Page 59 - EAA 2nd ed-WithCoverVerso

C. Reading

Reading extended formal dialogue between colleagues.

Read the dialogue below. Pay attention to the bold expression, then answer the question

Marcus : Now you all know why I've called this meeting. Sales figures for our region are down,

and we need to address this as soon as we can. I'd like to start by asking Maya to talk

us through the figures and then we can take a look at the products we're offering and
compare them with the competition. So, Maya, your report, please.

Maya : Thanks, Marcus. Well, I've prepared some handouts to show you how the figures are
looking. If we look at the sales year, the sales downward has happened since the

beginning of the year. So, in order to meet the budget this year we will, in my opinion,
have to start some cost-saving measures

Anna : What exactly do you mean by that? Cost-saving measures? Redundancies?
Maya : That's one possibility

Anna : I am sorry to have a different opinion. We need a strong workforce. I don’t think it
will be possible to be done.

Marcus : Okay thanks, Maya and Anna. I understand that cost-cutting is something that we
need to think about, however, we also need to stop the downturn in sales and regain

market share. So can I bring you in here David, any comments?
David: : Well, it's hard to know what the problem is. Our products are competitive.

Marcus : So they're not getting better offers from the competition
David : Well, I am not sure about that. Let’s have a discussion later on in your office. By the

way, at the moment I've prepared some handouts yes go ahead it'll be good to look
at the details

Marcus : Ok. Thanks, David. That was all useful information. Anna, can we turn to you now?

Do you have any ideas why this downturn is happening?
Anna : Well, it's true we are seeing a decrease in customs in our region. There's also been
an increase in customers cancelling new contracts within 14 days.

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English for Executive Administrative Assistant