starting, continuing, and ending a transactional conv

Which of the following is an appropriate way to START a transactional conversation?

• By the way...

• I should get going.

• What’s new?

• Shall we talk about...?

• Okay, I’ll work on the proposal.

Which expression is commonly used to CONTINUE a conversation after small talk?

• So, how have you been?

• I actually wanted to talk to you about... Do you have a few minutes?

• Well, it was nice seeing you.

• Okay, I’ll talk with my team.

• So, did you hear that...?

You want to END a conversation politely. Which of these is most suitable?

• How was your weekend?

• Since you’re here, let me ask you about...

• Okay, I’ll talk with my team and I’ll give you a call tomorrow morning.

• So, how’s it going with...?

• By the way...

Which of these is NOT used for STARTING a transactional conversation?

• Keeping busy?

• So, what do you think about...?

• Anyway, let’s talk about...

• Do you have any plans for the weekend?

• What have you been up to?

“Shall we talk about…?” is best used when you want to:

• Greet someone

• Say goodbye

• Change the topic

• Continue or begin a meeting

• Ask about their weekend

Which expression is appropriate for ENDING a phone call?

• While I have you on the line, let me ask you about...

• I should get going. It was nice talking to you.

• So, how’s it going with the project?

• What have you been up to?

• By the way...

Choose the phrase that shows you are about to introduce a topic.

• So, did you hear that...?

• Okay, I’ll work on the proposal.

• Before I forget, I wanted to talk to you about...

• Do you have any plans for the weekend?

• It was nice seeing you.

You meet a colleague and want to check on their recent activities. What do you say?

• Shall we talk about...?

• What have you been up to?

• Well, I have to go.

• I’ll give you a call tomorrow.

• Let’s get started.

Which of these expressions is best for wrapping up a discussion during a meeting?

• Well, let’s get started...

• Okay, I’ll work on the proposal and send it to you by the end of the week.

• So, what do you think about...?

• Since you’re here, let me ask you about...

• Keeping busy?

“Well, let’s get started…” is commonly used when:

• Starting a casual conversation

• Starting a formal meeting

• Ending a phone call

• Saying goodbye to a friend

• Asking about weekend plans