INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Daily Life Conversations! Today’s episode is all about shopping online and making decisions when faced with too many choices. We’ve all been there, right?
In this episode, you’ll hear a conversation between a customer and a helpful customer service. The customer is on a mission to find the perfect phone – one with a great camera, plenty of storage, and the right price. Listen closely for vocabulary related to technology, promotions, and online shopping.
By the end of this episode, you’ll be more confident using English when shopping online, comparing products, and asking about policies. Let’s dive in!
2. CONVERSATION
Customer: I really need a new phone, but I’m not sure which one to get. There are so many options!
Customer Service : Hi there! I can help you find a phone that meets your needs. What features are you looking for?
Customer: I’d like something with a good camera since I love taking photos, and it should have enough storage for all my apps and pictures.
Customer Service : Great! Do you have a specific brand in mind, or are you open to suggestions?
Customer: I’m open to suggestions, but I’ve heard a lot about the latest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models. I want something that will last a few years.
Customer Service : Both brands are excellent choices. The latest iPhone has an outstanding camera system and comes with 128GB of storage as a base option. The Samsung Galaxy also has a fantastic camera and offers up to 256GB of storage.
Customer: Nice! What’s the price difference between the two?
Customer Service : The latest iPhone starts at $999, while the Samsung Galaxy starts at $899. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the storage option you choose.
Customer: That’s helpful. Do either of them have any promotions or discounts right now?
Customer Service : Yes! The Samsung Galaxy has a promotion where you can get $100 off if you trade in your old phone. The iPhone currently doesn’t have any trade-in offers, but we do have financing options available.
Customer: That’s good to know! If I decide to trade in my old phone, how does that process work?
Customer Service : It’s simple! Once you select the Galaxy and proceed to checkout, you’ll see the option to trade in your old device. Just enter the model and condition, and we’ll provide you with a trade-in value.
Customer: Perfect! I think I’m leaning toward the Samsung Galaxy, but I have one more question. What’s the return policy if I change my mind?
Customer Service : Our return policy allows you to return any unopened items within 30 days for a full refund. If you open the device and decide to return it, we can offer a refund or exchange within 15 days, but there may be a restocking fee.
Customer: That sounds fair. I think I’ll go ahead and order the Samsung Galaxy then!
Customer Service : Great choice! I’ll guide you through the checkout process. Do you need help with anything else?
Customer: No, that’s all for now. Thanks for your help!
Customer Service : You’re welcome! Enjoy your new phone!
3. VOCABULARY:
Options: Choices available to customers.
Features: Specific attributes or functionalities of a product.
Brand: A name or type of product made by a particular company.
Storage: The capacity to hold data on a device.
Promotion: A special offer or discount to encourage purchases.
Trade-in: Giving an old item as part of the payment for a new item.
Financing options: Plans available to pay for a purchase over time.
Return policy: Rules regarding returning purchased items for a refund or exchange.
4. IDIOMS:
“Leaning toward ”: Preferring one option over others.
“That sounds fair ”: Acknowledging that something seems reasonable or just.
“What features are you looking for? ” – A way to identify customer preferences.
“Do you have a specific brand in mind? ” – Asking about the customer's preferred brand.
“How does that process work? ” – Inquiring about the steps involved in a specific action.
“Enjoy your new phone! ” – A friendly way to conclude a conversation about a purchase.
6. CONCLUSION
That wraps up today’s episode of Daily Life Conversations! In this episode, you learned how to navigate an online chat with a customer service representative to make a tech purchase. From comparing features and prices to understanding promotions and return policies, we covered a lot of ground.
Take a moment to reflect on the new vocabulary and phrases you picked up, and consider how you might use them the next time you shop online. You can also re-listen to the conversation to solidify your understanding.
