Making an appointment can be complicated if two people are very busy. How do you find a time that is convenient for both of you? Once again, imagine you are making a telephone call. This time you are arranging an appointment to see someone. What phrases might you use or hear? Now listen to someone making a business appointment over the telephone.

Michelle:

Mr Hibberd’s office!

Peter:

Hello, can I speak to Brian Hibberd, please?

Michelle:

I’m afraid he’s in a meeting until lunchtime. Can I take a message?

Peter:

Well, I’d like to arrange an appointment to see him, please.   It’s Peter Jefferson here.

Michelle:

Could you hold on for a minute, Mr Jefferson. I’ll just look in the diary. So when’s convenient for you?

Peter:

Some time next week if possible. I gather he’s away the following week.

Michelle:

Yes, that’s right, he’s on holiday for a fortnight.

Peter:

Well, I need to see him before he goes away. So would next Wednesday be okay?

Michelle:

Wednesday . let me see . he's out of the office all morning. But he's free in the afternoon, after about three.

Peter:

Three o'clock is difficult. But I could make it after four.

Michelle:

So shall we say 4.15 next Wednesday, in Mr Hibberd's office?

Peter:

Yes, that sounds fine. Thanks very much.

Michelle:

Okay, then. Bye.