Page 63 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Small Talk

There are many occasions that are celebrated in the United
States. Don’t feel pressured to accept every social invitation you
may receive. However, it is important to accept as many business-
related invitations as possible.
Americans often mix socializing with business. As a culture,
we spend so much time working with colleagues, who then
become friends, that it is a natural extension to socialize with
work acquaintances. Additionally, Americans take less vacation
time than people in most other countries. This increases their
time at work and time spent with colleagues.
It is important when you promise to get back to a host after
checking your availability, that you do get back with an answer
in time for the host to plan. Americans are often busy with fam-
ily obligations such as their children’s sporting events and games.
Your colleagues may also be visiting relatives or friends who live
in another state. They may be entertaining these relatives or
friends when they are here. Your American colleagues may want
to approach you with an invitation but be booked way in advance
for these family and friends events. It is not polite to invite your-
self to someone’s home, but you can make yourself invitable.

Idioms and Other Vocabulary

Able to make it: able to attend
Awkward: makes someone feel uncomfortable
Booked: time is taken up with appointments
Buy time: to delay making a decision
Caught up: involved in
Cover: pay for
Dress code: rules about what to wear in a situation or to
an event

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