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Ambitious Alex
Alex was an ambitious bartender, who made cocktails at a restaurant. His dream was to set up his own business and he only looked up to successful people. Alex didn’t want to deal with average people or annoying customers.
One afternoon, the owner of the restaurant asked him to chip in for a birthday present. It was the cleaner's birthday.
“I’m sorry,” said Alex. “I look up to you, but I don’t make enough money to chip in for a present, especially a present for a cleaner. I don’t look up to the cleaner”
“I understand Alex,” replied the owner. “I want to help you make more money. Would you be interested in a promotion? I think you’d be a great manager.”
“I’m definitely management material,” said Alex. “I’m surprised you haven’t asked before. Which area of the restaurant do you want me to manage?
“All will be revealed Alex, follow me and you’ll find out.”
Alex followed his boss to the men’s bathroom.
“Here you are Alex. You’re the new manager of cleaning the toilet. Don’t let me down!”
Further examples:
Why do you work for a big company? You should just set up your own business.
I really look up to my big brother, when I’m older I want to be like him.
I can’t deal with your problem right now, I’m busy.
We all need to chip in for Sammy’s birthday present.
I’m not sure you’re management material. You’re always late, and you’re rude to your colleagues.
I know you’re excited about your surprise, but don’t worry…. all will be revealed later.
I’m sorry I let you down, I’ll do better next time.
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Did you find this podcast useful? Why not try some of our vocabulary books designed for ESL students:
Mr Vocab’s Phrasal Verb Stories (PDF version) (Amazon book)
Mr Vocab’s Naked Idioms (PDF version) (Amazon book)