Business English: Networking & Conversation Skills

In this lesson, we’ll learn how to introduce yourself professionally in English – a skill you’ll need in every business and networking situation.

1. Why introductions matter

First impressions count.
A clear, confident introduction helps you:

• build trust,

• show professionalism,

• and start conversations on the right note.

2. The basic structure

A professional introduction usually has three key parts:

1. Your name

2. Your role or job title

3. Your company or organization

Formula: “My name is [Name]. I’m [Role] at [Company].”

3. Examples

Let’s look at some examples:

• “My name is Anna Müller. I’m a project manager at Siemens.”

• “I’m David, and I work as a marketing specialist at a tech start-up in Berlin.”

• “Hello, I’m Julia, and I’m responsible for international sales at Lufthansa.”

Notice how short and clear these introductions are.

4. Adding more detail (optional)

Sometimes, you may want to add one more piece of information – for example, what you specialize in, or what your company does.

Examples:

• “My name is Thomas. I’m an engineer at Bosch, and I focus on renewable energy projects.”

• “I’m Sarah, and I work in HR at Deloitte, supporting our recruitment team.”

Keep it short – one extra sentence is enough.

5. Introducing your company

If someone asks, “What does your company do?”, you can answer with a simple structure:

• “We specialize in…”

• “Our company focuses on…”

• “We provide [services/products] for [clients/industries].”

Example:

• “We provide financial consulting services for international clients.”

6. Practice Tip

Pause the video and practice introducing yourself now:

• Say your name,

• your role,

• and your company.
  If you like, add one extra sentence about what you or your company does.

The more often you repeat it, the more natural it will sound in real situations.

Key Takeaway

A professional introduction should be:

• short, clear, and confident.
  Start with your name, role, and company. Then add one more detail if it’s relevant.

Great work! In the next lesson, we’ll look at how to use small talk and icebreakers to build rapport after your introduction.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on something that makes networking much easier:
small talk and icebreakers.

1. Why small talk matters

In many cultures, especially in international business, small talk isn’t “wasting time” – it’s an important step to:

• build rapport,

• create trust,

• and make the other person feel comfortable.

A short, friendly chat often opens the door to more serious business conversations.

2. Good topics for small talk

Here are some safe, universal topics you can use:

• The event itself: “What did you think of the keynote?”

• Travel: “How was your trip here?”

• The city or location: “Is this your first time in London?”

• Work-related, but light: “What projects are you currently working on?”

• General positive topics: weather, food, sports (depending on context).

3. Topics to avoid

There are also some topics you should be careful with:

• Politics and religion

• Personal income or salary

• Very private matters (family, relationships)

• Controversial topics

Keep it neutral and positive, especially in first conversations.

4. Icebreaker phrases

Here are some useful phrases to start a conversation:

• “Hi, my name is [Name]. What brings you here today?”

• “This is a great event. Have you been here before?”

• “I really enjoyed the last talk. What did you think?”

• “So, what line of work are you in?”

• “How do you know the organizer?”

These are short, friendly, and open-ended – perfect to get people talking.

5. Keeping the conversation going

Once the other person responds, you can show interest and encourage them to speak more:

• “That sounds really interesting – tell me more.”

• “Oh, I see. How long have you been working in that field?”

• “That must be exciting. What’s the most challenging part of it?”

The key is to listen actively and ask follow-up questions.

6. Practice tip

Here’s an exercise:

• Pick one of the icebreaker phrases,

• say it out loud,

• and then imagine the other person’s answer.

Then respond with a follow-up question.

Practice this a few times, so it feels natural in real conversations.

7. Key takeaway

Small talk isn’t “small” – it’s the first step to building strong business relationships.
Keep your topics safe, positive, and professional.
Use simple icebreaker phrases, and show interest with follow-up questions.

In the next lesson, we’ll go deeper into how to ask questions and show genuine interest in conversations.

See you there!

In the last lesson, we talked about small talk and icebreakers.
Now, let’s look at the next step: how to ask good questions and show real interest in the other person.

1. Why questions are powerful

Questions are the easiest way to:

• keep a conversation going,

• show respect and curiosity,

• and let the other person do most of the talking.

Remember: People love to talk about themselves and their experiences.

2. Open vs. Closed Questions

There are two types of questions:

• Closed questions (Yes/No answers):
  “Do you work here in Berlin?”
  “Have you been to this event before?”

• Open questions (invite longer answers):
  “What do you enjoy most about your work?”
  “How did you get started in this field?”

For networking, open questions are usually better – they create real conversations.

3. Useful Question Starters

Here are some professional ways to start open questions:

• “What do you think about…?”

• “How do you usually…?”

• “What’s your experience with…?”

• “Why did you decide to…?”

4. Showing Interest Actively

Asking questions is one part – but you also need to show that you’re listening.

You can do this with:

• Verbal signals: “That’s interesting!”, “I see”, “Really?”, “Wow, that’s impressive.”

• Follow-up questions: “Oh, you mentioned international projects – which countries are you working with?”

• Repeating keywords: If someone says “I work in renewable energy”, you can answer “Renewable energy? That must be exciting!”

5. Practice Mini-Dialogues

Example:
A: “I work in marketing.”
B: “Marketing? Interesting! What type of campaigns do you focus on?”
? Short, natural, and it shows you’re paying attention.

6. Avoiding the Interview Feeling

Important: Networking is not a job interview.
Don’t just fire question after question.
Balance is key: Ask, listen, share something about yourself, then ask again.

Example:

• “How long have you been in this industry?”

• “That’s great. I’ve just started working in [your field] myself.”

Key Takeaway

Good networking is about asking open questions, listening carefully, and showing real interest.
This makes the other person feel valued and helps you build a stronger connection.

In the next lesson, we’ll talk about how to keep conversations flowing naturally without running out of things to say.

See you there!

In the last lessons, we looked at introductions and small talk. Now let’s go one step further:
How do you keep a conversation flowing naturally?

1. Use Follow-Up Questions

The easiest way to keep a conversation going is to ask follow-up questions.

For example:
A: “I work in renewable energy.”
B: “Renewable energy? Interesting! What kind of projects are you working on?”

A simple follow-up question shows interest and gives the other person more to talk about.

Useful phrases:

• “That’s interesting – could you tell me more?”

• “How did that start?”

• “What’s the biggest challenge in that?”

2. Show Active Listening

Don’t just ask questions – show that you’re really listening.

• Use short responses: “I see.”, “That makes sense.”, “Really?”, “Wow.”

• Repeat keywords:
  A: “I manage a team of engineers.”
  B: “A team of engineers? That must be exciting.”

These small signals make the other person feel heard and understood.

3. Agreeing Politely

Agreeing is a great way to build rapport.
Useful phrases:

• “Absolutely, I completely agree with you.”

• “That’s so true.”

• “I think you’re right about that.”

• “Yes, I’ve had the same experience.”

Agreement builds connection and trust.

4. Disagreeing Politely

Sometimes you don’t agree – and that’s fine! The key is to stay polite and professional.

Polite phrases for disagreeing:

• “I see your point, but I have a slightly different perspective.”

• “That’s interesting, though my experience has been a little different.”

• “I understand what you mean, but may I offer another view?”

• “That’s one way to look at it. Another way could be…”

Notice: You always start with something positive, then give your opinion.

5. Sharing Your Own Experiences

Conversations flow best when you mix asking questions with sharing a little about yourself.

Example:

• “How long have you worked in this field?”

• “Wow, 10 years! I’ve only been in this industry for 2 years, but I really enjoy it so far.”

Balance is the secret – listen, then share.

6. Avoiding Dead Ends

Try not to answer with just “Yes” or “No”.
Instead, expand your answers:

• Instead of “Yes.” say: “Yes, I’ve been there once – it was a great experience.”

• Instead of “No.” say: “No, I haven’t, but I’d love to in the future.”

Key Takeaway

To keep conversations flowing:

1. Ask follow-up questions.

2. Show active listening.

3. Agree to build rapport.

4. Disagree politely when needed.

5. Balance listening with sharing.

This way, your conversations will never feel forced – they’ll feel natural and engaging.

In the next lesson, we’ll look at useful phrases for exchanging contact details and following up after an event.

See you there!

In networking, it’s important not only to start conversations, but also to end them politely and professionally.

You don’t want to just walk away – you want to leave a positive impression.

1. Why it matters

Ending a conversation well helps you:

• show respect for the other person’s time,

• keep the door open for future contact,

• and move smoothly on to meet other people.

A good ending is just as important as a good introduction.

2. Simple Closing Phrases

Here are some neutral, professional ways to close a conversation:

• “It was great talking to you.”

• “I really enjoyed our conversation.”

• “Thank you for sharing your insights.”

• “I’ll let you continue networking – but it was a pleasure meeting you.”

3. Adding a Reason (optional)

Sometimes it helps to add a reason why you’re leaving.

Examples:

• “I don’t want to take up too much of your time.”

• “I need to catch up with a colleague before the next session.”

• “I should grab a coffee before the next talk starts.”

Giving a reason makes the ending feel natural.

4. Linking to Future Contact

A strong ending often includes a next step.

• “Let’s connect on LinkedIn.”

• “Could I have your business card?”

• “I’ll follow up with you by email next week.”

• “I’d love to stay in touch.”

This way, the conversation doesn’t just end – it continues later.

5. Polite Body Language

Don’t forget your body language:

• Smile,

• Shake hands (if appropriate),

• Make eye contact.

This makes the goodbye warm and professional.

6. Example Mini-Dialog

A: “It was really nice meeting you, John. I should head to the next session now.”
B: “Of course, it was great talking to you. Let’s connect on LinkedIn.”
A: “Perfect, I’ll send you a request later.”

Key Takeaway

To end conversations gracefully:

1. Thank the person.

2. Optionally, give a reason.

3. Suggest a next step if you want to stay in touch.

4. Use polite body language.

That way, you’ll leave a positive impression and make professional networking smoother.

In the next lesson, we’ll focus on exchanging contact details and following up effectively.

See you there!

In this lesson, we’ll focus on how to meet people at conferences and business events.
These situations can feel a little stressful, but with the right phrases and strategies, you’ll feel more confident and professional.

1. Starting a Conversation at Events

At a conference or event, most people expect to meet new contacts.
That means you don’t need a complicated opening line – just keep it simple and friendly.

Useful openers:

• “Hi, my name is [Name]. Is this your first time at this conference?”

• “Hello, I don’t think we’ve met yet. I’m [Name].”

• “What did you think of the last session?”

• “What brings you here today?”

These questions are natural and easy to answer, which helps start the conversation.

2. During Breaks or Coffee Sessions

Coffee breaks are the perfect time to approach people.
You can use casual comments to open a chat:

• “The coffee here is really good. Have you tried it yet?”

• “This place is quite busy – have you been here before?”

• “I always find these breaks great for meeting new people. What about you?”

Remember: Everyone is here to network, so don’t feel shy.

3. Joining a Group Conversation

It’s normal to join groups at events. Approach politely, listen first, and then introduce yourself.

Example:

• “Hi, may I join you?”

• “Hello, I’m [Name]. I couldn’t help overhearing you talking about [topic]. I work in that area too.”

The key is to listen for a moment, then add value to the conversation.

4. Talking About the Event

The event itself is always a safe topic.

Questions you can ask:

• “Which talk has been your favorite so far?”

• “What are you hoping to get out of this conference?”

• “Do you often attend events like this?”

5. Moving Towards Business Topics

Once the small talk is flowing, you can transition to business.

• “So, what line of work are you in?”

• “Which company are you with?”

• “What kind of projects are you working on right now?”

These questions naturally open the door to professional exchange.

6. Ending and Exchanging Contact Details

Don’t forget to close the conversation politely and, if relevant, exchange contact details.

Examples:

• “It was great meeting you. May I add you on LinkedIn?”

• “I’d love to stay in touch. Do you have a business card?”

• “Thanks for the conversation. I’ll follow up with you after the event.”

Key Takeaway

At conferences and events:

1. Start simple with a friendly question.

2. Use breaks to meet new people.

3. Join groups politely.

4. Talk about the event as an easy opener.

5. Transition naturally into business topics.

6. End with a polite goodbye and exchange contact details.

With practice, you’ll feel more relaxed – and conferences will become great opportunities for building your network.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on how to introduce colleagues and business partners professionally in English.

Being able to make introductions is a key skill in international business.
It shows respect, builds trust, and helps everyone feel comfortable.

1. Why introductions matter

A good introduction:

• creates a professional atmosphere,

• helps others remember names and roles,

• and shows your colleague or partner in a positive light.

Your job is to make the other person look good.

2. The Basic Formula

When introducing someone, include:

1. Their name

2. Their role/job title

3. Their company/department

4. (Optional) One positive detail

Example:

• “I’d like to introduce my colleague, Sarah Johnson. She’s our marketing manager at Deloitte.”

• “This is Mr. Müller, one of our business partners from Siemens. He’s in charge of product development.”

3. Adding a Positive Detail

You can make the introduction more personal by adding a short compliment or fact.

Examples:

• “She’s been leading our latest project on digital transformation.”

• “He has extensive experience working with international clients.”

• “She’s the person to talk to about financial strategy.”

Keep it short, professional, and relevant.

4. Introducing Two People to Each Other

Sometimes you connect two people who don’t know each other.

Structure:

• “Anna, this is John Smith. John is the head of our sales department. Anna works in international marketing.”

• “I’d like you both to meet. Peter, this is Maria – she’s one of our partners in Spain. Maria, Peter is responsible for our German clients.”

Give just enough information so they can start talking.

5. Polite Phrases for Introductions

• “May I introduce my colleague…?”

• “I’d like you to meet…”

• “This is…”

• “Please meet my business partner…”

• “Allow me to introduce…”

6. Cultural Tip

In English-speaking business culture, it’s common to use first names quickly.
But if the situation is very formal, you can also use Mr./Ms. + Last Name.

Adapt your style to the context and company culture.

7. Example Mini-Dialogue

• “Everyone, I’d like to introduce our partner from London, Mr. James Parker. He’s the director of Parker Consulting.”

• “Nice to meet you.”

• “James, this is Anna Müller, our HR manager in Berlin.”

• “Pleasure to meet you, Anna.”

Key Takeaway

When introducing colleagues or business partners:

1. Say their name clearly.

2. Mention their role and company.

3. Add a short, positive detail.

4. If introducing two people, give both sides just enough info to connect.

A good introduction makes everyone feel welcome and sets the tone for a professional relationship.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on how to socialize at business lunches, dinners, and receptions.

These are not just about food or drinks – they’re about building trust, strengthening relationships, and getting to know people outside the meeting room.

1. Why Business Meals Matter

Meals and receptions create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Here, people often talk about work and personal interests.
That makes it a great chance to connect on a deeper level.

But remember: it’s still a professional setting.

2. Starting the Conversation

When you first sit down or join a table, you can use simple, polite openers:

• “Have you tried this restaurant before?”

• “The atmosphere here is really nice, isn’t it?”

• “I always enjoy the chance to step outside the office for lunch.”

At receptions:

• “How do you know the host?”

• “Have you attended this event before?”

3. Safe Conversation Topics

During meals, you don’t have to talk about business all the time.
In fact, it’s normal to mix personal and professional topics.

Safe topics include:

• Travel: “Do you travel often for work?”

• Food: “Do you like Italian cuisine?”

• Sports or hobbies: “Do you follow football?”

• The city: “Have you had a chance to explore [city] yet?”

Keep it light and positive.

4. Transitioning to Business

At some point, the conversation may shift back to work.
Here are polite ways to do it:

• “By the way, how is your team handling [topic] at the moment?”

• “I was curious, how did you first get into this field?”

• “Speaking of projects, what are you working on these days?”

Keep it natural – don’t jump straight into heavy negotiations over dinner.

5. Table Manners & Etiquette

Good manners make a strong impression.

• Wait until everyone is served before eating.

• Don’t talk with your mouth full.

• Put your phone away.

• Drink alcohol moderately (or politely refuse).

Remember: You are being observed – your behavior reflects your professionalism.

6. Ending the Meal or Reception

When the lunch, dinner, or reception is over, end on a positive note.

Useful phrases:

• “Thank you for the wonderful meal.”

• “I really enjoyed our conversation.”

• “This was a great evening – I hope we can do it again.”

If appropriate, suggest a next step:

• “Let’s follow up next week about the project.”

• “I’ll send you an email tomorrow.”

7. Mini-Dialog Example

A: “This restaurant is lovely. Have you been here before?”
B: “Yes, once last year. The seafood is excellent.”
A: “Great, I’ll have to try it. By the way, how’s your team’s new project going?”
B: “We’ve just started – it’s an exciting challenge.”

Notice how the talk moves naturally from small talk to business.

Key Takeaway

At business lunches, dinners, and receptions:

1. Start with light, friendly conversation.

2. Use safe topics like food, travel, or hobbies.

3. Transition gently into business when it feels natural.

4. Show good table manners.

5. End on a positive note – and suggest a follow-up.

With these strategies, you’ll feel confident in any business social setting.

In this lesson, we’ll look at an important part of business communication:
cross-cultural differences in small talk.

Small talk may seem simple, but what’s considered appropriate can vary a lot from culture to culture.
If you know these differences, you’ll avoid awkward moments and build better relationships.

1. Why Cross-Cultural Awareness Matters

In international business, you often meet people from very different backgrounds.
A topic that feels “normal” in your country might be sensitive in another.

Example:

• In some cultures, talking about money is very normal.

• In others, it’s considered rude or too personal.

So it’s important to choose safe topics and watch how the other person reacts.

2. Safe Small Talk Topics (Almost Everywhere)

These are usually good in most countries:

• The weather: “Beautiful day today, isn’t it?”

• Food and drinks: “The lunch here is delicious.”

• Travel: “Is this your first time in [city/country]?”

• Sports (non-political): “Do you follow football?”

• The event itself: “What did you think of the presentation?”

These topics are neutral and easy to answer.

3. Topics to Be Careful With

Some topics may be safe in one culture but sensitive in another.

• Family:
  In the U.S., asking about family is common.
  In Germany or Japan, it may feel too private at first.

• Work/Life Balance:
  In Northern Europe, people separate work and private life.
  In Asia, talking about long working hours can be seen as normal.

• Personal Opinions:
  In some cultures, openly disagreeing is fine.
  In others, it can be seen as impolite.

  
  

4. Topics to Avoid

In most international business settings, avoid:

• Politics: “What do you think about the government?”

• Religion: “Do you go to church?”

• Salary or money: “How much do you earn?”

• Controversial topics: “What’s your opinion on immigration?”

These can easily create tension or offense.

5. Tips for Cross-Cultural Small Talk

1. Start Neutral: Use safe topics like weather, food, or the event.

2. Observe: Watch the other person’s reaction – if they seem uncomfortable, change the topic.

3. Mirror: If they share something personal, you can share at a similar level.

4. Keep it Positive: Avoid complaints or negative comments.

6. Mini-Dialog Examples

Safe:
A: “Is this your first time in Paris?”
B: “Yes, it is. I love the city so far.”

Risky:
A: “So, what do you think about the president?”
B: (Awkward silence)

See the difference? Safe topics build bridges, risky topics can build walls.

Key Takeaway

When making small talk across cultures:

1. Stick to neutral topics first.

2. Avoid politics, religion, money, and controversial issues.

3. Be sensitive to cultural differences and adapt quickly.

This way, your small talk will always feel professional and respectful – no matter where you are in the world.

In this lesson, we’ll go over the dos and don’ts of professional in-person networking.

Meeting people face-to-face is still one of the most powerful ways to build relationships. But how you behave can make the difference between leaving a great impression or an awkward one.

1. The Dos – What You Should Do

Let’s start with the positive – the things that really help you succeed:

Be prepared:

• Bring business cards, a pen, or a way to exchange contact details.

• Have a short self-introduction ready.

Smile and use open body language:

• A friendly smile makes you approachable.

• Stand tall, make eye contact, and shake hands (if culturally appropriate).

Listen actively:

• Show genuine interest.

• Nod, make short comments like “That’s interesting.”

• Let the other person speak without interrupting.

Ask open-ended questions:

• “What kind of projects are you working on right now?”

• “What do you enjoy most about your work?”

Follow up:

• If you exchange contact information, send a short message afterwards to keep the connection alive.

2. The Don’ts – What to Avoid

Now, let’s look at the mistakes that can hurt your networking success.

Don’t dominate the conversation:

• Networking is about exchange, not monologues.

Don’t be overly pushy:

• Avoid selling your product or service immediately.

• Focus on the relationship first.

Don’t ignore body language:

• If the other person looks distracted, don’t keep talking endlessly.

Don’t complain:

• Negative comments about the event, the food, or people leave a bad impression.

Don’t forget cultural differences:

• A firm handshake may be normal in the US, but not in Japan.

• Adapt your behavior to the situation.

3. Mini-Dialogue Examples

Good example:
A: “Hi, my name is Anna. It’s nice to meet you. What brings you to this conference?”
B: “Hi Anna, I’m John. I work in digital marketing.”
A: “That sounds interesting! What kind of projects are you working on right now?”

This shows openness, interest, and professionalism.

Bad example:
A: “Hi, I’m Anna. I sell software. Would you like to buy it?”
B: (Uncomfortable silence)

Too pushy – this kills the conversation.

Key Takeaway

At professional networking events:

1. Do smile, listen, ask questions, and follow up.

2. Don’t dominate, complain, or push too hard.

3. Always adapt to cultural differences.

With the right balance of friendliness and professionalism, you’ll leave a positive impression and build long-lasting business connections.

In this lesson, we’ll cover the basics of professional telephone communication:
how to answer calls politely and how to start a call in a professional way.

Speaking on the phone can be tricky because you don’t see the other person’s body language – so words, tone, and clarity are even more important.

1. Answering Calls Professionally

When you pick up the phone in a business context, always:

1. Greet the caller.

2. Identify yourself and/or your company.

3. Offer help.

Examples:

• “Good morning, this is Anna Smith from Global Solutions. How can I help you?”

• “Hello, marketing department, this is John speaking.”

• “Thank you for calling BrightTech. How may I assist you?”

Keep it clear, friendly, and professional.

2. Starting a Call as the Caller

When you make the call, introduce yourself right away:

1. Greet the person.

2. State your name and company.

3. Explain the reason for your call.

Examples:

• “Good afternoon, this is Maria Lopez from Deloitte. I’m calling about our upcoming meeting.”

• “Hello, this is Peter Johnson with Green Energy Ltd. I’d like to speak with Ms. Miller, please.”

• “Good morning, my name is Ahmed Khan from ABC Consulting. I’m calling to confirm the delivery details.”

Being clear from the beginning saves time and sets a professional tone.

3. Asking for the Right Person

Sometimes, you’ll need to be transferred or ask for someone directly.

Polite phrases include:

• “May I speak to Mr. Smith, please?”

• “Could you connect me with the HR department?”

• “I’d like to talk to someone responsible for customer service, please.”

Always add please – politeness is essential on the phone.

4. If the Person Isn’t Available

It’s common that the person you want isn’t available. Here’s what you can say:

• “Could I leave a message, please?”

• “When would be a good time to call back?”

• “Could you please ask her to return my call?”

5. Key Tips for Professional Phone Calls

• Speak slowly and clearly.

• Smile – it actually makes your voice sound friendlier.

• Avoid slang or overly casual language.

• Always thank the person before ending the call.

6. Mini-Dialogue Example

Answering:
A: “Good morning, finance department, this is Lisa speaking.”
B: “Good morning Lisa, this is James Brown from City Bank. Could I speak to Mr. Taylor, please?”
A: “Of course, I’ll transfer you.”

Starting:
A: “Good afternoon, this is Ahmed Khan from ABC Consulting. I’m calling to confirm our meeting tomorrow at 10.”
B: “Yes, thank you for calling. We’ll see you then.”

Key Takeaway

Whether answering or starting calls:

1. Always greet politely.

2. State your name and/or company clearly.

3. Be clear about your purpose.

4. Speak slowly, clearly, and professionally.

Mastering these basics will make every business call smoother and more professional.

In this lesson, we’ll look at how to exchange important information clearly and professionally.
This includes spelling names, giving numbers, and confirming details.

Why is this important?
Because a small mistake – a wrong letter, a wrong number – can cause big problems in business.

1. Spelling Names and Words

When you need to spell a name or a word, use the NATO phonetic alphabet or clear equivalents.

Example:

• “My name is Clark – C as in Charlie, L as in Lima, A as in Alpha, R as in Romeo, K as in Kilo.”

This avoids confusion between similar-sounding letters, like B/D, M/N, or P/T.

If you don’t know the phonetic alphabet, you can still use clear examples:

• “That’s B as in Berlin, D as in David.”

2. Giving Numbers Clearly

Numbers are easy to misunderstand, especially on the phone.
Here’s how to make them clear:

• Say each digit separately: “My number is four, five, six – seven, three, two – one, nine.”

• For double numbers, you can use “double”: “0044” → “double zero, four, four.”

• For decimal points, say “point”: “3.14” → “three point one four.”

Tip: Pause between groups of numbers.

3. Giving Dates and Times

• Use the 24-hour clock in business to avoid confusion:
  “The meeting is at 14:30” (not “2:30”).

• For dates, be clear about the format:

  • US: “May 6th” = 5/6

  • UK/Europe: “6th of May” = 6/5
    ? Always say the month by name to avoid mistakes.

4. Confirming Information

Always repeat and confirm details to make sure both sides understood.

Examples:

• “Let me repeat that: Your email is anna.smith@brighttech.com, correct?”

• “So, the meeting is on Thursday the 12th at 3 p.m., right?”

• “Just to confirm: Your phone number is 456-732-19.”

This step is essential – don’t skip it.

5. Mini-Dialogue Examples

Spelling a Name:
A: “Could you spell your last name, please?”
B: “Sure – Müller. M as in Mike, U as in Uniform, L as in Lima, L as in Lima, E as in Echo, R as in Romeo.”

Giving a Number:
A: “What’s your order number?”
B: “It’s 472-65-91. That’s four, seven, two – six, five – nine, one.”

Confirming Details:
A: “So, our call is on Tuesday the 10th at 10 a.m., correct?”
B: “Yes, that’s right.”

Key Takeaway

When exchanging information:

1. Spell names using clear examples or the phonetic alphabet.

2. Say numbers digit by digit, with pauses.

3. Be precise with dates and times.

4. Always confirm by repeating the details.

Clear communication saves time, avoids mistakes, and makes you sound professional.

In this lesson, we’ll look at one of the most common phone situations in business:
scheduling and confirming appointments.

This is an essential skill because business often depends on setting the right time and making sure everyone is on the same page.

1. Asking to Schedule an Appointment

When you want to set up a meeting, use polite and clear phrases:

• “I’d like to schedule a meeting with you next week.”

• “When would be a convenient time for you?”

• “Are you available on Thursday morning?”

• “Would you be free for a call later this week?”

Always give options, not just one time.

Example:

• “I’m available on Tuesday at 10 a.m. or Thursday at 3 p.m. Which works better for you?”

2. Accepting an Appointment

When the time works for you:

• “That works perfectly for me.”

• “Yes, Tuesday at 10 a.m. is fine.”

• “Thursday afternoon sounds good.”

Always repeat the date and time to confirm.

3. Rescheduling (If You’re Not Available)

If the suggested time doesn’t work, be polite and offer an alternative:

• “I’m afraid I’m not available on Thursday. Would Friday morning work instead?”

• “Unfortunately, I have another meeting at that time. Could we do it later in the afternoon?”

Don’t just say “no” – always propose another time.

4. Confirming Appointments

Before finishing the call, confirm the details clearly:

• “So, to confirm: We’ll meet on Wednesday the 14th at 2 p.m. at your office, correct?”

• “Just to make sure: Our call is scheduled for Friday at 9 a.m. Central European Time.”

This step avoids misunderstandings.

5. Changing or Cancelling an Appointment

If you need to cancel, always apologize and reschedule immediately:

• “I’m very sorry, but I need to reschedule our meeting. Would next Monday work for you instead?”

• “Unfortunately, I have to cancel our appointment for tomorrow. Could we move it to later this week?”

6. Mini-Dialogue Example

Scheduling:
A: “Good morning, this is Sarah from BrightTech. I’d like to schedule a meeting with you next week.”
B: “Sure. How about Thursday afternoon?”
A: “I’m afraid I’m not available then. Would Friday morning work?”
B: “Yes, Friday at 10 a.m. works.”
A: “Great. So we’re confirmed for Friday the 16th at 10 a.m. at our office.”
B: “Perfect, see you then.”

Key Takeaway

When scheduling and confirming appointments:

1. Be polite and flexible – give options.

2. Repeat details to confirm.

3. If you cancel, always apologize and suggest a new time.

Clear scheduling avoids mistakes and shows professionalism.

In this lesson, we’ll look at how to leave professional voicemail messages and how to understand messages you receive.

Voicemail is common in business – but many people don’t feel comfortable with it. The key is: be clear, be polite, and be brief.

1. Structure of a Professional Voicemail

When you leave a voicemail, always include 4 things:

1. Greeting

2. Your name & company

3. Reason for your call

4. Contact details & call-to-action

Example:

• “Hello, this is Anna Smith from GlobalTech. I’m calling to confirm our meeting for Thursday at 3 p.m. Please call me back at 555-2987. Thank you.”

2. Useful Phrases for Leaving Messages

• “Hello, this is [Name] from [Company]. I’m calling about [topic].”

• “Please call me back at [number].”

• “You can reach me at [email/phone number].”

• “I’ll try calling again tomorrow if I don’t hear from you.”

Keep it short – 20 to 30 seconds is enough.

3. Understanding Voicemail Messages

When you listen to a voicemail, focus on 3 things:

1. Who is calling (Name, Company)

2. Why they are calling (Purpose)

3. What action you need to take (Call back, confirm, send info)

Tip: Always write down:

• Caller’s name

• Phone number

• Date & time of the call

• Action required

4. Asking for Clarification in Voicemail

If you didn’t understand the number or name, it’s okay to ask the caller to repeat slowly in your own voicemail:

• “Could you please repeat your phone number slowly?”

• “I didn’t catch your last name – could you please spell it in your message?”

5. Mini-Dialogue Examples

Leaving a Message:
A: “Hello, this is David Brown from EuroConsult. I’m calling to discuss the report you sent last week. Please call me back at 0044-765-392-10. Thank you.”

Understanding a Message (Note-taking):
Caller: “Hi, this is Laura Kim from TechWorld. I’m calling to reschedule our call to Friday at 2 p.m. Please confirm by email at laura.kim@techworld.com.”

Your notes:

• Name: Laura Kim

• Company: TechWorld

• Reason: Reschedule meeting → Friday 2 p.m.

• Action: Confirm by email

6. Key Tips

• Speak slowly and clearly.

• Always repeat your phone number.

• Write down key details when listening.

• Keep messages short and professional.

Key Takeaway

Voicemail is not difficult – as long as you:

• use a clear structure,

• keep it short,

• and focus on essential details.

That way, your message will always sound professional and easy to understand.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on how to handle difficult phone calls politely and professionally.

Sometimes you’ll have to deal with:

• an angry or frustrated caller,

• misunderstandings,

• bad phone connections,

• or requests you can’t fulfill.

The good news is: with the right phrases, you can stay calm, polite, and professional – even in tough situations.

1. General Tips for Difficult Calls

• Stay calm and don’t take it personally.

• Speak slowly and clearly.

• Use polite phrases to acknowledge the problem and show empathy.

• Focus on solutions, not problems.

2. Polite Phrases for Different Situations

A. Angry or Frustrated Caller

• “I completely understand your frustration.”

• “I’m very sorry to hear that. Let me see how I can help.”

• “Thank you for explaining the situation. Let’s find a solution together.”

Show empathy first, then offer help.

B. Misunderstandings or Miscommunication

• “Let me repeat that to make sure I understood correctly.”

• “Just to clarify, you mean…”

• “Could you please explain that one more time?”

Repeat or rephrase to avoid mistakes.

C. Bad Phone Connection

• “I’m sorry, the line isn’t very clear.”

• “Could you please speak a little more slowly?”

• “Shall I call you back so we have a better connection?”

Stay polite, even if it’s technical.

D. Saying No Politely

Sometimes you cannot do what the caller wants. Stay polite and offer alternatives:

• “I’m afraid that’s not possible at the moment, but what I can do is…”

• “Unfortunately, I’m not able to do that, but may I suggest…”

• “I understand your request, but company policy doesn’t allow this. Let me offer another option.”

3. Mini-Dialogue Examples

Angry Caller:
A: “This order is late again! I’m really upset.”
B: “I completely understand your frustration. I’m very sorry about this delay. Let me check your order right away so we can solve this.”

Misunderstanding:
A: “So, we’ll meet on the 6th, right?”
B: “Just to clarify, do you mean June 6th or July 6th?”

Bad Connection:
A: “…zzzz… meeting at 3…”
B: “I’m sorry, the line isn’t very clear. Could you please repeat the time of the meeting?”

Saying No Politely:
A: “Can you deliver tomorrow?”
B: “I’m afraid that’s not possible at the moment, but we can deliver first thing on Monday.”

Key Takeaway

When handling difficult calls:

1. Stay calm and polite.

2. Acknowledge the problem – show empathy.

3. Use polite phrases to clarify, apologize, or offer solutions.

4. Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t.

With these techniques, you’ll turn difficult calls into opportunities to show professionalism and build trust.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on a skill that is absolutely essential for modern business networking:
? how to write professional networking emails.

Email is often the first impression you make in business, so it needs to be clear, polite, and professional.

1. Structure of a Professional Networking Email

Every good networking email should have four parts:

1. Subject line – short, clear, specific.

   • “Follow-up: Meeting at Tech Conference”

   • “Introduction: John Smith from Bright Solutions”

2. Greeting – use the correct name and title if possible.

   • “Dear Ms. Taylor,”

   • “Hello Mark,”

3. Body – explain briefly who you are, why you’re writing, and what you suggest.

   • Be concise: 3–4 sentences is often enough.

4. Closing & Signature – polite ending + clear contact info.

   • “Best regards, Anna Smith, GlobalTech – anna.smith@globaltech.com”

2. Writing Introduction Emails

When you contact someone for the first time:

• Say who you are:
  “My name is Laura Kim, and I work as a project manager at Deloitte.”

• Explain why you’re writing:
  “We met briefly at the Green Energy Forum last week.”
  “I was impressed by your presentation on renewable energy.”

• Suggest a next step:
  “I’d love to stay in touch and perhaps schedule a short call to exchange ideas.”

Keep it short, professional, and friendly.

3. Writing Follow-up Emails

After a meeting, event, or call, it’s important to follow up.

Key steps:

1. Thank the person.
   “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday.”

2. Mention a detail from your conversation.
   “I really enjoyed our discussion about future marketing trends.”

3. Suggest a next step.
   “As discussed, I’ll send you the report next week.”
   “Let’s schedule a call to explore possible collaboration.”

4. Polite Phrases for Networking Emails

Introductions:

• “I hope this message finds you well.”

• “It was a pleasure meeting you at [event].”

• “I’m reaching out to introduce myself.”

Follow-ups:

• “I wanted to thank you again for your time.”

• “As promised, I’m sending you…”

• “I look forward to continuing our conversation.”

5. Mini-Example: Introduction Email

Subject: Introduction – Laura Kim, Deloitte
Message:
Dear Mr. Brown,

My name is Laura Kim, and I am a project manager at Deloitte. We met briefly at the Green Energy Forum last week. I really enjoyed your presentation on sustainable business practices.

I’d love to stay in touch and perhaps schedule a short call to exchange ideas.

Best regards,
Laura Kim

6. Mini-Example: Follow-up Email

Subject: Follow-up: Marketing Conference Meeting
Message:
Dear Sarah,

It was great meeting you at the Digital Marketing Conference yesterday. I really enjoyed our discussion about social media strategies.

As we discussed, I’ll send you the case study later this week. Let’s also plan a call next week to explore possible collaboration.

Best regards,
David Johnson

Key Takeaway

When writing networking emails:

1. Keep them short and professional.

2. Always introduce yourself clearly.

3. Mention where or how you met.

4. Suggest a clear next step.

5. Always close politely with full contact info.

With these simple rules, your networking emails will make a strong and professional impression.

In the last lesson, we learned how to write professional networking emails.
Today, we’ll go one step further and focus on subject lines and polite email phrases – the small details that make a big difference in how your emails are received.

1. Why Subject Lines Matter

Your subject line is the first impression.
A good subject line should be:

• Short and clear (4–7 words)

• Specific (mention meeting, event, or purpose)

• Professional (avoid emojis or casual slang in business emails)

Examples:

• “Follow-up: Meeting at GreenTech Conference”

• “Introduction: Anna Smith from Deloitte”

• “Request: Scheduling a Call Next Week”

• “Information: Report on Sales Trends Q2”

If your subject line is vague (“Hi” or “Question”), your email may be ignored.

2. Polite Opening Phrases

Start your email in a friendly but professional way:

• “I hope this message finds you well.”

• “It was a pleasure meeting you at [event].”

• “I’m reaching out to follow up on our conversation.”

• “Thank you for getting back to me so quickly.”

These phrases create a positive tone right from the start.

3. Polite Phrases in the Email Body

When making requests or suggestions, use soft and polite language:

Instead of: “Send me the report.”
Say:

• “Could you please send me the report by Friday?”

• “I would appreciate it if you could share the report.”

Instead of: “We need to meet next week.”
Say:

• “Would you be available to meet next week?”

• “I’d like to suggest a meeting next week, if that works for you.”

Politeness shows respect and builds trust.

4. Polite Closing Phrases

Finish your email with a clear and professional closing:

• “I look forward to your reply.”

• “Thank you for your time and support.”

• “Please let me know if you need any further information.”

• “Best regards / Kind regards / Sincerely,”

5. Mini-Example Email

Subject: Follow-up: Marketing Conference Conversation

Message:
Dear Mr. Johnson,

I hope this message finds you well. It was a pleasure meeting you at the Digital Marketing Conference last week. I really enjoyed our discussion about social media strategies.

I’d like to suggest a short call next week to exchange ideas in more detail. Would you be available on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning?

I look forward to your reply.

Best regards,
Laura Kim

Key Takeaway

When writing emails:

1. Use clear subject lines that show purpose.

2. Start with a polite opening phrase.

3. Use soft, professional language when making requests.

4. End with a polite closing that invites a reply.

These small details will make your emails stand out as professional, respectful, and effective.

In the next lesson, we’ll explore how to use LinkedIn effectively for professional networking.

See you there! ?

In this lesson, we’ll explore one of the most powerful tools for professional networking today:
LinkedIn – and how to use messages and comments to build strong business relationships.

1. Why LinkedIn is Important

LinkedIn is not just an online CV. It’s a platform to:

• connect with professionals in your industry,

• share knowledge and insights,

• and create opportunities for collaboration.

The way you communicate on LinkedIn – in messages and comments – can make a big difference in how others see you.

2. Writing Professional LinkedIn Messages

When you connect with someone new, always personalize your message.

A. Connection Request Message

• “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [event]. I’d love to connect here on LinkedIn.”

• “Hello [Name], I enjoyed your article on [topic]. I’d be happy to connect and stay in touch.”

Never send the default “I’d like to add you to my network” – it feels impersonal.

B. Follow-up Message

After connecting:

• “Thank you for connecting, [Name]. I look forward to following your posts.”

• “I really enjoyed our conversation at [event]. Let’s keep in touch.”

• “I’d love to hear more about your work at [Company] – perhaps we could schedule a short call.”

Keep it short and professional, not like a sales pitch.

3. Commenting on Posts

Comments are a powerful way to stay visible and show your expertise.

A. Positive Feedback

• “Great insights, thanks for sharing!”

• “I completely agree with your point on [topic].”

B. Adding Value

• “Interesting perspective – in my experience at [company], we found that…”

• “Thanks for posting this. I’d also recommend [tool/resource].”

C. Asking Questions

• “That’s a great idea. How do you see this developing in the next few years?”

• “Interesting point. Do you think this also applies to smaller businesses?”

Be respectful and constructive – LinkedIn comments are public!

4. Do’s and Don’ts on LinkedIn

Do:

• Personalize connection requests.

• Be polite and professional.

• Add value in comments.

• Keep messages short and clear.

Don’t:

• Send sales pitches immediately.

• Write negative or critical comments.

• Over-message people without a response.

5. Mini-Dialogue Examples

Message:
A: “Hi Sarah, it was great meeting you at the Startup Summit. I’d love to connect here on LinkedIn and keep in touch.”
B: “Hi Anna, thank you! It was nice meeting you too. Looking forward to staying connected.”

Comment:
Post: “The future of AI in healthcare is very exciting.”
Comment: “Absolutely! In my work at MedTech Solutions, we’ve already seen how AI can improve diagnostics. Thanks for starting this discussion!”

6. Key Takeaway

When networking on LinkedIn:

1. Always personalize messages.

2. Keep messages short, polite, and professional.

3. Use comments to add value and stay visible.

4. Build relationships – not just contacts.

With these techniques, LinkedIn becomes a powerful tool to grow your professional network.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on one of the most important parts of networking:
following up after a meeting or event.

Meeting people is just the first step – what really matters is how you continue the relationship afterwards.

1. Why Follow-ups Matter

• People meet many contacts at events. A follow-up helps them remember you.

• It shows professionalism and genuine interest.

• It helps you move the relationship forward (to a meeting, call, or collaboration).

Without a follow-up, most contacts will simply fade away.

2. When to Follow Up

• Within 24–48 hours of the meeting or event.

• Strike while the memory is still fresh.

• A short, polite message is better than waiting too long.

3. How to Follow Up – The Structure

Step 1: Thank them

• “It was a pleasure meeting you at [event].”

• “Thank you for taking the time to talk with me yesterday.”

Step 2: Mention a detail

• “I really enjoyed our discussion about renewable energy trends.”

• “Your insights on digital marketing were very helpful.”

Step 3: Suggest the next step

• “I’d love to continue our conversation with a short call next week.”

• “As discussed, I’ll send you the presentation by Friday.”

• “Let’s explore potential collaboration between our companies.”

Step 4: Close politely

• “I look forward to staying in touch.”

• “Best regards, [Your Name]”

4. Example Follow-up Email

Subject: Great meeting you at the GreenTech Conference

Message:
Dear Mr. Johnson,

It was a pleasure meeting you at the GreenTech Conference yesterday. I really enjoyed our discussion about sustainable business practices.

As mentioned, I’d love to continue our conversation with a short call next week. Would you be available on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
Anna Smith

5. Follow-ups on LinkedIn

If you prefer LinkedIn:

• “Hi Sarah, it was great talking to you at the Startup Summit. I’d love to connect here and continue our conversation about new technologies.”

Keep it short and personal.

6. Polite Follow-up Phrases

• “It was great meeting you at…”

• “I really appreciated your time.”

• “I’d like to continue our conversation about…”

• “Would you be open to a short call next week?”

• “I look forward to staying in touch.”

Key Takeaway

Effective networking doesn’t stop at the event.
A professional follow-up ... :

1. Thanks the person

2. Reminds them of your conversation

3. Suggests a next step

4. Keeps the relationship alive

By mastering follow-ups, you turn short meetings into long-term professional connections.

Congratulations! ?

You’ve made it all the way to the end of this course. That’s a fantastic achievement, and you should be proud of yourself.

Over the past lessons, you’ve learned:

• how to introduce yourself professionally,

• how to build rapport and keep conversations flowing,

• how to network confidently in person, on the phone, and online,

• and how to follow up and maintain relationships over time.

These are skills that many professionals struggle with – and now, you have a clear set of tools, phrases, and strategies to use in real business situations.

What this means for you

• You can now walk into a conference or meeting with confidence.

• You can write professional emails and LinkedIn messages that get responses.

• And you know how to make a strong first impression and keep the connection alive.

That puts you one step ahead in your career and in your personal growth.

Continuing Your Journey

Remember: networking and communication are skills.
The more you practice, the more natural and effective you’ll become.

Here are a few suggestions for your next steps:

1. Use the Networking Plan worksheet – keep it active and review it monthly.

2. Keep practicing phrases aloud – make them sound natural.

3. Apply what you’ve learned at your very next opportunity – whether it’s an email, a call, or an event.

A Personal Thank You

Thank you so much for joining me in this course. Teaching over 50,000 students worldwide has shown me one thing: language and communication really do open doors.

I hope this course has inspired you to step confidently into your next business interaction.

Final Words

Stay curious. Stay confident.
And remember: every conversation is an opportunity to grow, connect, and succeed.

I look forward to seeing you again – in another course, or maybe even in real life at a conference or event.

Until then: keep practicing, keep learning, and keep building your future in English.

Congratulations again – and all the best for your journey! ?

See you soon,

Luca