You’ve been invited to a family event, but you have a significant work presentation scheduled for the same day.
Choose ONE:
- Talk to your family and explain why you can’t attend the event.
- Talk to your supervisor and ask for flexibility in the presentation schedule.
Sample Answer for Option A - click to open/hide answer!
Important Keywords:
Sample Answer:
Hi [Family Member’s Name], I wanted to talk to you about the upcoming family event. I’m honored to be invited and I really want to attend, but unfortunately, I have a major work presentation scheduled for the same day. I’ve been preparing for this presentation for a long time, and it’s really important for my career. I hope you understand that I can’t miss it, but I’d love to find another way to celebrate with the family. Perhaps we could plan a special get-together on another day, or I could join in via video call to stay involved. I’m really sorry about this conflict, and I hope we can find a way for me to still be a part of the celebration, even if it’s not in person.
Sample Answer for Option B - click to open/hide answer!
Important Keywords:
Sample Answer:
Hi [Supervisor’s Name], I wanted to talk to you about a scheduling conflict that’s come up. I’ve been invited to an important family event that falls on the same day as my work presentation. I’ve been preparing for this presentation for a while, and I know it’s important for our project, but I’m hoping we can discuss some flexibility. Is there any way I could adjust the presentation time, or perhaps have someone else cover it, so I can attend the family event? I understand this is short notice, but I’d really appreciate any accommodations you could make. I’m committed to ensuring the success of our project and will do everything I can to stay on track while also attending this important event.
What this sample tests
Practice Dealing with a Difficult Situation with a realistic prompt about You’ve been invited to a family event, but you have a significant work presentation scheduled for the same day. Focus on planning quickly and speaking clearly; you have 60 sec to prepare and 60 sec to respond. Aim for organized ideas, natural vocabulary, and steady pacing.