Free Weekly Business English Lesson #49

Biz 英語術・Free Biz Lessons

Business English Dialogue and Phrases for Shadowing

Introduction
1. Before we get started with the lesson dialogue, just a quick reminder that while these lessons are great for listening practice and expression building, the most effective way to learn through these lessons is by shadowing. Remember that shadowing is not just listening and repeating. Instead you must try to speak at nearly the same time as the audio while focusing on pronunciation, intonation, and speaking speed. Let's do a quick demo for review. Linda, I'm going to tell you little bit about my hometown, and I'd like you to shadow it. Remember, listening only, no reading!
(Shadowing session)
2. If you want to learn more about shadowing click here.

Lesson transcript

A Year-end Party

Ms. Jones: Mr. Okamoto, do you have a moment?
Mr. Okamoto: Sure. What's on your mind?
Ms. Jones: The year-end party is approaching and we still have a few details to work out.
Mr. Okamoto: You're right. It's already December! Geez, time really does fly doesn't it!
Ms. Jones: It sure does! So, the venue has already been decided, and most of the employees have turned in their RSVPs.
Mr. Okamoto: Well, what else needs to be done?
Ms. Jones: First of all, we need to decide who will give the opening speech and the kampai, or cheers. I'm guessing that the CEO will give his speech in the middle of the party, so...
Mr. Okamoto: Hmm...Jim in the sales department is excellent at giving toasts. He always manages to make everyone laugh.
Ms. Jones: Okay. I'll talk with him about it and see if he is willing to do it. Also, Ms. Otsuka will be retiring this year, so this might be a good opportunity to recognize all of the work she's done for us.
Mr. Okamoto: That's a great idea. Although she'll undoubtedly be having a farewell party with her department, it would be excellent for company morale to say a few words and give her something in front of everyone. Do you have any ideas for a gift?
Ms. Jones: Well, she's already getting a fine retirement package from the company, so I don't think the gift needs to be too big. How about a bouquet of flowers?
Mr. Okamoto: That sounds good. Let's throw in a dinner for two at The Regal Hotel as well. After all of her years of service it's the least we can do.
Ms. Jones: Alright. Finally, since the venue is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the station, I think it's best to charter some buses to get everyone to and from the event.
Mr. Okamoto: That's a good idea. I know some people will drink a lot, so we don't want to be responsible if anyone gets lost or injured coming and going. Can you arrange that?
Ms. Jones: No problem.
Mr. Okamoto: I'm planning on saying a few words at the end of the party, so I'll remind everyone then that the buses will be available.
Ms. Jones: Great. I think that's everything then.
Mr. Okamoto: Okay. Please let me know if you need anything else.

Key Vocabulary and phrases

1. Geez! = Wow!
2. RSVP = Répondez s'il vous plaît; Please respond (by letter or email)
3. Give a toast = Give a short cheers speech
4. Undoubtedly = Surely
5. Morale = Motivation
6. Throw in = Provide extra; Give additionally
7. Years of service = Years of work for the company
8. Charter = Hire (a bus, boat, plane, etc.)
9. Be responsible (for) = Be liable for; be in charge

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