英语博客：ESL Podcast 756 – Holding Structured and Unstructured Meetings

　　Diego: Okay, why don’t you brief me on what you’ve planned for the meeting tomorrow?
Maya: Sure. At the meeting of the managers tomorrow, we’ll begin with introductions. Since you’re the most senior manager, the job falls to you.
Diego: I don’t think we need to stand on ceremony. Have Alexi do the introductions.
Maya: All right. Then, we’ll follow the agenda and discuss each item of business. I have you down to lead the discussions.
Diego: I don’t think we need the meeting to be so structured. If we follow the agenda point-by-point, we’ll never find out what’s really on the minds of the managers, what issues they think are of paramount¹ importance. I think I’ll open the floor to anyone who wants to raise an issue.
Maya: Wouldn’t that turn into a free for all? I’m not sure we’ll get much accomplished².
Diego: Sometimes, it’s not as important to accomplish something as it is to take the pulse of the group. If we want to know what issues are on the managers’ minds, we first need to let the managers speak freely. Agreed?
Maya: Uh, sure. You’re the boss. Should I also cancel the lunch I’ve ordered so you can make up your minds about food later?
Diego: Absolutely not! The one thing that’s not open for discussion is what I’m eating for lunch.
Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

1 paramount   

a.最重要的，最高权力的

参考例句：

• My paramount object is to save the Union and destroy slavery.我的最高目标是拯救美国，摧毁奴隶制度。
• Nitrogen is of paramount importance to life on earth.氮对地球上的生命至关重要。

2 accomplished   

adj.有才艺的；有造诣的；达到了的

参考例句：

• Thanks to your help,we accomplished the task ahead of schedule.亏得你们帮忙,我们才提前完成了任务。
• Removal of excess heat is accomplished by means of a radiator.通过散热器完成多余热量的排出。