right, I did. Yes, thankyou Steve, I’d love to go.
STEVE
Two, please. And a bag of food.
SHOP ASSISTANT
There are your tickets. Have a nice day
ANNE
How much do I owe you?
STEVE
That’s okay. It’s my treat.
ANNE
Thankyou. I’ll buy lunch. Is there somewhere to have lunch?
STEVE
Of course. There’s a café just over there. What do you want to do first?
ANNE
I really want to hold a koala. Is there a koala here?
STEVE
Yes! It’s the most popular animal! We might have to queue though.
ANNE
I don’t mind. What else is there? Are there some kangaroos?
STEVE
Of course. There are lots.
ANNE
And birds? I’ve heard Australian birds are amazing.
STEVE
Don’t worry. You’ll get to see lots of birds.
ANNE
What shall we do first?
STEVE
Well, the kangaroos are just over there. And I think the birds are next, and next…
ANNE
…we’ll cuddle a koala!
STEVE
Sure! And after that?
ANNE
After that, I’ll buy you lunch.
STEVE
It’s a deal!
They head off into the park.
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
It feels soft on my hand
ANNE
ANNE
STEVE
Oh yeah. I think that’s a willy wagtail. They’re very fast and they move around a lot.
ANNE
It’s cute. It’s got such a long tail. Oh, look at that bird!
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
Really?
ANNE
STEVE
Very colourful, isn’t it? There’s lots in Australia. Big ones and small ones. We have a very big one called a
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ASSISTANT
STEVE
Anne?
ANNE
STEVE
ASSISTANT
No sir. We don’t serve alcohol. We have coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.
STEVE
Okay. I’d like a… orange juice and a pie with chips. Do you have sauce?
ASSISTANT
Just help yourself. And I’ll bring the food when it’s ready.
STEVE
Thankyou.
ANNE
Is that good?
STEVE
It’s delicious. You should try one. It’s real Aussie food.
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
It’s very good. Don’t you drink coffee?
STEVE
Sometimes. I prefer tea. Or juice. So, was the koala the best?
ANNE
Oh, definitely. The kangaroos were interesting too. I’ve never seen real ones before. And the birds are wonderful. I
think I liked the birds the most. They’re so colourful, and so many different kinds. What about you? What did you like
best?
STEVE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
Usually. Sometimes I go with my father in his car. What about you? What do you do?
STEVE
ANNE
And how do you get to work?
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
Mostly. It’s not easy, being a builder. But it’s outside. I prefer to work outside.
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
A bunch of friends.
STEVE
Boy friend?
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
Of course.
ANNE
Not too boring? You must have been there a hundred times.
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
I’m going to cook a Chinese meal for you and your family.
STEVE
ANNE
Friday?
STEVE
ANNE
Yes, bye.
STEVE
Bye.
STEVE goes, pleased with his day. ANNE goes to collect her key from the CLERK, who doesn’t notice her. She
coughs.
ANNE
Excuse me.
CLERK
ANNE
CLERK
Certainly. Here you are. Oh, and there’s a message for you.
ANNE opens the message and reads it. It’s from JOHN the private
investigator.
JOHN’S NOTE
Dear Ms Lee
John Barbour
Private Investigator.
ANNE
JOHN
JOHN
ANNE
What is it?
JOHN
I went to the University. You said he was a student. I spoke to his professor, the head of the course he studied.
ANNE
JOHN
Well, no. Not exactly. He didn’t know where your brother went. But he told me David had left the university. He
ANNE
JOHN
Oh, about a year ago. He didn’t tell anyone. But he left a letter with the Professor.
ANNE
JOHN
The professor has it. He wouldn’t give it to me because it was addressed to you. He left… ah, his card.
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
Yes?
JOHN
ANNE
JOHN
Well, I don’t know yet, but I’m sure I can find her. We’re closing in Ms Lee. Fear not.
ANNE
Thankyou.
BUS DRIVER
Yes miss.
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
ANNE
Sorry?
BUS DRIVER
Yes.
BUS DRIVER
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
A single will do. You can use the same ticket to come back. That’s three dollars, please.
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
About ten.
ANNE
Thankyou
BUS DRIVER
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
ANNE
BUS DRIVER
Every twenty minutes. You won’t have to wait long. It’s 10.30, the next one’s at 10.40, and then 11-o-clock.
ANNE
Thanks. Goodbye.
BUS DRIVER
ANNE reads a sign 'Adelaide University' She enters the university grounds.
She walks down a corridor and sees a sign on a door 'Professor GRAHAM Cornish' She knocks on the door.
GRAHAM
ANNE
We’re all so worried. I’ve come to Adelaide to look for him. How long did he study here?
GRAHAM
ANNE
GRAHAM
I’m afraid not. I don’t think computer science was the right direction for him.
ANNE
GRAHAM
Ah, of course. It’s addressed to you. I told him I’d only give it to you in person.
DAVID
Dear Anne, Please don’t look for me. I need to be by myself. I can’t study any more. Tell mum and dad to forget
about me and take care of themselves. You too. Look after yourself. I’m sorry. Love, your brother David.
GRAHAM
Here
GRAHAM
Here
ANNE
GRAHAM
ANNE
GRAHAM
Yes, well he might have felt that way then. But a year’s a long time. If I were you, I’d report your brother missing.
ANNE
GRAHAM
Your poor parents, they must be so worried. I think you should tell them what you know.
ANNE
GRAHAM
Have faith. I’m sure you will. You know your brother. You’ll find him.
GRAHAM
GRAHAM
ANNE
GRAHAM
Why don’t you advertise in the newspaper? Put a photograph of your brother there. Somebody might recognise him.
ANNE
GRAHAM
ANNE
GRAHAM
When you find your brother – say hello to him for me.
ANNE
I will.
TIM
These are our whites. Why don’t you try the Chardonnay first? It’s our best-selling wine.
SARAH
Lovely.
ANNE
TIM
Yes, it’s made from some of our youngest vines. It’s our most popular white at the moment. Try this Riesling.
ANNE
Hmmm.
SARAH
TIM
ANNE
It’s a bit too dry for our market. I think we’ll leave that one. But I like the Chardonnay. I think we can sell that.
TIM
Excellent.
SARAH
TIM
Our reds are as good as any you’ll find around here.
ANNE
TIM
ANNE
Mmmm. A bit too much fruit at this stage. I understand it wasn’t a good year for cabernet in this district.
TIM
ANNE
TIM
SARAH
ANNE
TIM
It’s three years old now. It’ll drink well for years yet, but you can drink
ANNE
ANNE
I’ll think about it. It’s certainly got potential, but there are a lot of wines around in this class these days. You’ve got a
TIM
That’s for sure. But we can work out a special price for you, if you’re interested.
ANNE
I’m definitely interested. This is very good. Sarah knows our requirements and pricing position, I’m sure you can
TIM
ATTENDANT
ANNE
ATTENDANT
ANNE
Frozen please.
ATTENDANT
ANNE
ATTENDANT
ANNE
Thankyou
ATTENDANT 2
ANNE
ATTENDANT 2
ANNE
Three.
ATTENDANT 2
Something else?
ANNE
Some ginger.
ATTENDANT 2
ATTENDANT 2
Okay.
ANNE
ATTENDANT 2
ANNE
ATTENDANT 2
ANNE
Yes thanks.
ATTENDANT 2
ANNE
Thankyou.
Through the crowd Anne sees a young man who looks familiar. Could it be David, her long-lost brother?
ANNE is trying to keep sight of the young man as she finishes buying her groceries. The young man turns away
and she starts after him, but it is too hard to get through the crowd. She bumps into someone.
ANNE
Sorry.
ANNE
Steve!
STEVE
Fancy running into you here! Where are you off to in such a hurry?
ANNE
STEVE
Oh. Where?
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
Yeah,okay
STEVE
Yeah
STEVE
ANNE
Fine.
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE laughs
ANNE
What’s funny?
STEVE
When someone says, “Do you come here often”, it’s what we call a pick-up line. You know when someone’s trying…
ANNE
STEVE
Sorry. I come here every week to buy fruit. I like fresh fruit for work. What are we having for dinner?
ANNE
WAITER
Cappuccino.
WAITER
Yep
STEVE
WAITER
Tea. No worries.
STEVE
Do you want me to take your shopping home? I can put it in the fridge for you.
ANNE
ANNE
ANNE
STEVE
On Friday.
ANNE
Maybe
I thought I saw David at the market. But I didn’t get a very good look and I lost him in the crowd.
JOHN
ANNE
Just yesterday.
JOHN
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
JOHN
It’s just, I’m thinking he might have changed his appearance – if he didn’t want to be found.
ANNE
JOHN
Of course. I’m sorry. Maybe you did see him at the market. It’s just you’ve been thinking about him a lot. The mind
ANNE
I suppose so. Maybe it wasn’t him. I don’t know.
JOHN
Is there anything that would positively identify him? Jewellery, a scar, anything?
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
Silver. And the watch has an inscription. It says ‘To my son Norman’
JOHN
Norman?
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
In Chinese.
JOHN
In Chinese.
ANNE
JOHN
What’s it like?
ANNE
JOHN
ANNE
That’s right. You know it. The band is made of leather. He said he’d always wear it.
JOHN
Yes, well it’s not much, but it’s something I suppose. I’ll call you next week with some news.
ANNE
I hope so.
ANNE
RECEPTIONIST
RECEPTIONIST
Ms Lee. Yes, please take a seat. Doctor will see you soon.
ANNE
Thankyou.
RECEPTIONIST
ANNE
Thankyou.
DOCTOR CHANG
ANNE
I’ve been getting some very bad headaches lately. And I feel tense.
DOCTOR CHANG
ANNE
DOCTOR CHANG
No.
DOCTOR CHANG
ANNE
DOCTOR CHANG
ANNE
Yes, I’m worried about my brother. He’s been missing for two years.
DOCTOR CHANG
No wonder you’ve been getting headaches. Just let me give you a check up to make sure it’s nothing else.
DOCTOR CHANG
Your blood pressure is a little high, but your heart is fine. I’m sure it’s the
ANNE
DOCTOR CHANG
Try to relax and get some rest. Do you prefer Western or Chinese medicine?
ANNE
DOCTOR CHANG
Here are some tablets. Take two, three times a day. And try not to worry about your brother. I’m sure you’ll find him
soon.
ANNE
ANNE has her shopping in a bag. She puts it on the bench while SARAH shows her around the kitchen.
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
ANNE
And do you have a …. Hmmm. I don’t know what it’s called. A kind of saucepan with holes in it.
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
Large or small?
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
This one?
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
Singapore noodles with prawns. It’s a very famous dish. You can buy it at street stalls everywhere. I hope you like it.
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
Now we’ll fry the prawns. The oil must be very hot. It doesn’t take very long. While I’m doing that, you can chop the
SARAH
Like this?
ANNE
SARAH
Now what?
ANNE
Next we add the spices, and some ginger, and the leeks.
SARAH
ANNE
Now the leeks are soft, we put in some bean sprouts, and then the prawns, and the noodles.
SARAH
ANNE
Almost. Lastly we add some of this special sauce. I didn’t think I’d be able to find this here. Your market’s very good.
SARAH, her husband MARK, daughter Louise and brother STEVE are there. They are finishing their meal.
SARAH
ANNE
MARK
ANNE
SARAH
ANNE
LOUISE
Too hot!
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
What’s that?
STEVE
LOUISE
SARAH
No Louise. Let Anne relax. She cooked dinner, so we’ll clean up.
STEVE
You have to hold it like this. Gently, like this. Look where you want the dart to go, and throw it, but not too hard.
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE
Yes
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
I’m sure it’s him. This is the man who works at the stall where I buy fruit.
ANNE
STEVE
Hold on! Hold on! It’s ten o’clock at night. The Market’s closed. Let me have another look. How long since you’ve
seen him?
ANNE
Two years.
STEVE
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
What!
STEVE
ANNE
STEVE
That’s right.
ANNE
SARAH
SARAH
ANNE
STEVE leads them to the fruit and veg stall where ANNE thinks she saw DAVID.
ANNE
STEVE
ANNE gives him the photo and STEVE goes up to the FRUITSELLER.
STEVE
Excuse me!
FRUITSELLER
Yes mate.
STEVE
FRUITSELLER
FRUITSELLER
ANNE
FRUITSELLER
Yeah, well this does look like our Davo. Reckon it’s him, love.
ANNE
STEVE
I knew it!
Turns to Fruitseller
STEVE
So where is he?
FRUITSELLER
Look I dunno, mate. He rang yesterday. Said he wanted a couple of days off. I said okay – he’s usually pretty good.
ANNE
FRUITSELLER
SARAH
STEVE
Straight ahead?
SARAH
ANNE
SARAH
Not far. Keep going along this road until you get to a roundabout.
STEVE
Uh oh.
SARAH
What’s that?
STEVE
ANNE
What’s that?
STEVE
POLICEMAN
STEVE
POLICEMAN
I’m afraid you were travelling at seventy kilometres per hour in a sixty kilometre zone. Also, I see you have a
passenger in the back seat who was not wearing a seat belt. Do you know that you must wear a seat belt when
SARAH
I’m sorry. I forgot. You see officer, my friend here has been looking for her brother who she hasn’t seen for two
STEVE
POLICEMAN
Yes, well, you hear a lot of stories in this job. I haven’t heard that one before.
SARAH
ANNE
I’m really sorry. It’s all my fault. I was only thinking about my brother, and now you’re in trouble.
STEVE
POLICEMAN
Look, just stick to the speed limit, okay?
STEVE
POLICEMAN
But that’s no excuse for not wearing a seatbelt. Right now be off with you. I hope they find your brother, ma’am.
STEVE
Thanks officer.
SARAH
STEVE
ANNE
SARAH
STEVE
ANNE
ANNE walks up to the front door and knocks. A WOMAN (ROSE) comes to the front door.
ROSE
Hello.
ANNE
Hello. I wonder… er, I’m sorry to bother you. I’m looking for…it’s very hard to explain.
ROSE
ANNE is shocked. DAVID comes to the door and recognises his sister.
DAVID
Anne!
ANNE
David!
DAVID
ANNE
DAVID
ROSE
Your sister!
DAVID
ROSE
ROSE
ROSE
DAVID
I’m so sorry. Anne, I feel very bad about not contacting you.
ANNE
I just can’t believe it. I was looking for you, thinking that something terrible must have happened and here you are
playing house!
DAVID
He takes ANNE to a corner of the room where there is a crib with a cover over it. He folds back the cover. There is
a baby there.
DAVID
ANNE
David! My little brother – a father! He’s beautiful! David, why didn’t you tell me about Rose. Why didn’t you tell me
ROSE
ANNE
DAVID
ANNE
I have some friends outside who helped me find you. I think you need to tell us all what happened.
ROSE
DAVID picks SAM up out of his crib, and passes him to ANNE.
ANNE
I’m an aunt!
ANNE
Sarah, Steve. This is my brother David and his partner, Rose. And this is my nephew Sam.
SARAH
He’s gorgeous!
DAVID
(to STEVE)
DAVID
STEVE
ROSE
ANNE
DAVID
I started my course at University. It was very difficult. Computer science isn’t for me.
ANNE
DAVID
Yes. I let everyone down. I just wanted to die. Dad must be so angry.
ANNE
DAVID
I didn’t know what to do. I was so confused. I had to find a job. I couldn’t use father’s money any more. So, I applied
for a job at the Markets. Phil was very kind. He agreed to give me a job if I could get a working visa.
ANNE
DAVID
ANNE
DAVID
ROSE
DAVID
Anyway, I returned here, and I started work. I met Rose, we moved in together, and, well, then Sam came along.
STEVE
SARAH
DAVID
ANNE
ANNE
DAVID
ANNE
You should have told me. I could have helped. Didn’t you realise we’d come and look for you?
DAVID
ANNE
DAVID
I ought to have told you Anne. I should have trusted you. I’m so sorry.
ANNE
He’s so beautiful David. You can’t keep him from Mum and Dad.
ROSE
They’re your flesh and blood, David. They’re Sam’s grandparents. Don’t you think they’ll want to see him? Don’t you
ANNE
DAVID
SARAH
Steve!
ANNE
It’s alright Sarah. Steve’s right. I think David knows what he has to do.
DAVID
DAVID
Hello Mum. It’s me, David. Yeah, I’m Okay, I’m alright. Anne found me. Yeah, I’m working. Look, I’m so sorry that I
didn’t call you. Can you forgive me? Yeah okay, alright. I love you too. Yeah, Alright. Mum’s crying. She’s gone to get
DAVID
NORMAN
DAVID (V.O.)
Yes, I…
NORMAN
DAVID
I’m sorry for causing you so much worry dad. I thought you would be angry. That’s why I didn’t tell you I couldn’t
NORMAN
Of course I’m angry. Your mother has been sick with worry. But you didn’t have to disappear. What have you been
DAVID
I’ve been working. I work at the market. I’m going to be a partner in the business soon. And Dad…there’s something
else. I’m with someone. And we have a baby boy (silence) Dad…? Are you still there?
NORMAN
DAVID
Not exactly. I have a partner. Her name is Rose. And we have a son. Your grandson. Dad?
NORMAN
I’m here David. There’s too much to think about. I want you to come home.
DAVID
But I…
NORMAN
No buts. You need to come home. Bring her. Bring Rose and our grandson. Your mother and I love you, and we
ANNE
Yes, Sarah, thank you for everything.
SARAH
But you’ll come back, won’t you?
ANNE
Yes, if the wine sells well, I’ll be back soon. I feel as if I have a second family here.
SARAH
I’d love to come and see you in Singapore.
ANNE
Oh yes! I’ll show you around. And you must meet my parents. That’d be great.
SARAH
Well, if our business goes well, I’ll be able to afford it.
ANNE
There’s no ‘ifs’ about it. You’re a very good agent. I’m so happy you’re my buyer here.
STEVE
If you like, I’ll come to Singapore with Sarah.
ANNE
I’d like that very much. You can meet my parents too.
STEVE
Do you think they’ll like me?
ANNE
Of course they’ll like you. If I like you, they’ll like you.
SARAH
I think I’d better leave you two alone. Ring me if you need help with packing.
STEVE
I’ve only just met you. And now you’re leaving.
ANNE
But I’ll come back. If you want me to
DAVID
Goodbye. I’ll see you soon. Yeah, I promise. I love you too.
SARAH
Well? What did they say?
DAVID
My mother said she was glad that I’m okay. She said she was happy to hear my voice. She told me that she’s been
very worried.
ANNE
What about dad? What did he say?
DAVID
He said he was very angry, but that he forgives me, and he told me that he loves me.
ANNE
Of course he loves you. He’s your father!
ROSE
Did he say anything else?
DAVID
Yes, he asked me to go home. He said they want to see us.
ROSE
All of us?
DAVID
Yes. They want to meet you. And Sam. They asked us to go to Singapore.
ROSE
But we can’t afford it.
DAVID
He’s sending us tickets.
ANNE
Of course he is. He loves you, David. We all do. And now there is Rose and Sam too.
ROSE
I’d love to meet your parents David. And Sam wants to meet his grandparents. They’re our family
DAVID
I’m so sorry.
ROSE
It’s okay. It’s all out now. We’ll go as soon as possible.
ANNE
You can come with me.
STEVE
What about me? Can I come too?
SARAH
You’re not family, Steve.
SARAH
Well, you found your brother, you’ve ordered your wine, and tomorrow you’re going home.
ANNE
Yes, Sarah, thank you for everything.
SARAH
But you’ll come back, won’t you?
ANNE
Yes, if the wine sells well, I’ll be back soon. I feel as if I have a second family here.
SARAH
I’d love to come and see you in Singapore.
ANNE
Oh yes! I’ll show you around. And you must meet my parents. That’d be great.
SARAH
Well, if our business goes well, I’ll be able to afford it.
ANNE
There’s no ‘ifs’ about it. You’re a very good agent. I’m so happy you’re my buyer here.
STEVE
If you like, I’ll come to Singapore with Sarah.
ANNE
I’d like that very much. You can meet my parents too.
STEVE
Do you think they’ll like me?
ANNE
Of course they’ll like you. If I like you, they’ll like you.
SARAH
I think I’d better leave you two alone. Ring me if you need help with packing.
STEVE
I’ve only just met you. And now you’re leaving.
ANNE
But I’ll come back. If you want me to.
ANNE
Well, I guess this is it. Sarah, thankyou so much for all your help, and for your kindness.
SARAH
Please don’t mention it. And thankyou for trusting me to be your business partner.
ANNE
And my friend. I’ll be thinking of you all the time.
DAVID
I want to thank you too Sarah, for being so kind to my sister and looking after her so well. I’ll be thinking of you too.
SARAH
Thankyou. It was great to meet you. And you too Rose. I hope everything goes well in Singapore.
ROSE
I’m looking forward to meeting David’s parents. I hope they like me.
SARAH
I’m sure they will. I’ll be expecting a postcard from you Anne, so you’d better send me one.
STEVE
And I’ll be waiting for a postcard too.
ANNE
I’ll be counting the days until you come to Singapore.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Attention please! This is the final call for Singapore Airlines flight SQ452 direct to Singapore. Could all passengers
for this flight go immediately to gate lounge 3.
ANNE
Goodbye. See you soon.
SARAH
Goodbye.
STEVE
I’ll see you soon.
SARAH
Goodbye ROSE. Good luck. And you too David.
JOHN
Wait! I’ve found him. I’ve found your brother!
STEVE
What. Another one?
THE END
Business English
1 - Pleased to Meet You
Waiter hands drink to Victor.
SAM: Ah yes. I know your company. Your business is expanding very rapidly at the moment.
VICTOR: Yes, we’re doing quite well. And yourself? Who do you work for?
SAM: Actually I work for myself. I’m the C.E.O. of a small export and packaging company. We specialise in seafood.
VICTOR: It’s a growing market.
SAM: Sam. Victor, let me introduce you to someone. Lin – this is Victor Tang – he’s the regional rep. for
OceanWide. This is Lin Chan, my sales manager.
LIN: Thankyou.
Let's look at introductions. First – how did Sam introduce himself to Victor – who he didn't know?
Victor Tang.
Pleased to meet you.
Sam said hello. We can say hello in most situations. He also said I don't think we've met. This is a good phrase to
use if you want to meet someone new. Practise saying Hello, I don't think we've met, and then say your name.
Victor replied by saying his name and pleased to meet you. Pleased to meet you is a good formal greeting for most
situations. After Sam introduces himself, say your name, and 'pleased to meet you'.
And the Western tradition is to shake hands when you meet someone. Usually, when we first meet someone in a
business situation, we want to find out what they do - what their job, or position is. Let's see how Victor and Sam do
this.
And what company are you from Mr Tang?
Actually I work for myself. I'm the C.E.O. of a small export and packaging company. We specialise in
seafood.
Sam asks and what company are you from? There are a few different ways you could ask this question: Let's try
some of them:
Now you try answering Sam's question with your own answer, saying what company you are from...
And what company are you from?
And you can be more specific by asking about someone's job. Practise these...
Position means the same as job, but it's a more formal term. Listen to how both Sam and Victor describe their
positions:
We describe our job by saying I am or I'm and then naming the position. Notice that Sam says he is the C.E.O. or
Chief Executive Officer of his company. When someone asks who you work for, it can be useful to also tell them
what your job is. When meeting someone, it helps them if you offer information before they ask. This makes the
conversation more relaxed. Now Sam is going to ask you who you work for and what your position is - answer his
questions with your own answers:
Now, the business of names. Should we use formal titles, such as Mr, Mrs or Ms, or should we use informal, more
familiar names. Let's see how Victor solves this problem:
Sam.
Sam uses Victor's formal title - Mr Tang. But Victor says Please call me Victor. Now that they have met, it's more
comfortable for them to use each other's first names - at least in this less formal situation. Practise saying Please
call me, and your first name after Sam's statement.
Sam introduces Victor to someone else. Let's watch how he does this.
Lin - this is Victor Tang - he's the regional rep. for OceanWide.
Sam says let me introduce you to someone. This is a very useful phrase. Practise saying it after Sam:
When Sam introduces Lin, he has four pieces of information. Listen carefully to what they are:
First, he told Lin Victor's full name. Second, he told her what Victor's position was and his company name. Third, he
introduced Lin using her full name, and finally he told Victor what Lin's job was. This way both Victor and Lin know
enough about each other to start a conversation. When introducing people at a function, it's important to try to make
them feel comfortable.
Finally, listen again to how Lin and Victor greet each other:
And you.
Lin uses the phrase how do you do. Practise this phrase:
How do you do is another formal phrase for introductions. Victor replies with a formal phrase too I'm very well
thankyou. Practise this after Lin's question.
If someone says How do you do? or How are you? we usually say I'm very well thankyou. And we could ask them
how they are, by saying How do you do? or How are you?
Let's review some of the phrases we've learnt today, for introducing yourself and other people. Practise the phrases
with our characters Sam, Victor and Lin.
Remember, when meeting people, tell them something about yourself before being asked.
When you ask people questions about themselves in English, use a falling tone - it sounds friendlier. Instead of Who
do you work for? (upward inflection)
Who do you work for? (downward inflection)
And when introducing a colleague, or someone you've met, use the full names of both people, and their positions.
And that's all for today on The Business of English. I'll see you next time
VICTOR: That's very kind of you. I'll just check with my associate whether they have other arrangements for us.
WALTER: This is Sam Eriks from Eriks imports. He has very kindly invited us to a dinner.
WALTER: Unfortunately I have another engagement, but thankyou for the invitation.
SAM: Well, perhaps you could join us after that for a drink?
LIN: Oh wonderful.
LIN: Okay.
3 - Getting Acquainted
WAITER: Another drink sir?
WALTER: No thankyou.
SUE: Excuse me - is anyone sitting here?
SUE: No, but I just flew in this morning, and I haven't had a chance to sit down since then.
SUE: No, I have been once before, but it was a long time ago.
WALTER: Yes, it has its points. But you're lucky to live in Manila. It's a fascinating city.
WALTER: No, I live in Melbourne. I'm just here for the conference.
SUE: I'm going to Melbourne later. What's the weather like there?
WALTER: Not too good in winter, but at the moment it should be okay.
Today we're looking at a typical conversation you might have with someone you've only just met – at a conference
for example. What sort of thing can you talk about – and what topics should be avoided? Let's look at how Walter
and Sue get acquainted.
Sue breaks the ice – or starts the conversation.
We can tell from how Sue speaks to Walter, that they haven’t met before. She is very polite, and so is he. But then
she says something more personal, and this is the ‘icebreaker’.
That’s better. My feet are killing me.
Sue is letting Walter know two things – firstly – that she is tired, and secondly that she is willing to have a friendly
conversation with him. By making a more personal, or casual remark, she is inviting him to respond.
No, but I just flew in this morning, and I haven’t had a chance to sit down since then.
To start a conversation like this, it’s fairly safe to talk about what people have just done.
For this, we use the present perfect –‘have’. Practise with Walter some typical questions like this you could ask.
Questions that start with ‘have you’ are yes/no questions, so they have a rising tone:
When answering these questions in a situation like this it is helpful to add some information, not just say yes or no.
If you just say ‘yes’ or ‘no’, people may think you don’t really want to talk.
No.
Oh.
Instead – notice how Sue helps the conversation along by giving some extra information.
No, but I just flew in this morning, and I haven’t had a chance to sit down since then.
Sue has said that she flew in this morning. So this gives Walter an obvious next question.
Questions beginning with ‘where’, ‘when’, ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘who’ are all questions asking for information. Notice the
difference between ‘Where have you come from?’ – meaning where did you fly from, and ‘Where are you from?’ –
meaning what is your nationality.
Notice also the falling tone with these questions: ‘Where have you come from?’
This makes the question sound friendly. But be careful not to ask too many questions like this all together – the
other person may think you’re being too nosy.
Manila.
I’m an accountant.
I’m on business.
Of course – some questions like this are alright – but try not to sound too inquisitive – and offer some information or
ideas yourself.
No, I have been once before, but it was a long time ago.
Yes, it has its points. But you’re lucky to live in Manila. It’s a fascinating city.
Sue doesn’t just answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ – she adds some extra information. And Walter finds the opportunity to give his
opinion, and to compliment the place Sue comes from. Now it’s Sue’s turn to ask a question.
These phrases should be followed by a question. Practise again, with the question to follow.
When meeting someone new on business, but in a social setting – there are a few safe topics – we can talk about
travel and accommodation, basic questions about the other person, about the city you are in, interesting sights to
see, and of course, the weather.
Finally, let’s look at how Walter ends the conversation. He needs to make sure the other person doesn’t think he is
bored.
Excuse me – there’s someone I must talk to. It’s been very nice to meet you.
I hope so.
He gives a reason why he must go, then says ‘It’s been very nice to meet you.’ Practise some useful phrases for
ending a conversation, with Walter and Sue.
So have I.
So do I.
I hope so.
In conversation, when asking questions remember to use a rising tone for yes/no questions – such as those starting
with ‘do you’ or ‘are you.’
Questions starting with ‘Do you’ ask about regular actions, and about likes and dislikes, or opinions:
Questions starting with ‘Are you’ are asking for personal information:
Questions starting with where, when, what, why or who are asking for information, and they often have a falling
tone:
People from different cultures have different ideas about what are reasonable topics for conversation between
strangers – so at first, it is safest to stick to general topics – such as travel, the weather, places, and of course the
business you are in.
And remember, to keep the conversation going – offer information, don’t just ask questions.
That’s all today on the Business of English. See you next time.
B.W
TAN: Well, I’m not convinced that the work is as urgent as this report suggests, so perhaps we should…
DENISE: So, to sum up – I think we are all aware that some urgent work does need to be done, and we will need to
work on a longer term plan for a major refit.
Well, if there’s no more discussion – we’ll put it to a vote. We’re recommending that tenders be called for the urgent
work needed. All those in favour?
Meetings. We love them or hate them – but we have to have them. Of course there are many different kinds of
meetings –from an informal chat, to a Board meeting, or even an Annual General Meeting – and some are more
formal than others – and so the language used in them changes.
Today we’re looking at a more formal meeting – and in particular at the role of the chairperson – or the person who
runs the meeting.
Our Chairperson is Denise. Let’s look at how she starts things off.
Not at all.
Denise first makes sure everyone has an agenda – or a list of the items to be discussed at the meeting.
Then she asks someone to take minutes – or keep a record of the meeting. Then she announces the start of the
meeting – she officially begins it.
Now, you’ve all read the proposal, so without further ado, I’d like to open it up for discussion.
Did you notice the different parts of that introduction by the chairperson?
First, she thanked people for attending the meeting. Even though it may be their job – it’s good practice to thank
people for attending.
Next, Denise states the objective of the meeting. Of course a meeting may have more than one objective, but often
meetings have one main objective, or aim.
The Chair should state the objective of the meeting. In this case it is to discuss a proposal, and to reach a decision.
A proposal is simply a more formal word for a suggestion – but it is usually a detailed suggestion, in a written form.
Now, you’ve all read the proposal, so without further ado, I’d like to open it up for discussion.
Denise says ‘without further ado, I’d like to open it up for discussion’.
‘Without further ado’ just means without any more procedure. We’re going to discuss it straight away. Then she says
‘I’d like to open it up for discussion.’ ‘it’ refers to the proposal she has just outlined.
Okay – now, you can open a topic for general discussion – which means anyone can have a say. The Chairperson
controls the discussion. Or, the Chairperson may invite particular people to speak. This is what Denise does – watch
again…
Denise invites Tan to start the discussion. Let’s practise a few phrases for asking someone to speak…
Another job for the Chair is to summarise the discussion – that is, concisely state the main points made during the
meeting.
So, to sum up – I think we are all aware that some urgent work does need to be done, and we will need to work on a
longer term plan for a major refit.
Denise summarises the main points from the discussion. To introduce this she could use various phrases – practise
these:
To sum up…
In summary…
The outcome of a meeting might be a suggestion for an action. Depending on what kind of meeting it is, this could
be called a motion, or a recommendation. In our example, Denise puts the recommendation of the meeting to a
vote.
Well, if there’s no more discussion – let’s put the recommendation to a vote. We’re recommending tenders be called
for the urgent work needed. All those in agreement?
Anyone against?
Then that’s agreed.. Any other business?
Then we’ll close the meeting. Thankyou everyone. The next meeting will be in two weeks, at the same time.
Notice how Denise controls the meeting – she doesn’t say ‘Is there any more discussion?’ She says ‘If there’s no
more discussion we’ll put it to a vote.’ She is controlling the meeting by moving on. She then reiterates, or re-states
the recommendation and calls for votes by saying ‘All those in favour’ – that is those who agree, and ‘All those
against’. Votes are only taken in a formal meeting procedure – in a less formal procedure, a decision can be taken
by consensus – by everyone agreeing during the discussion.
Notice that after the vote, Denise says ‘Then that’s agreed.’ A meeting agrees, or doesn’t agree to a
recommendation. If it’s a more formal motion – we say the motion is ‘carried’ or ‘not carried’.
Often at the end of the meeting a chairperson will call for ‘any other business’, before they officially announce the
meeting is closed, and announce the time for the next meeting.
5 - Hear Hear!
TAN: Well, I'm not convinced that the work is as urgent as this report suggests, so perhaps we should…
DENISE: Sorry Lin - I don't think Tan had finished. We'll get to you in a minute.
LIN: Sorry.
TAN: As I was saying, perhaps we should get a second opinion before we spend any money.
WALTER: Well, as far as I'm concerned, it's a question of safety. So I think we should go ahead.
WALTER: In my opinion, yes. If you ask me, there is a serious risk of an accident. And it's not a recent problem…
DENISE: All comments through the chair if you don't mind Walter. Parking isn't on the agenda for this meeting -
perhaps you could suggest it for our next meeting Barbara. Well, if there's no more discussion - we'll put it it to a
vote.
Today we're looking again at meetings. In meetings, especially formal meetings, it's important to keep the
discussion relevant, and to the point. So we're looking at some words and phrases that a Chairperson might use to
stop irrelevant discussion and interruptions. We're also looking at ways of stating an opinion, and agreeing or
disagreeing.
First of all - notice how Tan states that he doesn't agree with the report.
Well, I'm not convinced that the work is as urgent as this report suggests.
Tan says 'I'm not convinced.' He means he disagrees with the report. But by saying he's 'not convinced' - he is
leaving himself open to another point of view.
Notice that all of these ways of disagreeing are polite. If you use stronger terms of disagreement - it can sound rude,
or argumentative.
Well, I'm not convinced that the work is as urgent as this report suggests, so perhaps...
Don't be ridiculous!
Excuse me?
When disagreeing, the speaker normally also gives a reason for their opinion, and may use an expression showing
that it is their opinion. Listen to Walter.
Well, as far as I'm concerned, it's a question of safety. So I think we should go ahead.
In my opinion, yes.
Let's practise some phrases you can use to introduce your opinion about something.
In my opinion...
Notice that Tan asks for clarification of the point Walter makes. He wants to make sure he understands what Walter
is saying.
Let’s look at some ways of seeking clarification, and checking understanding. Practise these with Tan.
One of the roles of the Chairperson is to make sure everyone gets to have their say. All discussion should go
through the chair - that is, people talk to the Chairperson, not to each other directly. So the Chairperson sometimes
has to interrupt, or stop someone from speaking. Let's see how Denise does this.
Well, I'm not convinced that the work is as urgent as this report suggests, so perhaps...
Sorry Lin - I don't think Tan had finished. We'll get to you in a minute.
Sorry.
By saying 'I don't think Tan had finished', Denise is politely telling Lin that she shouldn't interrupt, and Lin
apologises. But what should you do if someone keeps trying to interrupt?
So perhaps...
Sorry Lin - I don't think Tan had finished. We'll get to you in a minute.
Notice that the language the chairperson uses is always polite, but firm. She uses 'sorry' 'thankyou' and 'please' as
a way of respecting the other members of the committee - although she is in charge.
On the other hand, there is a time factor - it may be necessary to cut people short.
...and furthermore, if we look more closely at some of the estimates, we can see...
Yes but we do have to keep an eye on the time. Perhaps we can come back to that point later.
It is important, but I think it's more important we hear everyone's views on this. Barbara?
There were two key phrases used to stop Tan from sending everyone to sleep. The first one - 'perhaps we should
move on' is phrased as a suggestion - but it is said in a firm way - with a falling intonation at the end.
This falling intonation makes it a more definite statement, rather than a suggestion.
The second one was put as a reason for moving on - that time is short - notice the emphasis on the word 'do', and
practise after me:
Remember we said the discussion has to be relevant. What do we do if someone makes an irrelevant comment?
What about the problem with parking. There were no places again this morning.
All comments through the chair if you don't mind Walter. Parking isn't on the agenda for this meeting -
perhaps you could suggest it for our next meeting Barbara.
'All comments through the Chair if you don't mind'. This is a way of reminding Walter of correct meeting procedure.
'All comments through the chair' means he must speak to the meeting, not directly to one person at the table.
Denise suggests that 'Parking isn't on the agenda for this meeting'. But so that Barbara doesn't feel bad - she
suggests it could be discussed at another time.
Finally - we've looked at disagreeing, let's look at ways of agreeing with a point.
Are you implying we should have done something earlier?
Much earlier. It's a real concern.
Hear hear!
I think so too.
Agreeing is simpler than disagreeing, as you don't have to state a reason. Repeat these phrases after me:
I agree
I agree
In that case, I agree.
In that case, I agree.
I'll go along with you.
I'll go along with you.
I couldn't agree more.
I couldn't agree more.
That's right.
That's right.
I concur.
I concur.
Absolutely!
Absolutely!
Let's review some of the other important expressions we've looked at in today's episode.
When giving opinions in a meeting, it's important to use phrases such as 'in my opinion'; 'From my point of view' or 'I
think' - instead of just stating your opinions as facts. This is respectful of other people who may have different views.
But when you strongly agree with something someone else says - you can say 'Hear Hear!'
That's all for today - see you next time on The Business of English.
BARBARA: Well, looking at increasing staff versus automation, we have to consider the cost. Automating has a
higher capital cost than putting on more staff. On the other hand, employing more people is more expensive over a
long term. If we keep growing, it'll cost more in the long run.
TAN: Outsourcing? Well, it does take the problem off our hands. But we lose contact with our customers.
BARBARA: Outsourcing is the cheapest option, and the easiest - in the short term. But if we want to keep the
operation in-house, the best option is automating our system. The only down side is, we're taking a risk that our
business will keep growing.
We've looked before at formal meetings. Today's meeting is a more informal one, to discuss a specific issue. The
discussion is more free-flowing, or uncontrolled. Let's look first at some of the language used by Denise when she
introduces the problem.
Now we're looking at the options for handling our on-line orders. They're going through the roof and frankly
the lead-time for delivery is blowing out. We need to improve our performance in this area.
'Options' are different solutions, or answers, to a problem. What is the problem? 'On-line orders are going through
the roof'.
'On-line orders' are orders for goods received through the internet, and if they're 'going through the roof', they are
increasing in number very rapidly.
The 'lead-time' for delivery is the amount of time it takes from when the order is received to when it's delivered, and
if it's 'blowing out' - that time is becoming too long. We use the expression 'blowing out' for something which is
becoming too great, in a bad way.
So to 'improve our performance' means, in this case, to shorten the time it takes to deliver goods.
Well, as I see it, we have three options. The obvious one is to employ more people to do the job. Another
alternative is to automate the system more - cut down on the physical handling.
We could outsource.
Tan describes three options. First he lets us know that this is his opinion, by saying 'As I see it'.
Practise with Tan some different ways of letting someone know that what you're stating is your opinion.
The three options are: employ more people, automate, and outsource.
To 'outsource' means to use an outside company. When presenting different options, we can order them by
numbers, like this. Firstly, we could employ more people, secondly we could automate, and thirdly we could
outsource.
We can also use phrases, such as 'one option is to' and 'another option is to...'
We can also use linking words, such as 'or' and 'alternatively'.
Or, we can use a combination of these methods.
When considering two options, we are comparing them. Barbara talks about increasing staff versus automation.
She is saying that she is going to compare these two things. Another phrase she could use is 'as against'. Practise
with her.
Listen to Barbara again, and see if you can hear the two comparative adjectives.
Automating has a higher capital cost than putting on more staff. On the other hand, employing more people
is more expensive over a long term.
She says automating has a higher capital cost than putting on more staff. 'Higher' is a comparative adjective.
We often use 'than' for the option that is being compared. Remember for words of longer than two syllables, we use
'more' for the comparative. Employing more people is 'more expensive'. Because Barbara has already said what the
second option is, automating, she doesn't need to say 'employing more people is more expensive than automating'.
Notice that she uses the phrase 'on the other hand'. This is used to introduce another side to an argument. Practise
this with Barbara.
Another way of comparing two ideas is to use linking words such as 'but' ,'although' and 'however'.
Automation is expensive, but it's more efficient.
Denise asks how likely continued growth is. In looking at words to describe likelihood, we can use these words:
unlikely
Possible
Probable
Certain
So we can say:
It's unlikely
It's possible
And so on.
We can also qualify these with words such as 'very' 'quite', 'highly' or reasonably
It's a certainty
It's a possibility
There's a probability
There's a high likelihood
But we don't say 'there's an unlikelihood. We say 'There's no likelihood.'
Finally, look at what happens when we compare more than two options.
Outsourcing is the cheapest option, and the easiest - in the short term. But if we want to keep the operation in-
house, the best option is automating our system.
Did you hear the superlative adjectives used to compare more than two things.
7 - A Report on Progress
DENISE: Today we're looking at our new widget plant being built at Southside. I've asked Barbara to report on
progress and bring us up to date and up to speed. Barbara?
BARBARA: Thanks Denise. I'll just outline the process we've been through, identify some problems, and give you
an estimate on completion time and the outcome financially.
BARBARA: Bear with me. Now, if you recall, after a feasibility study, we put the project out to tender eighteen
months ago, and selected Ezybuild as our project manager.
Work commenced about fifteen months ago, and it's been progressing to schedule until recently.
BARBARA: Unfortunately there are three: Firstly, there's been a delay in materials - specifically steel because of
industrial issues at the suppliers. Secondly, we've lost days due to the weather. And finally, there's been a resulting
cost blowout.
BARBARA: Well, they've managed to get another supplier now. I suggested moving the completion date back. That
way, there's no penalty, and they agreed to re-deploy their workers until building can start again.
BARBARA: We've been waiting for the rain to stop - but we can't control the weather!
BARBARA: At this stage, just a small overage. But I'll be watching it very closely over the next few months. With no
more delays, we're expecting to complete the project just one month behind schedule.
JOHN: Humph
Today's episode is a focussed meeting with a specific purpose. Barbara has been asked to report on the progress of
a project. Our focus today is on the verb tenses she uses to report. Firstly, let's look at how Denise asks for
Barbara's report.
Today we're looking today at our new widget plant being built at Southside. I've asked Barbara to report on
progress and bring us all up to date and up to speed.
'We're looking' or 'We are looking' - because she's telling them what they are doing, and what they are going to do
at the meeting now.
She doesn't use the simple present 'we look', because that is used for regular actions.
She uses the present perfect tense: 'I have asked' because she asked Barbara to report before the meeting, and
Baraba is about to give her report
And she wants Barbara to bring them 'up to date' and 'up to speed'.
These are common expressions - to bring someone 'up to date' is to tell them what has happened up to the present.
And to bring someone 'up to speed' is to make sure they know all the relevant facts.
Thanks Denise. I'll just outline the process we've been through, identify some problems, and give you an
estimate on completion time and the outcome financially.
She uses the future tense: I will, because she's talking about something she's going to do in the next few minutes.
Notice that the 'will' is not repeated, but it applies to all three of the things she says she is going to do.
Now, if you recall, after a feasibility study, we put the project out to tender eighteen months ago, and
selected Ezybuild as our project manager.
Because Barbara is describing events in the past, she uses the simple past tense.
We put the project out to tender.
We selected Ezybuild as the project manager.
There's been a delay; 'we've lost days'; 'there's been a cost blowout.'
Present perfect tense is used to describe events which began in the past and are still true now.
In business it can be important to use the correct verb tense - using the wrong one can change the meaning - for
example, if Barbara said 'There was a delay' - it means this delay happened in the past, and there is no delay now.
If she says 'there is a delay', she means that delay is still happening - they are still losing time.
But if she says 'there has been a delay', she means the delay started in the past and has continued up until the
present. But as we'll see - she is now fixing the problem.
Well, they've managed to get another supplier now. I suggested moving the completion date back. That way, there's
no penalty, and they agreed to re-deploy their workers until building can start again.
Let's look at the verb tenses here...
'They've managed to get another supplier.' They managed to get another supplier in the past, and that supplier is
still now supplying the materials.
I suggested moving the completion date back. She suggested it at a particular time in the past.
They agreed to redeploy their workers - they agreed at a particular time in the past. Redeployed means they were
sent to work somewhere else.
We've been waiting for the rain to stop - but we can't control the weather!
At this stage, just a small overage. But I'll be watching it very closely over the next few months. With no
more delays, we're expecting to complete the project just one month behind schedule.
We're expecting - we are expecting at the moment, and we will continue to expect in the future.
She says 'and the cost?' The upward inflection in her voice - 'and the cost?' tells us this is a question, although it's
not a complete sentence. The complete sentence would be - 'What will it cost?' In spoken English, this is very
common.
Practise some examples with Denise.
Today we looked at reporting back. Remember, first summarise what you are going to report on. We also focussed
on the different verb tenses, which help exact meaning.
That's all we have time for today, so I hope we'll be seeing you next time for The Business of English.
JOHN: What was the reason for the sudden drop in July?
TAN: This was mainly due to a drop off in air conditioner sales - so it's a seasonal effect.
DENISE: Could it be a consequence of the negative effect of the interest rate rise?
TAN: Possibly. Now, if I could draw your attention to this next diagram. This is a line graph of sales - the blue line
represents air conditioner sales, the red line shows heaters. As you'll note, air conditioner sales dropped steadily
from January to July, bottoming out then, while heater sales experienced a sharp increase from March to June, then
dropped markedly from June to July, then declined through to September, with a pronounced drop in October.
TAN: Largely - if we look at this pie diagram, you can see that air conditioners and heaters together represent more
than half of our total sales - but they vary seasonally, while other appliances are fairly steady through the year.
JOHN: Well, we can't sell air conditioners when it's cold. What's the solution?
Today we're looking at presenting information using charts and graphs. We saw three types of
diagram:
A bar or column graph
A line graph
And a pie chart.
Look at how Tan introduced his presentation
Now, I'd like to refer to the first graph - as you can see this is a bar graph measuring net sales over the first
nine months of the year.
Tan says 'I'd like to refer to the first graph.'
When referring to a diagram or graph, first direct your audience's attention to that diagram. Practise with Tan some
phrases to use for this.
I'd like to refer to the first graph...
This levelled off, then there was a dramatic drop, and then a significant increase.
In describing trends, we use two words - one of those words is a noun or verb.
For example we may talk about an increase, or a decrease in numbers. Other words for an increase are rise, climb,
improvement, upturn.
Most of these words can also be used as a verb: to increase; to rise; to climb; to improve.
These also have verbs from them: to decrease; to fall; to decline; to worsen.
So we say - there was an improvement in the figures for April, or the figures for April have improved.
There has been a decline in sales since June, or sales since June have declined.
But we often add more descriptive words -adjectives and adverbs. Remember adjectives go before nouns, and
adverbs go after verbs.
These describe the change in figures - was it big or small, fast or slow?
Other words for a big change are significant, marked, massive, pronounced, substantial.
Most adjectives can also be made into adverbs, just by adding 'ly' or 'lee'. There is no adverb for 'big', but informally
we say 'a lot'.
Other words for small are slight, insignificant, and their adverbs slightly, insignifanctly.
Other words for a fast or quick change are sharp, dramatic, sudden, and again we add 'ly' for the adverbs.
And for a slow or medium change, we can use steady or moderate, and the adverbs steadily and moderately
Now - try changing the phrases from noun phrases into verb phrases - for example - if Tan says 'There was a
dramatic increase in sales' - you say 'Sales increased dramatically.'
Have a try.
There was a steady rise in sales.
This was mainly due to the drop off in air conditioner sales - so it's a seasonal effect.
A consequence of
The drop in sales is a consequence of an interest rate rise.
Because of
The drop in sales is because of an interest rate rise.
A result of
The drop in sales is a result of an interest rate rise.
And that's accounted for our time today in the Business of English. See you next time.
9 - A Customer Survey
TAN: Today I’m going to look at the results of our customer survey. First I’ll go through the survey questions, then
summarise the results, and finally I’ll outline the conclusions. After that, there’ll be time for questions and discussion.
So, let’s start with the survey questions...
Turning to the results, as you can see from the diagram, most people decided what to buy when they saw the
product at the showroom. About one third made their decision based on what the salesperson said. The others
knew what they wanted to buy already. Most of those made their decision on the recommendation of a friend. Only
a few said they relied on advertising...
Let’s move on to the conclusions.The first one is that it’s very important that salespeople on the floor know about
our products. Another is that after-sales service is critical. People who experience good after-sales service are more
likely to recommend a brand.And finally, advertising – it’s expensive, so we need to make sure we’re getting results.
In today's program, we look again at a presentation. Tan is presenting the results of a survey. Let's see how he does
it. How does Tan start his presentation?
Today I'm going to look at the results of our customer survey.
When giving a presentation it's important to state clearly what you are going to talk about at the beginning. What is
your topic?
For this, Tan uses the future tense 'I'm going to…'. He could also have said 'I will…'
There's one more sequencing signal in his introduction. Did you hear it?
After that, there'll be time for questions and discussion.
Even though Tan said 'finally' he would talk about conclusions, he has something 'after that'. This is because the
questions are not part of his presentation. He's telling his audience that after he's talked about conclusions, it will be
time to ask questions.
So sequencing words are very useful - they tell your audience how many parts are in your talk - and they can signal
when you are moving from one topic to the next one. Sequencing words are words like firstly, secondly, thirdly, then,
next, finally, after that, following that, and later on. Another type of signal can be used to show you are moving from
one part of your talk to another.
Here are three that Tan uses - practise them with him.
So, let's start with the questions...
Stress occurs in words, and sentences. In words - one syllable is stressed. The wrong stress makes it hard to
understand. So:
Conclusion, not conclusion
Products, not products.
Even more important in speaking, is to stress the important words in a sentence. This helps the meaning of what
you are saying - it gives emphasis.
So Tan says Let's move on to the conclusions, stressing 'conclusions' because it's the key word in this sentence.
The other words stressed are the key words for understanding.
Let's listen to Tan once more, noting the pauses, intonation, word and sentence stress.
Let's move on to the conclusions. The first one is that it's very important that salespeople on the floor know about
our products. Another is that after-sales service is critical.
Let's look at the diagram, and how we can describe numbers, or statistics.
First, Tan says 'most people decided what to buy at the showroom'.
Because more people decided at the showroom than at home, we can say 'most', 'the majority', or 'over half'.
To describe people deciding at home, which is less than fifty percent, we could say 'a minority' or 'less than half'.
Looking at the reasons for decisions, we are comparing four groups of people. We can use descriptive words such
as 'many', 'some', ' a few'.
And we can say 'the greatest number' or 'the highest percentage'.
And we can use words like approximately, about, nearly, over and under.
10 - Wrapping it up
BARBARA: So, I'd like to end with a summary of what I've looked at today, and some recommendations.
The figures show that sales are strongly seasonal, and that customers depend on good information on the
showroom floor. So I'd like to recommend we concentrate on discounting in the off-seasons, and spend more time
on briefing our sales representatives.
That's all I have for now. Are there any questions?
DENISE: You mentioned that the sales figures may also reflect economic trends. Can you expand on that?
BARBARA: Well, we are always going to depend on the economy. As I understand it, we can look forward to an
improvement this year. Does that answer your question?
BARBARA: Well, I'm afraid that's a bit outside my area of expertise, but that's what the papers are suggesting.
DENISE: You suggested that we might be spending too much on advertising. Can you clarify that?
BARBARA: We don't have the figures to really know how effective our advertising is.
DENISE: In my experience you can't do without advertising.
BARBARA: Okay, we'll wrap up now. Thankyou for your input everyone.
DENISE: Thankyou.
Today we're looking at how to end a presentation, and how to deal with questions. Let's look first at how Barbara
concludes, or finishes her presentation.
I'd like to end with a summary of what I've looked at today, and some recommendations.
Barbara says she'd like to end with a summary, and some recommendations.
When ending a presentation or a talk, you may do this with a summary - this is a short statement of your main
points - with a conclusion, which is a result of all the information you've presented, or recommendations, which are
things you think should be done. In all cases, they should be clear and concise, or not too long.
Practise with Barbara some phrases you can use to introduce your final points.
I'd like to end with some recommendations
To summarise...
My recommendations are...
Let's look at how Barbara finishes her talk, and asks for questions.
That's all I have for now. Are there any questions?
Here's Barbara with some useful phrases for you to practise if asking for questions.
Are there any questions?
In the question you can ask the speaker to respond in different ways. Denise asks her to expand, but she could also
clarify (or make clearer), or explain further. Practise some phrases you can use for this:
Can you expand on that?
Notice that she also checks whether Denise is satisfied with her answer by saying:
'Does that answer your question?'
If she wanted to, Denise could ask a further question, but Tan does it for her.
Are you saying we're in for a period of growth?
Well, I'm afraid that's a bit outside my area of expertise, but that's what the papers are suggesting.
Tan is asking for clarification. He wants Barbara to say more about her point. He does this by checking that he has
understood her.
Practise with Tan some phrases you can use to ask for clarification.
Are you saying..?
We don't have the figures to really know how effective our advertising is.
Notice that, as before, Denise restates what she thinks Barbara said, by saying 'You suggested that…' then asks
her to clarify, by saying 'Can you clarify that? And Tan asks her to repeat something simply by asking 'Could you
repeat that?' Notice too that when Barbara answers Tan, she uses different words. If someone asks you to repeat,
or clarify, it's better to rephrase, than simply say the same thing again. Notice how Denise puts in her own comment.
I have one.
Yes John?
Thankyou.
The person giving the talk is in control, so she needs to signal that she is finished. She does this by saying 'Time for
one last question.'
LIN: Yes, this is Lin Chan from Acme Appliances. I'd like to speak to Mr Wilson if he's available please?
TAMMY: I'll just see if he's available - hold the line please.
It's a Lin Chan from Acme.
*************
LIN: Ah yes, Mr Wilson. Thanks for calling back. I wanted to set up a meeting with you to discuss your requirements
for next year.
WILSON: Goodbye
When we use the phone we can't see the other person, so we have to listen carefully and speak clearly. Often we
deal with a switchboard operator or personal assistant, but the language we use on the phone follows conventions.
Wilson & Wilson, can I help you?
Yes, this is Lin Chan from Acme Appliances. I'd like to speak to Mr Wilson if he's available please?
When answering the phone, a switchboard operator will usually say the name of the company, then 'can I help you?'
or 'How can I help you?'
Or they may not say anything after the name of the company. In any case, the caller normally says their name, by
saying 'this is' and their name, then the name of their company after the words 'from' or 'of', and then who they
would like to speak to.
Don't wait to be asked, but offer the information. On the phone, unless you know the other party personally, always
use polite, formal language.
Wilson & Wilson. What do you want?
Often it's not convenient to speak to someone straight away. 'If he's available' really means, 'If he wants to speak to
me at the moment.' Here's some useful phrases for asking for someone on the phone:
Is Mr Wilson available please?
Here are a few simple phrases to use when leaving a message. Practise them with Lin.
Could you ask him to phone me please.
9882 6776
nine double eight two, six double seven six
or
nine eight eight two, six seven seven six.
And the receptionist must also make sure she has all the details correct.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
First Lin thanks him for calling back. She says 'Thanks for calling back'. She could also say, 'Thankyou for returning
my call.' Then she states the purpose of her call, and they make the arrangements for the meeting. Because she
wants the meeting, Lin lets Wilson suggest a time. This is polite, because he is the customer in this situation. Then
he says 'I look forward to seeing you then.'
Again, this is a polite way of ending a conversation - as well as being a signal that there is no more to say.
Notice too, that Lin repeats the day and time of the meeting so that both people are sure about it.
Let's now just review the key phrases for phone calls when calling someone, and making an arrangement.
12 - Negotiating part 1
LIN: Hello, Lin Chan, Sales Manager for National Sugar - and my associate John Martin.
VICTOR: Very pleased to meet you. I'm Victor Tang, and this is my legal adviser Sue Panay.
LIN: Well, we'd better get down to business. Mr Tang, to start off with, I just want to say we believe we can offer you
a very good deal and come up with a win-win result.
VICTOR: Well, from our point of view, we see it as an exploratory talk - testing the water you might say.
SUE: We don't intend to reach any agreements at this meeting - in any case we would need to run it past our board
first.
JOHN: You haven't heard our terms yet - you may find them hard to resist!
(Victor and Sue exchange a raised eyebrow)
LIN: Of course we understand you need time to consider any offer. My first priority is to keep the negotiations open.
LIN: We're prepared to offer a very attractive price for a minimum sale, in exchange for a two-year contract. John
will clarify the terms.
A negotiation is a discussion that should result in an agreement or business contract. The discussion is usually
between two parties - or organisations - trying to reach an agreement satisfactory to both.
In a negotiation, we need to reach a position that it is not too difficult for either side to accept, so the language we
use is important - and it's also important to listen carefully.
When starting a negotiation, begin with a greeting, and what we call 'small-talk' - something to 'break the ice', or
make the meeting a friendly one.
Hello, Lin Chan, Sales Manager for National Sugar - and my associate John Martin.
Very pleased to meet you. I'm Victor Tang, and this is my legal adviser Sue Panay.
Before they start the negotiations, John asks about their journey. He says 'I hope you had a pleasant flight', and
asks how long they are staying. This way, the negotiation starts in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Here are a few phrases you could use to put the other party at ease.
I hope you had a pleasant flight.
Sue: We don't intend to reach any agreements at this meeting - in any case we would need to run it past our board
first.
Victor says 'from our point of view', and Lin says 'we don't intend'. They use the words 'our' and 'we', instead of 'my'
and 'I' because they are talking as representatives of the company, not as individuals. If Victor was on his own, he
might use 'I' and 'my' - especially as the C.E.O. of the company. Here are some other phrases Victor could use to
state their point of view:
'From our perspective...'
'Our position is that...'
'As far as we're concerned...'
Victor says they see it as an 'exploratory talk'. He means they are 'exploring options', or finding out what Lin has to
offer. He is suggesting by this that they aren't going to make a decision at this meeting - and he is letting Lin know
this. He describes this in another way by saying they are 'testing the water'.
Notice too that Sue reinforces this. She says 'we don't intend to reach any agreements at this meeting.' She is
stating clearly the outcome that they are expecting from the meeting. She says they would have to 'run past the
board' any proposals made. A proposal is a formal offer or suggestion made by one business to another, and to 'run
something past the board' means to get the board's approval or feedback. In a negotiation, each party needs to
respond to what the other says for the negotiation to proceed.
You haven't heard our terms yet - you may find them hard to resist! (Victor and Sue exchange a raised eyebrow)
John hasn't listened to what Victor and Sue have said, and they don't like it. But Lin makes a conciliatory statement.
That is, she makes a concession. She backs down from her first position. When negotiating, you usually need to
make some concessions to reach an agreement. If nobody makes a concession, the negotiation can't proceed...like
this...
I just want to say we believe we can offer you a very good deal and come up with a win-win result.
Well, from our point of view, we see it as an exploratory talk - testing the water you might say.
Why bother the board? We can settle this deal right now!
We're prepared to offer a very attractive price for a minimum sale, in exchange for a two-year contract. John will
clarify the terms.
Let's review the main points from today. In negotiations, begin with introductions and then some informal talk. Then
each side makes an opening statement -this should state clearly what they want to achieve.
Then, whichever party called the meeting begins the negotiation by giving an opening proposal.
And remember - it's important to listen to signals and the opening statements carefully, otherwise the negotiation
can quickly go in the wrong direction.
That's all for The Business of English for today. See you next time.
VICTOR: Yes, well, we're prepared to consider your offer Ms Chan, if you can accept some conditions.
VICTOR: Well, firstly the price you're proposing. Would that be variable depending on currency fluctuations? The
issue is that we're in an unstable environment at the moment - the exchange rate could affect us negatively.
JOHN: Us too!
VICTOR: True, but the problem is that we're tied to the U.S. dollar.
VICTOR: Another problem we may have is that of supply. Our customers often need supply at short notice. If we do
get large orders, we need to guarantee delivery - so we need to stockpile. The difficulty there is the capital outlay.
How would you feel about a partial offset against our sales?
SUE: Would you be agreeable to a deferred payment? We can provide security of course.
LIN: I think that would be acceptable. Unfortunately, I would need to get Board approval for it.
SUE: Of course.
LIN: In principle.
He doesn't say 'we agree to your offer', he says 'we're prepared to consider your offer'.
He is signalling to the other side that there is a chance for agreement by using the word 'consider', which means
'think about'.
He then makes this conditional by saying 'if you can accept some conditions'. In English, using the word 'if' in this
way is called a conditional.
Victor is saying 'We can consider your offer if you can accept some conditions.' One part of the sentence is
conditional on, or depending on the other.
The negative is also true. If they can't accept the conditions, Victor can't consider the offer.
Notice that Sue adds: 'subject to consideration by the board'. 'Subject to' is another type of conditional phrase. She
means 'We can agree if the board agrees.' 'Subject to' is a legal phrase meaning 'only if', or 'only after'. There are a
number of expressions you can use when giving a condition. Try them after me:
...subject to the board's agreement.
Notice that he explains what the problem is... He says 'The issue is that we're in an unstable environment.'
'The issue' means the problem, or the thing that needs discussing.
One thing that could happen is that the exchange rate, the amount of money you can exchange in one currency for
another, may change. Notice that Victor uses the words 'would' and 'could'.
'Would' is like a conditional. One thing might result in another thing happening.
The exchange rate might change.
Victor is talking about the price for their product. He asks 'would that be variable depending on currency
fluctuations'. 'Fluctuations' are changes. We can express this another way: 'If the currency changes, will the price
change?' 'Could' is used to express a possibility - something that might happen.
Victor says 'the exchange rate could affect us negatively'. Notice that you can say something will affect you
negatively - it will have a negative, or bad effect, or positively - it will have a positive , or good effect.
We can give both questions and answers using these 'could' and 'would' phrases. Practise them after Lin and Victor.
Would you consider hedging against currency?
I think that would be acceptable. Unfortunately, I would need to get Board approval for it.
Sue uses the phrase 'would you be agreeable'. 'Would you be agreeable to a deferred payment.' A deferred
payment is when you pay later for something you buy. Lin thinks this condition is acceptable, but she makes it
conditional on Board approval by saying 'I would need to get Board approval.' Notice the stress on 'would'. Practise
some phrases you can use for this type of condition.
That would have to have Board approval.
So it's very important when negotiating to listen for words that signal a condition: words like 'if', 'could','would',
'provided' or 'providing', 'as long as' and 'subject to'.
And words that might signal a problem, such as 'problem', 'unfortunately', and 'however'.
Notice that even at the end, they are being careful about what they say.
Then I think we might have a deal!
In principle.
Lin agrees 'in principle'. This means they have agreed on terms among themselves, but as she needs Board
approval, she can't authorise the agreement right now.
And right now we've reached the end of today's program. See you next time on the Business of English.
14 - A Formal Speech
DENISE: Our keynote speaker is a man who I'm sure is very well known to all of you. He's Professor of Fruitology at
Dubbo University and has written many books on the subject of tropical fruit. So without further ado, I'd like to
introduce our keynote speaker, Doctor Sam Eriks.
*********
Ladies and gentlemen, I hope I've been able to clear up a few misconceptions, and leave you with some new ideas
about how we might view bananas in the future.
We've seen, in looking at their history, that bananas have a significant role in many cultures. I've also noted their
positive nutritional qualities. And in addressing the main question, why bananas are bent - we've learned that the
reasons are many and complex.
Madam Chair, thankyou for the opportunity to address the conference today, and thankyou ladies and gentleman for
your kind attention.
Making a formal speech to an audience is a scary thing for many people - even more so if it's in a language that is
not your first language. What are the things you can do to prepare a formal speech in English? First of all, let's look
at the structure of the speech. In a formal situation, like a keynote address, the speaker will be introduced by
someone else.
Our keynote speaker is a man who I'm sure is very well known to all of you. He's Professor of Fruitology at Dubbo
University and has written many books on the subject of tropical fruit.
When introducing a speaker, research their background and accomplishments - that is, the important things they've
done, such as books they may have written, important positions they've filled, and of course their proper title or
qualifications, such as Professor.
Here are some useful phrases to use when introducing a speaker. Practise them with Denise:
Our next speaker is well known to all of you.
The Honourable Judith Bryant, Minister for Trade, Professor Eric Vogel, Professor of economics at Wagga
University, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.
If there is a representative of government, such as a minister, they would be acknowledged first - then any other
people of particular note.
Then he addresses 'distinguished guests' - this can include anyone who has been invited to attend the event. And
finally he says 'ladies and gentlemen', which means everyone else.
The history of bananas, the many qualities of bananas, and the uses of the banana.
In describing his topic, he said 'I felt it would be appropriate to address…' and then names the parts of his speech.
To 'address' something here means to talk about it. You could also use words like 'consider', 'discuss', 'outline',
'cover'.
Pronunciation is important too - it's a good idea to practise your speech out loud - especially any difficult words.
I've also noted their positive nutrishal, nutrishishional, nutritional qualities.
What does Doctor Eriks do next in his speech?
But first let me tell you a story about a banana.
He says he is going to tell a story about a banana. When making a speech, it's good to put in some personal
touches - a story of something that happened or a joke.
We've seen;
'I've noted';
'we've learned'.
There are other phrases that could be used in this way:
SAM: Thankyou.
VICTOR: Well, it has been a great pleasure to meet you Sam, and Lin.
LIN: Yes, it's been great. What a pity you have to go home.
VICTOR: Well, all good things must come to an end. But I'm sure we'll meet again.
LIN: And good luck with your business. I'm sure it will go well.
SAM: Well, I think we should drink a toast to the end of the conference, and to ourselves. Here's to us.
Cheers
VICTOR: Cheers
LIN: Cheers.
LIN: Yes.
VICTOR: Thankyou. I'll send you an email. And if you're ever in Singapore, you must look me up.
SAM: We certainly will. And you have my number. When you're next in Sydney, give me a call - we'll have a drink.
VICTOR: Goodbye.
For the final programme in the series we're looking at some of the phrases you may use when you're saying
goodbye to someone - either for a short time, or a long time. In our example, Victor is from another country, and he's
about to go back home. At a conference, he's met Sam and Lin.
It has been a great pleasure to meet you Sam and Lin.
If someone says 'It's been a pleasure to meet you', the reply can be 'A pleasure to meet you too', or just 'And you.'
Victor also says 'I'm sure we'll meet again.'
Here are some useful phrases to do with meeting again. Practise them with Victor.
I'm sure we'll meet again.
Another part of saying goodbye can be wishing someone well for the future.
And good luck with your business. I'm sure it will go well.
Cheers
Cheers.
This is an informal toast. Sam says 'I think we should drink a toast'.
Another phrase he could use is: 'Let's drink to' - for example… 'Let's drink to the end of the conference' or 'Let's
drink to our future meeting'. Then they clink their glasses together and say 'Cheers'.
Lin: Cheers
And of course, the toast doesn't have to be alcohol - it can be any kind of drink.
The next part of their conversation is about keeping in touch - or keeping in contact.
We should keep in touch.
Yes.
Here's my card.
We certainly will. And you have my number. When you're next in Sydney, give me a call - we'll have a drink.
To 'look someone up' just means to arrange a meeting. When Victor says 'You must look me up', he is inviting Sam
and Lin to meet him if they are in Singapore. This is more of a social invitation, than a business one. Using the word
'must' is not like an order here - it suggests that Victor will be very happy if Sam sees him in Singapore.
In the same way, Sam says 'Give me a call' to Victor. It sounds like an order, but in fact it's an invitation. It's
important to get the intonation - the way you say it - right - so that it sounds like an invitation, and not an order.
You must look me up when you're in Singapore.
And if I don't?
Goodbye.
There are a few ways of saying goodbye - but the simplest and best is simply 'Goodbye'. Sam says 'Bon voyage' - a
French phrase which is also quite common for someone who is travelling.
Now, let's review and practise some of the phrases we've learnt today.
It's been a pleasure to meet you.
Be strong.
I know we will.
Goodbye.
Well, I've enjoyed helping you with 'The Business of English', and I hope you've enjoyed
learning some useful phrases and expressions in English - and that you'll be able to put them into practice soon.