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Episode 4 – Transcript

In this episode we look at how to chair a meeting.

DENISE: Has everybody got a copy of the agenda?

Would you mind taking minutes John?

JOHN: Not at all.

DENISE: Good. Well, then let’s get started.

First of all, thankyou everyone for attending at short notice.
As you know, the objective of this meeting of the Capital Works Committee is to discuss a proposal for some urgent building work at our Southside plant. As we’ve got to reach a decision which may involve spending, we’ll run it as a formal meeting.
Now, you’ve read the proposal, so without further ado, I’d like to open it up for discussion.
Perhaps if we can start with you Tan – what’s your view?

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?

All those 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…

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In this episode we look at the things you can say to someone you’ve just met.

WAITER: Another drink sir?

WALTER: No thankyou.

SUE: Excuse me – is anyone sitting here?

WALTER: No – please have a seat.

SUE: That’s better – my feet are killing me!

WALTER: Have you been here long?

SUE: No, but I just flew in this morning, and I haven’t had a chance to sit down since then.

WALTER: Oh, where have you come from?

SUE: From Manila.

WALTER: Is this your first visit to Australia?

SUE: No, I have been once before, but it was a long time ago.

WALTER: And have you been to Sydney before?

SUE: No, it’s an amazing city.

WALTER: Yes, it has its points. But you’re lucky to live in Manila. It’s a fascinating city.

SUE: What about yourself? Do you live in Sydney?

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.

So, how’s your hotel?

SUE: It’s good. Very convenient – just near the harbour.

WALTER: Have you seen the Opera House yet?

SUE: Yes, we flew right over it!

WALTER: Excuse me – there’s someone I must talk to. (stands) It’s been very nice to meet you. I’m Walter by the way.

SUE: You too. I’m Sue. Perhaps we’ll meet later.

WALTER: I hope so.

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VICTOR: Well, it’s been good to meet you Sam, and very interesting to hear about your business.

SAM: Look, we are having a small dinner for some of our clients and friends after this. Why don’t you join us?

VICTOR: That’s very kind of you. I’ll just check with my associate whether they have other arrangements for us.

SAM: Your associate is most welcome to join us too.

VICTOR: Thankyou – excuse me.

WALTER: This is Sam Eriks from Eriks imports. He has very kindly invited us to a dinner.

SAM: Yes, would you like to join us?

WALTER: Unfortunately I have another engagement, but thankyou for the invitation.

SAM: Well, perhaps you could join us after that for a drink?

WALTER: Sounds great. I’d be happy to. Where shall we meet?

SAM: How about the lounge bar here. At about ten?

WALTER: I’ll see you then. Excuse me…

SAM: Lin. Victor’s joining us for dinner.

LIN: Oh wonderful.

VICTOR: I hope you don’t mind.

LIN: Of course not, you’re most welcome.

SAM: Well, shall we make a move?

LIN: Would you mind if I just say goodbye to a few people?

SAM: No problem – we’ll see you outside in a few minutes.

LIN: Okay.