Situation 1
Bill:'Bob, would you mind going to the Dorcia client meeting next week for me?'
Bob:'Where and when is it?'
Bill:'It's in Manchester at 10 in the morning.'
Bob:'I'm afraid I can't. I'm writing a presentation and I need to finish it by next Friday.'
Bill:'You could write it on the train going there.'
Bob:'I doubt I'd be of any use. I don't know anything about the client.'
Bill:'Well, I can tell you what you need to do. I'd really appreciate it.'
Bob:'Sorry Bill, I'd rather not.'
Bill:'I wouldn't ask you if it wasn't important.'
Bob:'I can appreciate that, but I need to focus on completing the presentation. Have you thought about asking Sally or Louise?'
Bill:'No I haven't, but I could.'
Bob:'Sorry Bill, I hope it doesn't cause you any problems.'
Bill:'Don't worry, it's fine.'
Situation 2
Jason:'Can I ask you a favour?'
Nicola:'What is it?'
Jason:'Could you do next month's sales report. I'll be on holiday and I need somebody I can trust to do it.'
Nicola:'I wish I could, but next month is really busy for me. I have 10 meetings and I have to finish the new staff training manual.'
Jason:'I can appreciate that, but I need somebody to do it.'
Nicola:'As I said, I don't have the time. I'm sorry. You don't mind, do you?'
Jason:'It needs to be done and I'm not going to be able to do it!'
Nicola:'Leave it with me. I'll let you know by Friday if I can do it.'
Jason:'Thanks.'