Some useful phrases for enquiries

We are looking for a new supplier.

We are very interested in your new range of products/ in ordering from you ...

We are interested in doing business with your company.

Please send us a current price list. Could you (please) send a list of your products …

Thank you for your interest in our products. Thank you for requesting information about…

Thank you for enquiring about…

I have attached a copy of our latest company brochure.

I will send you a copy of our new catalogue.

I would be grateful if you could send me further information… Could you please send me …

You will find further information on our website. More details are available on the website.

Visit our website at…

We are having some problems with the new machine. What would you advise us to do?

Who would you recommend? I can strongly recommend…

With reference to your enquiry/ e-mail…

Thank you for your enquiry. Thank you for contacting us.

I enclose a copy of our latest company brochure. I have enclosed the report. The report is enclosed.

The following phrases are often used to make suggestions

Suggestions	Responses
I think we should…	I don’t think we should…
How about…?	I am not sure about that
We could…	That might be the answer
We’d better…	That’ s a good idea
Why don’t we…	No, that’s simply not feasible

PRACTICE

Complete the sentences with a preposition.

Example: Many thanks for your prompt reply.

1. I have put some information_____________ the post.

2. We believe _______________ buying from local suppliers.

3. We are looking _____________ a new supplier.

4. I have forwarded your enquiry _____________BMES.

5. Where can I buy spare parts _____________ our machinery?

6. I am interested __________ your new range of furniture.

7. __________ reference __________ your enquiry, I have attached our latest brochure.

Ex.1. Match the two parts of the sentences used in making enquiries.

1. I’d like to know	a. some more information about our products.
2. We are having problems	b. to our brochure.
3. We can recommend	c. arranging a suitable delivery date.
4. We are looking	d. you could send us more information.
5. I’ll send you	e. where we can buy spare parts.
6. Please refer	f. a supplier in London.
7. We would like to arrange	g. on your website.
8. We would be grateful if	h. for a new supplier.
9. I couldn’t find the information	i. a visit

Module 3

Communications

A communication can be verbal when we use words to communicate with people. When we hear someone talking, we notice whether they are friendly or unfriendly, interested or bored, certain or uncertain, and so on. Therefore, communication includes both what we say and how we say. Body language, also called nonverbal communication is an important part. Different cultures may use different signals, though: shaking head from side to side means “no” in many cultures, but “yes” in some, for example in parts of Bulgaria and Sri Lanka. Feelings can be shown through body language without thinking about it. For example, if a person is bored, he or she may look away from the person speaking to them. Some businesspersons think that the best way for business communication is face-to-face communication for getting information across and things done in business. People also like e-mail and other forms of electronic communication.

Speak on the following ways of communication. Comment on each of the way and say which one is the most suitable for you?