Here’s some great new conversational vocabulary to add to your arsenal: small talk about your job.
Remember: 1) You can download the audio 2) You can adjust the speed
Opening Dialogue
Jon: Hey, how’s the new gig?
Harry: Ah, not too shabby. Only a couple weeks in– I’m still feeling things out.
Jon: Yeah? Any surprises?
Harry: Not really. To tell you the truth, my mind’s been on vacation.
Jon: What? Already? Didn’t you just start?
Harry: Hear me out. Me and my girl’s 10 year anniversary is coming up. I want to be upfront with my boss about taking time off, but I’m just starting. So I’ve been holding off.
Jon: So when do you think you’re going to ask?
Harry: In about 5 minutes…
Key Phrases
gig (noun)
job, work
Example: She got a new gig as a recruiter. = She got new work as a recruiter.
- Note: same spelling and pronunciation as the “gig” that means computer space
to feel things out (verb)
to reserve your opinion until you spend more time with something
Example: I’m still feeling things out in Boston.= I can’t really share my opinion about Boston until I spend more time here.
to be upfront (verb)
to be honest/direct
Example: He wasn’t upfront about being divorced. = He didn’t tell people he was divorced.
to hold off (verb)
to wait until later
Example: Let’s hold off on traveling until I save more money. = Let’s wait until I save more money before traveling.
Take 2
“Not too shabby”
- Not bad
- Pretty good
- It’s aite
Oh, Faux Pas
Establish rapport with colleagues and supervisors sooner than later. This way, it’ll be less awkward when you need to make a request.
Credits
Special thanks to:
DJi5Cream for the opening “Red Velvet – Happiness”
Kevin MacLeod for the transitions: “Schmetterling” and “Brandenburg Concerto No4”
Picture courtesy of Jin
The Conversation Coach 