Handout 5: What would you say?

Decide what to say in these situations. You can use the expressions below for help.

1 Meeting people
1 You see someone you met a year ago.
2 You arrive early for a meeting. You are the second person there.
3 You are having lunch with visitors at your company. Break the ice.
4 You meet a colleague at the coffee machine.
5 The pilot on your plane announces a delay. Speak to the passenger next to you.
6 You have to introduce yourself on a training course, and say three interesting things about yourself.
7 A new person joins your company. You meet him or her for the first time.
8 Someone says hello to you. You can’t remember who they are or where you first met.

2 Travelling
1 Your hotel room is cold and noisy. Speak to reception.
2 You arrive in a hotel at 11.00 p.m. The restaurant is closed. You are hungry.
3 You are visiting a customer. You do not feel well. He is smoking.
4 You meet a supplier. You are sure you know her from somewhere.
5 In an interview, the candidate fidgets and won’t look at you.
6 A customer wants to renew a contract, but with a 10% discount.
7 The traffic is bad. You are late for a meeting. Phone to explain.
8 You are tired after a long day, and want to miss dinner and return to your hotel.

3 Small talk
Reply and keep the conversation going.
1 Do you speak much English in your job?
2 Been on holiday yet this year?
3 Do you do any sport?
4 Do you get out much?
5 Have we met?
6 Drink?
7 Lovely weather, isn’t it?
8 I’m reading a good book at the moment.
9 We went to the cinema last night. First time in ages.
10 Nice meeting you.

Useful expressions

Excuse me? I’m afraid … Could you …? Can I …?

Would you mind …? Sorry. I was wondering if … Have you got …?
You’re welcome. Of course. Certainly. Here you are.
Do you mind if I …? Is there …? Is it OK if I …? Thanks very much.
Would you like …? Can you …? How about …? Good idea.
No problem. Any time. Really? That’s fine.
How are you? Have you …? How are things? How have you been?

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