my husband Adam Ben Ahmed
who created this site few years ago (2010).
He keeps improving this space as time goes by.
He is pleased to contribute volunteeraly in achieving my dreams in boosting vocational English learning and entrepreneurship.
My Resources - English Learning Resources (Employment)
A: I was wondering if you could help me use the Student Job Center.
B: There are many ways; what kind of job would you like?
A: I want to work in a restaurant.
B: Fine! Will you need part-time or full-time work?
A: I want to work part-time.
B: Fine, the two best ways are to use our local listings binders over there or you can use the computers with the Internet job listing sites. See them over there?
A: Yes, I know what to do.
B: Well, in addition, you can schedule an appointment with a job counselor on this list. If you would like to do that, sign here, OK?
A: Yes, I think that would be great.
B: Fine, well the job search tools are all here for you to use. Feel free to look around and use what works best for you. Have fun with it!
A: Could you help me figure out how to look for a job?
B: We have lots of options, what type of job do you need?
A: I want to work in an office.
B: Do you want to work part-time or full-time?
A: I want to work full-time.
B: We have binders with local job listings or you can make use of the computers. OK?
A: I am confused a bit but I am sure that I can figure it out.
B: If you make an appointment with a job counselor, they can also provide you with a lot of information. Do you want to see a counselor?
A: No, I don't think I need to do that.
B: Well, you know that this job center is here for your use, so help yourself. Good luck!
A: What is the best way to find a job here?
B: There are different ways of conducting a job search. Do you know what you want to do?
A: I don't know.
B: Can you work part-time or full-time?
A: It doesn't matter right now, either one would be OK.
B: The binders have current local jobs listings and the computer jobs lists are good too. Understand?
A: OK, I'll go check it out.
B: Schedule an appointment with a counselor and you can get more information. Would that work for you?
A: I am not sure.
B: Everything that you need for a successful job search is here. Happy job searching!
2
Preparing for a Job Interview
A: Could you help me try and figure out how to get ready for my job interview?
B: The most important thing to do is to make sure you know the company and what services or products it provides. Do you know all about them?
A: Yes, I pretty much understand the company.
B: Well, after you've done your research, you have to decide whether the company is casual or formal. Have you decided what they are yet?
A: Yes, I've been observing them.
B: When you are choosing what to wear, keep all of that in mind. Have you chosen what to wear?
A: I already have something to wear.
B: I would always be ready to go shopping with you! Should we talk about other basics?
A: I am ready to think of other things.
B: You need to make sure you arrive on time, smile, be pleasant and friendly, look the person in the eye and answer all questions to the best of your ability. You'll do great!
A: I am not sure what to do to get ready for my job interview.
B: Make sure that you understand the company. Do you understand what it is that they do?
A: No, I probably need to do some more research.
B: When you've finished your research it will help you figure out whether your company is rigid in philosophy or kind of more relaxed. Does that make sense?
A: I think that their attitude is rather casual.
B: So all of that information will help you to pick out what to wear. Do you have something to wear?
A: I have absolutely nothing so far.
B: I could go shopping with you sometime if you need it, but can we talk about other basics?
A: Yes, where should we go from here?
B: Focus on being relaxed and open, don't forget to smile and shake hands and be genuinely interested in what their company is about. I'm sure you'll do well.
A: What should I do to prepare for a job interview?
B: An understanding of the basic workings of a company and the services or goods it provides is essential. Do you have that?
A: Sort of, but I could know more, I guess.
B: With that understanding, you can figure out what your company is looking for in terms of basic attitude. Right?
A: I think that they are a very formal company.
B: What you wear is important. So keep in mind what is suitable for the company and type of work you will be doing. Need help?
A: I need a lot of help in this area.
B: In addition to clothes we need to think about other basics, OK?
A: Yes, what else should we think of?
B: Be prompt. Don't forget to be friendly and interested. Listen carefully and listen to what they are really asking you. You'll be a hit!
3
Greeting by Receptionist
A: I am here for my job interview.
B: Fine, have a seat. May I get you some water or coffee?
A: Sure, thank you.
B: I'll get that for you right now.
A: Thank you. What a nice office this is!
B: Yes, could you come in now? I am going to take you back to meet your interviewer, Mr. Gotcha.
A: I have an appointment for an interview today.
B: Great, have a seat. Would you like some tea or coffee?
A: I'd love some.
B: The coffee area is right over there. Please help yourself.
A: Thank you. What a beautiful view from this office!
B: Yes. Oh, here comes Mr. Gotcha now. I'll show you to his office.
A: Good morning. I have an interview scheduled this morning.
B: The interviewer will be with you in a moment. Would you care for some water?
A: Yes, that would be great.
B: Just help yourself to whatever you would like from the table in the waiting area.
A: Thank you. This is a very lovely office building!
B: Yes. Why don't you come straight through the door and we'll walk down to Mr. Gotha's office together.
4
Job Interview (1)
A: Good morning, I am here for my interview.
B: Hello, nice to meet you. I'm Mr. Gotcha. Have any trouble finding the place?
A: No problem.
B: So why don't you tell me why you are interested in changing positions?
A: Unfortunately, our company is shutting down due to the economy.
B: What would you consider your strengths?
A: I am probably best at researching for marketing purposes.
B: What is your biggest weakness?
A: I tend to get bored easily and so love to keep myself challenged.
B: We have a position where that could work out well.
A: Thank you for taking the time to interview me.
B: Hi there, I'm Bill Gotcha, the owner of Gotcha Enterprises. Did you find your way here OK?
A: Your assistant gave wonderful directions.
B: Why are you switching jobs at this point in your career?
A: Our company is moving overseas and I wish to stay in the United States.
B: What are you best at?
A: I am good at organizing systems that have been having problems.
B: What is your biggest challenge in terms of skills?
A: I don't like to sit around and so like to always find things to do to keep myself busy.
B: That is good to hear!
A: Good afternoon. Thank you for the opportunity to interview for this position.
B: Hello, have a seat. I'm Bill Gotcha. I am assuming you found your way here with no trouble?
A: Actually, I am very familiar with the area so there was absolutely no problem.
B: I am curious as to why you want to leave your current employer.
A: I am interested in switching fields.
B: Do you feel that you are exceptionally good at anything in particular?
A: I am good at pulling together teams of people to accomplish a task.
B: What are you not good at?
A: I am impatient with myself at times and am hard on myself.
B: We appreciate hearing that about you!
5
Job Interview (2)
A: Good morning. Thank you for the interview.
B: No problem. Now, do you prefer working with others or flying solo?
A: Actually, I enjoy both.
B: So, what is most important to you in a job? Do you need job security or professional growth and a chance to advance?
A: I need job security.
B: Would you be able to relocate?
A: I am open to relocating.
B: What are your annual salary requirements?
A: I need at least 75,000 per year.
B: I'll keep that in mind. Thank you for coming in today. We'll be in touch.
A: Thank you so much for interviewing me this evening.
B: Happy to meet with you. Now, do you prefer group projects?
A: I like to work alone on some things and then bring those things to the group.
B: Do you value a steady job more or one that offers a chance to move ahead?
A: I want to grow in my job and move ahead.
B: Could you work for us in another state, if need be?
A: I need to stay in the area because of family.
B: How much do you need to make per year?
A: 75,000 per year.
B: Yikes! Thanks for your interest in this job. We'll be getting back to you.
A: I really appreciate the opportunity to interview for this position.
B: I was wondering if you like team projects, or projects that you work on alone.
A: I like to work on group projects that value and need each individual's contributions.
B: Are you most interested in a good steady job with benefits or one that will allow you to quickly advance?
A: I have children so a steady job is important but I would like a chance to advance.
B: How would you feel about relocating to another state?
A: I could not relocate in the next year, but might be open to it in the future.
B: Do you know how much this job offers per year?
A: A minimum of 75,000 per year.
B: OK, well, that's all I need to know for now. If something comes up, we'll be contacting you.
6
Asking Questions at an Interview
A: May I ask you how much this position pays per year?
B: This job pays sixty-five thousand dollars per year.
A: What kind of benefits does this job have?
B: This job provides full medical, dental, and disability.
A: What type of vacation time do we get?
B: You get 3 weeks paid vacation that you may use as you wish.
A: Do we have a 401K?
B: We offer a 401K with some matching funds available depending on length of service.
A: What type of professional development do you offer?
B: We provide up-to-date training on state of the art equipment.
A: Where do I sign up for my benefits package?
B: Down the hall. I'll show you when the interview is over.
A: What is the annual salary for this job?
B: The annual salary is sixty-five thousand dollars per year.
A: What does the benefits package include?
B: This job pays for half of your medical, dental, and disability.
A: Do we get paid time off?
B: You have a total of 21 days paid time off which can be used for vacation, personal, or sick leave.
A: How about retirement?
B: We still offer a traditional retirement plan that pays out if you stay with the company for 5 years or more.
A: Can I get company provided specialized training?
B: We offer full tuition reimbursement for job related classes.
A: Where is the benefits office?
B: It's on the second floor in Suite 201.
A: What will I earn per year in this job?
B: You can expect to earn sixty-five thousand dollars per year.
A: Are we covered by a good benefits plan?
B: The job has a menu plan where you are given a fixed amount of money and you choose what you most need in terms of benefits.
A: Can we take personal days off?
B: You get 2 weeks paid vacation and an additional 10 days of sick leave.
A: What do you offer in terms of a retirement plan?
B: We do not currently offer any retirement plan.
A: Do you reimburse for education that relates to my job?
B: We allow several weeks release time each year for our employees to attend job-related seminars and conferences.
A: Do you have a benefits brochure?
B: Whoa! Who said you got the job?
7
Accepting a Job Offer
A: Is this Mr. Wallace?
B: Yes, this is Mr. Wallace.
A: Mr. Wallace, this is the Xenon Company.
B: Oh, hello, how are you doing?
A: Mr. Wallace, we were very pleased with your interview and would like to offer you the position.
B: Wonderful! I am very happy to be able to join your organization.
A: We are interested in having you begin as soon as possible, perhaps in two weeks?
B: Yes, that would be perfect!
A: We will see you then.
A: Good morning, may I speak with Mr. Wallace, please?
B: You are speaking to him, may I help you?
A: Mr. Wallace, this is the Xenon Company calling to speak with you.
B: Yes, good to hear from you!
A: We are calling you today to offer you the job you interviewed for last week.
B: That's great! I am looking forward to working for you.
A: Would you be able to begin working for us in two weeks?
B: I could begin working then with no problem.
A: Welcome to our company; we will see you then.
A: This is Jason Brack calling, is Mr. Wallace in?
B: Yes, how may I help you?
A: I am calling you from the Xenon Company.
B: Yes, I was hoping to hear from you!
A: You had great interview and we are pleased to be able to offer you a position.
B: Excellent. I will consider it an honor to join your organization.
A: Would two weeks from now be a good start date for you?
B: That would be great. I could give notice to my current job and start with you on that date.
A: Glad that will work for both of us; I look forward to seeing you then.
8
Talking on the Phone
A: This is Ray. May I speak with Lee?
B: Yes, this is Lee speaking.
A: Lee. How are you today?
B: Oh, things are going great. What's up?
A: I was wondering if you could meet me tomorrow for lunch?
B: Sure! Where did you have in mind?
A: I was thinking of Joe's in the village.
B: I love that place. Sure, let's go there.
A: Fine then, I'll meet you around twelve.
B: I'll see you there. Look forward to it.
A: Good morning, this is Ray speaking. Is Lee in?
B: Hi, Ray. This is Lee.
A: Good morning, Lee. How is it going with you today?
B: Things are wonderful. What can I help you with?
A: Could we meet for lunch tomorrow to discuss the new project?
B: That would be great. What restaurant did you have in mind?
A: We could go to Lozano's downtown.
B: That would be perfect. It's a nice quiet place to meet.
A: I'll see you there around twelve then.
B: I am looking forward to meeting with you. See you then.
A: May I speak with Lee? This is Ray.
B: Lee here.
A: Lee, I thought that was you. How's it going?
B: I am doing well. How can I help you?
A: I would like to treat you to lunch tomorrow so I can get some suggestions from you.
B: Sounds like a plan. Where would you like to meet?
A: How about the new Chinese place next door?
B: Yes, that would work well for me.
A: I'll join you around twelve for lunch then.
B: It's a go then. See you there.
9
Making a Request for Office Supplies
A: Excuse me. I was wondering how to order office supplies.
B: We have a requisition form on the company web site. What type of supplies do you need?
A: I need paper, ink cartridges, and paper clips.
B: How quickly will you need your supplies?
A: I need all of my supplies right away.
B: We also will have to check your department budget. Do you know how much money you have for office supplies?
A: I will check to see what my budget is.
B: Would you like these supplies delivered or would you like to pick them up?
A: Please deliver them to my office.
B: Fine, well just send the form to us and we will let you know as soon as your supplies come in. Have a good day!
A: Thank you!
A: I need help in ordering my office supplies.
B: You can print out a copy of the Order Supply Form from our company web site and turn it into me. What will you be needing?
A: I need ink cartridges, staples, and Post-its.
B: Will you need all of them right away or can some wait?
A: Some of these can wait but there are a few things that I need right away.
B: You can only buy supplies that you have a budget for. Do you know what your budget is?
A: We have plenty of money for office supplies.
B: You can pick these supplies up or they can be delivered to your building. Which would you prefer?
A: I want to pick them up.
B: Well, just finish the request and we will contact you when the supplies come in. Have a good day!
A: You too!
A: How do I order the office supplies that I need?
B: Fill out this form with whatever you need. What do you need the most?
A: I need many things.
B: I can get a few of them right away, but might have to order some.
A: I can wait a few days for these items.
B: Make sure that you have money allocated for these supplies. How much do you have for office supplies?
A: I don't think we have very much money for supplies, but we have a little.
B: Would you like them delivered to you or can you come get them here?
A: I am not sure yet.
B: When you finish completing the request form, we will order and let you know when the supplies are here. Have a great day!
A: Good-bye!
10
Offering Help
A: I was wondering if you need any help on your new project.
B: Sure! That would be great! Are you good at writing or would you rather do the computer work?
A: I would like to help with the computer work.
B: Great! We are going to be working in teams of three. Are you OK working with others?
A: Yes, I like working like that.
B: We will begin next Monday. Would you be available then?
A: Yes, I can be there.
B: Well, if you could send me your basic background information before next Monday, it would be useful.
A: I will send the information to you.
B: Well then, thanks for your help. Have a great day!
A: Would you like me to help you on your new project?
B: I would love the help! Would you prefer helping with the writing part or is programming more your thing?
A: I would enjoy helping with the writing portion.
B: Perfect! You'll be working alone on that portion. Do you like to work alone?
A: That is OK sometimes.
B: Our first meeting is next Monday. Could you meet with us at that time?
A: No, I can't be there.
B: Please send me your background information before the meeting so I can look at it.
A: I can send that information to you.
B: OK. I look forward to working with you. Enjoy your week!
A: Could I help you on your new project?
B: I have a need for help with writing and also a need for help with the computer work. Which would you prefer?
A: I want to help with both.
B: That would be wonderful. Sometimes we will be working together and sometimes independently. Would that be OK?
A: Most of the time that is what I prefer.
B: We start on Monday. Can you be there?
A: I am not sure yet.
B: I need your background information before the meeting.
A: I will do that.
B: I'll enjoy working with you. Have a great day!
11
Asking for Help
A: Can you help me plan the office party?
B: Sure. What do you need the most help with, the food or entertainment?
A: I need help with food.
B: OK, well, let's coordinate our efforts. Should this party be formal or casual?
A: I think it should be casual.
B: I agree. Next, we have to decide on food. We have a choice of Chinese or Continental Cuisine. Which one should we have?
A: I would prefer Chinese food for this party.
B: Perfect choice. For music, should we have a live band or a DJ?
A: I think we should hire a live band.
B: OK then. Well, I will work on my part and get back to you with my progress on Friday.
A: I need help with the office party.
B: Yes, of course. We could split it. What part would you like to do, the food or the entertainment?
A: I have no idea what the entertainment should be.
B: Let's make sure we are on the same page. Do we want a formal or informal gathering?
A: Let's make it a formal affair.
B: Yes, that would be best. Now, for food should we have Chinese or American food?
A: American food would be the best choice.
B: That would be great. What kind of music would you like, a band or recorded music?
A: We should bring in a really good DJ.
B: That works for me. Let's see what we can each do about planning our part and meet again on Friday.
A: Would you help me figure out what to do about the office party?
B: I would be happy to help. What would you like me to help with, food or entertainment?
A: I would like to help you with both.
B: That will work out fine. To make sure everything goes together, do you think this party should be casual or dressy?
A: A dressy party would be fun!
B: That will work out fine. Do you think that Chinese or Continental food would be best?
A: We should probably have both.
B: Yes, that will work out fine. Should we hire a band or bring in a DJ?
A: Maybe we could do both!
B: Everything sounds great then! I'll meet you back here on Friday to discuss the details.
12
Responding to a Plea for Help
A: Is there anything I can help?
B: Yes, thank you. I am really far behind on this project. Could you help me with the extra typing or xeroxing?
A: I can do either one.
B: Good. That would be very helpful. Can you start with those pages over there?
A: No problem.
B: Thank you very much! How long have you been working here?
A: I have been working here for 5 years.
B: Well, we have some special projects coming up. Would you be interested in working on any of those?
A: Yes, I would love to work on a special project!
B: Well then, I'll keep you in the loop. Thank you for your help today.
A: Do you need any help?
B: I need some help catching up. Are you good at typing or could you help me xerox?
A: I like xeroxing.
B: Thank you! There are papers on the table to start with.
A: That would be OK.
B: I really appreciate the help. How many years have you been with the company?
A: I just started working here.
B: I have a special assignment coming up. Would you be interested in helping me on it?
A: I'd like to, but I am very busy.
B: I'll make sure that management keeps you in mind for special projects in the future. Thanks for the help!
A: What can I do to help you?
B: I have some extra help with my project. What would you prefer to help me with, typing or xeroxing?
A: I could do some typing for you.
B: That is very kind of you to offer to do that. Can you start with the pages on the table?
A: That would be a good place to start.
B: I like your positive attitude. How many years have you been employed here?
A: I have worked here long time.
B: We have a really interesting project coming up. Would you want to join us on it?
A: I'm not sure. Let me think about it.
B: OK. I will mention how great you were about helping me today. I appreciate your help.
13
How to Do a Timesheet
A: Can you help me with my timesheet?
B: Sure! I can help you. Do you know where the timesheets are kept?
A: No, I don't know where to find one.
B: Well, once you get one off the shelf over there, you first put your name on it. OK?
A: Yes, I can do that.
B: Now you have to fill in the hours in the blanks and total the hours for the week. Do you know how to use military time?
A: No, I don't know what that is.
B: OK, so we just start counting hours at midnight and record it. Show all minutes as a dot and then write how many minutes. OK?
A: Yes, I understand how to do this.
B: After you total your hours, make sure you sign it and turn it in to your supervisor.
A: That was easy!
B: Good luck and let me know if you need any help later on.
A: How do we do timesheets here?
B: They are actually fairly straightforward. Do you know where the blanks are kept?
A: Yes, I already have one.
B: OK, well after you take one out of that second drawer, you put your name on the top. Do you see?
A: I am kind of confused.
B: Next you fill in all of your hours for each day and total them. Do you know how to show time on a 24-hour clock?
A: I'm not quite sure.
B: Midnight is zero and when you put the minutes in, make sure that you show them with a dot followed by the minutes. Do you understand?
A: No, I have no idea what you are talking about.
B: It's easy, just write in the hours, total it, sign it, and put it in the box.
A: Thanks for your help.
B: Try it and if you can't do it, one of us can always help you later.
A: I need help with my timesheet.
B: OK, no problem. Have you found the blank ones?
A: Yes, I have seen them.
B: Yes, well put your name on it after you have downloaded it off the company website. OK?
A: Yes, I understand what to do.
B: You fill in the hours and total them for the week. Have you ever used a 24 hour clock?
A: What? Huh?
B: So after you noted the hours, starting at zero which is midnight, you just write down the minutes as a dot followed by minutes. Get it?
A: Huh? What?
B: Just make sure you show your total, sign it, and turn it in.
A: I thought you said this was easy.
B: You are a quick learner. I don't think you'll have any trouble with this.
14
Making a Phone Call
A: I need help figuring out how to use this phone.
B: Sure. First you pick up the receiver and hit one of the first 3 buttons. Do you hear a tone?
A: Yes, I hear the tone.
B: OK. Now you dial 9 on the keypad. Do you hear the tone change?
A: Yes, it changed.
B: Well, when you hear it change, that means you have an outside line. Where are you trying to call?
A: I am trying to call home.
B: OK. Well, to dial to the outside you just now dial the number. For a call inside the company just hit the extension number. Do you know the extensions?
A: Yes, I have a list of extensions.
B: Well, if you ever need help with an extension, you can dial O.
A: Can you show me how to use this phone?
B: Yes, I can help you with that. Pick up the receiver and hit one of the buttons. Do you hear a tone?
A: No, I don't hear anything.
B: Next you dial 9 on the keypad. You should hear the tone change. Did you hear it change?
A: I'm not sure.
B: OK. Well, after you get the line to change you have an outside line. Who are you trying to call?
A: I am trying to call a client.
B: To call a number on the outside you now just dial the number. For inside calls, punch in the extension number. Has someone given you an extension list?
A: No, I don't know anyone's extension.
B: All of the extensions are listed on the wall chart over there if you ever need help.
A: I want to make a phone call. Can you show me how?
B: Of course, pick up the receiver, hit a button and listen for a tone. Are you hearing it?
A: Yes, now what do I do?
B: Well, after you dial 9 on the keypad, you should hear the tone change.
A: No, nothing changed.
B: When you dial 9 and hear the tone change it means you have an outside line. Who are you trying to call?
A: I am trying to call my boss.
B: For an outside call you now just dial the number. For a company number you need to know the extension. Do you have a list of extensions?
A: I know a few extensions but I don't know all of them.
B: You can always look an extension up on the company website.
15
Making an Appointment for a Meeting
A: I would like to make an appointment for a project meeting.
B: Of course, I have Monday or Tuesday available. What day would be best for you?
A: I would like to meet on Monday.
B: Very well then. Are mornings or afternoons best?
A: I want to come in the morning.
B: I will have my assistant check my calendar and get back to you with the exact time. Can you bring me an outline of the project when you come?
A: Yes, I can bring the outline when I come to the meeting.
B: Do you think that we should include the entire committee in the meeting or just our sub-committee?
A: I think that we should have just the sub-committee.
B: OK then, I will make the arrangements for them to attend. Do you know how to get there?
A: No, I need directions, please.
B: Fine, we will make sure that we send you all of the information that you need. See you there!
A: Could I meet with you to discuss the project?
B: Good idea. We could meet on Monday or Tuesday. Which day would you prefer?
A: Tuesday would be good for me.
B: OK. Do you think we should meet in the morning or in the afternoon?
A: I think the afternoon would be best.
B: That will work out. I will e-mail the exact time tomorrow. I need you to bring your plans with you.
A: Yes, I will bring my plans with me to the meeting.
B: Should we invite the whole committee or should we just have the sub-committee there?
A: I feel that the whole committee needs to be there.
B: Yes, I agree. We'll make sure that they get notified. Can you find the meeting place?
A: Yes, I know how to get there on my own.
B: Great! We will send you all the details later. Looking forward to meeting with you!
A: When could we meet to discuss the project?
B: I will be available on Monday or Tuesday. Choose which day is best for you.
A: I prefer Monday.
B: Good. Can you come in the morning or would afternoon be best?
A: Either one is OK.
B: Great! When I check with the others, I will send you an exact time. When you come, be prepared to do your presentation.
A: I will be prepared to do my presentation.
B: Who would you like to see there? Just the sub-committee or should we ask the whole committee?
A: Everyone needs to be there.
B: That will probably be best. Do you need help with directions?
A: I think I know where it is. Maybe you could send me directions just to make sure.
B: OK. We will e-mail you all the information you need tomorrow. Have a good day!
16
Rearranging an Appointment
A: I had an appointment tomorrow and I need to change it to a different date.
B: Certainly, what day would be best for you?
A: I think that Monday or Tuesday would be good for me.
B: I can give you Monday; I have ten or eleven in the morning.
A: I think ten o'clock is best.
B: Fine, I'll put you down for that.
A: That would be great!
B: Happy I could help you; see you then!
A: I was wondering if I could reschedule my appointment to a later date?
B: OK, just tell me what day would be best for your appointment.
A: Wednesday or Thursday would be perfect.
B: Thursday is available; would ten or eleven be best?
A: I would love to have an eleven o'clock appointment.
B: Great, I'll just add you in, if that works.
A: Perfect, I appreciate that.
B: So happy that we had an opening for you.
A: I can't make my appointment and need to make another one.
B: That's OK, we can reschedule it if you tell me what day works for you.
A: Friday, Saturday, or Sunday would be good for me.
B: I can give you Friday; would you prefer ten or eleven?
A: Ten o'clock is perfect.
B: Well, in that case, I'll just write you in.
A: Thanks. That will work out well.
B: It was my pleasure to have been able to make it work.
17
Giving an Excuse for Being Late to Work
A: Excuse me for being late to work.
B: Where have you been?
A: My car broke down.
B: That's too bad. Please try to fix it so that it doesn't happen again.
A: Yes, I'll work on it.
B: Thank you, have a seat. We are working on the new project
A: Great! Fill me in.
B: Let's take a look at the Campbell Project.
A: I don't understand the projected revenues.
B: Let's take another look at it for those of you who don't understand.
A: I am sorry I am so late to work.
B: What was the problem?
A: I lost track of time.
B: Things happen; make sure it doesn't become a habit.
A: It won't happen again.
B: All right, please take this message and call this client.
A: No problem.
B: Now does everyone understand the diagram on the board?
A: Yes, I understand the numbers.
B: I will explain it again; especially for those of you who arrived late.
A: I lost track of time, am I late?
B: Yes. What kept you from arriving on time?
A: My friend needed me to help him.
B: I realize that everyone has emergencies; just get here on time from now on.
A: My apologies.
B: I appreciate you saying that and would like you to join us in our meeting.
A: Sure, I'll sit right here.
B: Wonderful, does anyone have any questions about this project?
A: I am confused about the projected revenues.
B: I'm glad that some of you get it, but let's go over it once more.