Introducing Yourself Before a Training Session
The first two minutes in the seminar room: introducing yourself, explaining your role and getting the conversation going.
Tip: listen to the episode twice before you start the test. · Worksheet (PDF)
✓ To the comprehension testYou may also like
Comprehension test
Listen first, then answer. No penalties — every explanation points to the moment in the conversation.
That is actually why I am here — my ___ sent me. He says my English is good, but too direct sometimes.
May I ask how the day is structured? Will there be group work? I have to ___, role plays make me a little nervous.
Transcript
Key phrases
Language notes
In this episode a participant introduces himself to the trainer before the seminar: greeting, describing his job, asking about the agenda. You learn the key phrases for a first introduction in English (level B1) — and why your German "Chef" works in a kitchen in English.
Introducing yourself: name, role, context
Stefan answers the standard question "What do you do?" in a model three-part structure: function ("I work in inside sales"), company/industry ("at a machine parts company") and what he actually does in simple words ("I mostly look after our international customers"). This three-part structure is the best answer template for any networking conversation — concrete enough for follow-up questions, short enough not to become a monologue.
Honesty as a conversation opener
Stefan's sentence "I have to admit, role plays make me a little nervous" is a small but effective small-talk move: an honest admission makes you likeable and gives the other person the chance to reassure you — which is exactly what Michael does ("nothing in front of the whole group, I promise"). In British and American working culture this light self-deprecation signals trust, not weakness.
False friend: Chef ≠ chef
When Stefan says "my chef sent me", Michael pictures a restaurant kitchen — because English "chef" only ever means a professional cook. The German "Chef" is "boss" (informal), "manager" or "line manager" (your direct superior, British English), or "supervisor". "Chief" on its own does not work either — it only exists in fixed titles like "Chief Financial Officer". Memory hook: if your chef sends you to an English course, he should take off the chef's hat first.
Keep practising: Learn business English online — with real teachers from Simmonds, since 2004.
Frequently asked questions
What language level is this episode for?
Level B1 (CEFR). The introduction dialogue uses clear everyday English; all eight key phrases are explained bilingually.
How do I introduce myself professionally in English?
Use the three-part structure: function ("I work in inside sales"), company or industry ("at a machine parts company") and what you do in simple words ("I look after our international customers"). Then ask a question back — that turns it into a conversation instead of a monologue.
How do you say "Chef" in English?
"Boss", "manager" or "line manager" — never "chef"! An English "chef" is a professional cook. This false friend regularly causes confusion because the words look identical.
Is there a transcript to read along?
Yes, the full transcript with German support notes is on this page — listen first, then take the test, then read along.
Where can I practise English small talk live?
In the online business English courses from Simmonds Language Services (englisch-lehrer.com/online): live lessons with real teachers on Zoom, for companies and individuals across Germany — book a free consultation directly on the page.
Want to practise these phrases in a real conversation?
The podcast trains your ear — in our online lessons you practise the conversation yourself, with real teachers. For companies across Germany since 2004.