Executive calls! Reading

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ACTIVITY

READING

Read the following lecture carefully and answer the questions as appropriate.

READING

Alex Smith had been waiting all week to get in touch with Mr. Davies. The two of them were working together on an important project that was nearing its deadline, and Alex needed Mr. Davies’ approval on some final details. After spending hours drafting the updates and revisions, Alex decided it was time to make the call.It was a bright Wednesday morning when Alex sat at the desk, phone in hand. Alex glanced at the clock—it was 9:30 AM, just the right time to catch Mr. Davies before he got too busy with meetings. Taking a deep breath, Alex dialed the number of Brown Solutions, the company Mr. Davies worked for.After a few rings, a cheerful voice answered. "Good morning! This is Brown Solutions. How can I assist you today?"Alex smiled. "Good morning!" Alex replied politely, “I’d like to speak with Mr. Davies, please.”

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READING

There was a brief pause on the other end. "I’m sorry," the receptionist said apologetically, "Mr. Davies is not in at the moment. He’s away on a business trip and won’t be available for the rest of the day."Alex frowned slightly. This was unfortunate news, as the project deadline was fast approaching, and there wasn’t much time to waste. However, Alex didn’t let the frustration show. "That’s alright," Alex said. "Could you please leave him a message? I’d appreciate it if he could call me back as soon as possible."The receptionist responded promptly. "Of course! May I have your name and number?""Yes," Alex said, taking care to speak clearly. "My name is Alex Smith, and my number is 555-123-456."The receptionist repeated the information back: "Alex Smith, 555-123-456. Is that correct?"

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READING

"Yes, that’s correct," Alex confirmed, grateful for the attention to detail."I’ll make sure Mr. Davies gets the message as soon as he returns," the receptionist assured. "Is there anything else I can help you with?"Alex shook his head, though the receptionist couldn’t see it. "No, that’s all. Thank you very much for your help.""You’re welcome! Have a great day," the receptionist replied brightly."You too," Alex said, and with that, the call ended.Alex set the phone down, leaning back in the chair. It wasn’t the outcome expected, but at least the message had been delivered. Now, all Alex could do was wait for Mr. Davies to return the call. Hopefully, it wouldn’t be too long, and they could finalize everything before the project deadline loomed even closer. With a sigh, Alex turned back to the computer, preparing for the work ahead while waiting for the phone to ring.

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To check in on Mr. Davies’ vacation plans

Why did Alex call Mr. Davies?

Question 01

To reschedule a meeting with another client

To confirm a project update

Correctanswer

Alex called to confirm a project update and discuss the final details with Mr. Davies.

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How does the receptionist explain Mr. Davies’ absence?

Question 02

She mentions that he is on vacation.

She informs Alex that Mr. Davies is on a business trip.

She says Mr. Davies has resigned.

Correctanswer

The receptionist tells Alex that Mr. Davies is away on a business trip and won’t be available for the rest of the day.

Next

What action does Alex take when Mr. Davies isn’t available?

Question 03

Alex asks the receptionist to schedule a meeting.

Alex tries to reach another colleague.

Alex leaves a message and asks for a callback.

Correctanswer

Alex leaves a message with the receptionist, providing a name and phone number for Mr. Davies to return the call.

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She repeats Alex's phone number back to confirm.

She offers to contact Mr. Davies directly.

How does the receptionist ensure the message is accurate?

Question 04

She asks Alex to send an email instead.

Correctanswer

The receptionist repeats Alex's name and number to confirm the message details.

Next

Disappointed, but accepting of the situation

Relieved and happy the project is finished

How does Alex feel at the end of the call?

Question 05

Frustrated and ready to call again

Start over?

Congratulations!

Wronganswer

Try again!

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