The moment

Marcus has had a cough for four days, and it isn't going away. He calls his clinic in Chicago to see a doctor. The problem: his usual doctor is booked for a week, and he's already missed two days of work. Listen for how he asks for something sooner without being rude, and how the receptionist finds a way.

The conversation

ReceptionistMarcus
  1. Receptionist
  2. Marcus
  3. Receptionist
  4. Marcus
  5. Receptionist
  6. Marcus
  7. Receptionist
  8. Marcus
  9. Receptionist
  10. Marcus
  11. Receptionist
  12. Marcus
  13. Receptionist

Words to know

book a time to see someone, like a doctor

how a receptionist or doctor asks what's wrong

a free time in someone's schedule

a time that's free because someone canceled

find time for someone in a busy schedule

Check yourself

1Why does Marcus ask for an earlier appointment?
2What does Marcus mean by "Thanks so much for fitting me in"?
3When will Marcus see a doctor?

Practice · 4 min

Round one: repeat every line in the gap. Round two: mute Marcus and make the call yourself. Keep "Sorry, but is there anything sooner?" soft and rising, a question, not a complaint. Round three: change the details to your own, like your name and how long you've felt unwell, and say Marcus's lines again.

  1. ReceptionistGood morning, Lakeview Clinic, this is Grace speaking.
  2. MarcusHi, I'd like to make an appointment, please. I haven't been feeling well.
  3. ReceptionistOh, that's no fun. Are you already a patient with us?
  4. MarcusYes, I've seen Dr. Kim a couple of times. My name's Marcus Johnson.
  5. ReceptionistGot it, Mr. Johnson. And what seems to be the problem?
  6. MarcusI've had a sore throat and a cough since Saturday, and it's getting worse.
  7. ReceptionistOK. I'm afraid Dr. Kim's first opening is next Thursday.
  8. MarcusNext Thursday? Sorry, but is there anything sooner? I've already missed two days of work.
  9. ReceptionistLet me check. Dr. Garcia has had a cancellation for tomorrow at four fifteen.
  10. MarcusThat works for me. I don't mind seeing a different doctor.
  11. ReceptionistGreat. Please come ten minutes early and bring your insurance card.
  12. MarcusWill do. Thanks so much for fitting me in.
  13. ReceptionistYou're welcome. I hope you feel better soon.

Say it today

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