This is the second in our two-part intermediate Business English Podcast series on opening and managing meetings in english. In the first episode, we looked at how to open a meeting. In today’s podcast lesson we’re going to cover how to manage the discussion.
Martin, the GM of Daneline Singapore, is discussing with his staff how to make up a budget shortfall. He has just asked Sandra to kick off the first item on the agenda – outsourcing the cleaning.
Listening Quiz
1) How much money can Daneline Singapore save by outsourcing cleaning?
2) Does Sam like pizza?
3) Does Dave agree with the strategy of outsourcing cleaning?
4) How does Dave suggest dealing with the brochure redesign?
*** This lesson is part of our Business English eBook for meetings: Meeting Essentials. Premium members click here to download the complete eBook.
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Please can you help me to understand the idiom: to cut a lot of f….. (?) – to save a lot of money.
Thanks
“Cut the fat” means to get rid of waste. “We’re spending too much money on the Brussels office, we need to cut some fat.”
one more question: what does the phrase “I think it’s a little hush” mean?
I think you mean “a little harsh“. Harsh means strong or aggressive. So Dave is suggesting that laying off the cleaning staff (due to outsourcing the work) is too strong (or harsh) of an action to take.
what amazing web page!!! I’m really impressed with the quality of each podcast, I’ve felt working in different places and assuming a lot of roles as in real life!!!!