Page 34 - Business-9

Unit16

Late for the meeting

Forest: Hey, you were late for the board meeting today; you were supposed to be here at 3 pm.
Lee: I am very sorry for being late, but traffic was heavy today. In fact, I almost forgot my business
appointment due to this overwhelming rush of orders. You know me anyway, I’m never late for
meetings. This afternoon is really an exception. I think I have to adjust to the bulk orders that
are coming in.
Forest: Have you had a lot of orders lately? That’s good news for the company. We should be thank-
ful for that and adjust to the demands our clients.
Lee: Yes, we are inundated with orders. In fact, I almost forgot about my appointment at the job
site. We’re still coping with the additional work. Of course, we’re thankful but we now we have
to adjust. Did I miss anything at the meeting because of my tardiness?

Forest: Well, I understand your situation. These things happen at the job site. We began the meet-
ing on time and we talked about making a decision regarding the drafting of a provisional
contract with your company. That was what we were talking about before you arrived. You can
check the minutes of the meeting with our secretary. His reports are detailed enough. You’ll be
able to follow with the discussion when we have another meeting about it.
Lee: Anyway, thank you very much for your understanding. I promise not to be late again.

1. What are the common causes of tardiness in your office?

Sample answer:
People at the office are usually late due to unexpected road accidents or road repairs that
cause traffic. Unexpected bad weather that leads to heavy traffic is also another reason.

2. How is tardiness discouraged or sanctioned at your workplace?

Sample answer:
Our office only allows four cases of tardiness before the issuance of a verbal warning. Another
case of tardiness merits a written warning. If this does not prevent more cases of tardiness,
then a suspension corresponding to the acquired number of tardiness will be enforced.

3. Are people at your workplace understanding or forgiving of tardiness?

Sample answer:

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