The moment

Jake has two days to find a birthday present for his sister. In a small clothing store in Austin, he finds the perfect sweater, but only in the wrong size. Grace, the salesperson, helps him work it out. Listen for how Jake explains what he needs, and for the two small questions that make the present safe to give.

The conversation

GraceJake
  1. Grace
  2. Jake
  3. Grace
  4. Jake
  5. Grace
  6. Jake
  7. Grace
  8. Jake
  9. Grace
  10. Jake
  11. Grace
  12. Jake
  13. Grace
  14. Jake

Words to know

yes, I'd like help; a friendly, soft request

liked by a certain group of people

another store of the same business

to be ready if something happens

collect something from a place

Check yourself

1What is the problem with the sweater?
2Why does Grace offer a gift receipt?
3What do they agree on in the end?

Practice · 3 min

Round one: repeat every line. Round two: mute Jake and say his lines, especially "I could use some help" and the request with two parts. Round three: mute Grace and practice being a helpful salesperson. Then think of the next present you need to buy and say who it's for and your budget out loud.

  1. GraceHi there. Can I help you find anything, or are you just looking?
  2. JakeActually, I could use some help. I'm looking for a present for my sister.
  3. GraceSure. What is she into, and what's your budget?
  4. JakeShe loves hiking and coffee. I'd like to keep it under seventy dollars.
  5. GraceThis wool sweater is really popular with hikers. It's on sale this week.
  6. JakeThat's perfect. Do you have it in a large? This one's a small.
  7. GraceLet me check. Sorry, we're out of large in green right now.
  8. JakeOh no. Her birthday is on Saturday, and green is her favorite color.
  9. GraceI can order it from our other location. It would arrive by Friday.
  10. JakeThat works. Could you order it in a large and gift-wrap it for me?
  11. GraceOf course. Would you like a gift receipt too, in case it doesn't fit?
  12. JakeYes, please. She's very honest, so she'll tell me if it doesn't.
  13. GraceGreat. I'll call you on Friday morning when it's ready to pick up.
  14. JakeThanks so much. You've saved my weekend.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.