| LISTEN TO THE CONVERSATION | |
| Practice Speaking – Select a Conversation Partner | |
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| Angela: How does Bill still have a job? He doesn’t know anything about this industry. He never contributes anything to our projects or meetings. Jacob: He just gets by on his good looks and personality. Since he is a really handsome and friendly guy, many people like spending time with him. So, our clients and business partners like him a lot. Angela: He shouldn’t be able to just get by on his looks. Jacob: I understand how you feel, but you have to realize that he does add a lot of value to the company. Angela: How so? Jacob: Well, for example, if a client is ever angry and thinking about ending their business with us, then we send Bill to meet with them. Bill will take them out to dinner or go golfing with them and convince the client to continue doing business with us. He is great at that kind of stuff. Angela: I guess you’re right, but he should improve his technical expertise. Jacob: I know, but Bill doesn’t like to study a lot. So, I wouldn’t expect him to change. | |
Key Vocabulary | |
| 1. to get by on/with (something): to survive by using or taking advantage of (something) | |
| • It is hard to get by on my salary, but we manage. | |
| • I’m having a hard time, but I can get by with a little help from my family and friends. | |
| 2. to add value: to make something better; to make something worth more | |
| • She adds a lot of value to our company. | |
| • How will this new computer system add value to our company? | |
| 3. to realize: to come to understand or know clearly | |
| • We realized that we were going to be late, so we called ahead and told everybody. | |
| • I didn’t realize that I had forgotten my plane ticket until I got to the airport. | |
