Match English idioms with their Russian equivalents.

Replace your headings in the text with the proverbs from the table above and discuss with the partner situations of professional communication where these idioms could sound as good advice for a friend.

11. Read two dialogues between businessmen. What do think about them? What mistakes were made? What rules of business etiquette were broken by them?

Conversation 1

A: So, how is business?

B: Fine. This merger meant quite a lot of work for us, but, fine.

A: Well, mergers are often difficult. So, what do you think about the Middle-East situation?

B: I’m sorry?

A: The crisis in the Middle East. It was in the news this morning.

B: Er, well, I…

A: I mean, it must affect a company like yours - you are in oil.

B: No, I think, you’ve made a mistake. I’m not in oil. I work for BMW.

A: BMW? Oh, sorry! I thought you were someone else.

B: That’s ok. If you excuse me I must just go and say hello to someone.

Conversation 2

A: I like your watch. A Rolex, isn’t it?

B: Well, to be honest, but don’t tell anybody, it’s a fake.

A: No! It looks real to me. Where did you get it?

B: Egypt. It cost me twenty five dollars.

A: Amazing! So, do you know many people here?

B: No, not really. It’s the first time I’ve been to such a conference.

A: Me too. So, what is your hotel like?

B: Pretty comfortable. Nothing special, but it’s ok, I suppose.

A: You are at the Holiday Inn, aren’t you? Last year they held this conference in Mexico. The Hilton Cancun Fabulous Hotel, they say.

B: Cancun! A bit warmer than here, I think.

A: Yes, I went there on holiday once. A beautiful place! Can I get you anything from the buffet?

B: Oh, that’s all right. I’ll come with you. I’d like some more of that caviar before it all goes.