# Formal mobile data plan negotiation

**Language:** Dutch  
**CEFR Level:** B1  

> Master formal Dutch business negotiations by listening to Ruben and Femke's conversation about securing mobile data services from a telecom provider. It may feel challenging at first, but by the end of this course you will be able to fully understand and participate.

**Setting:** Meeting at a corporate telecommunications office in Antwerp, Ruben represents a historical heritage foundation seeking business mobile connectivity while Femke acts as the key account manager for the telecom provider. Over a series of scheduled negotiation meetings, they discuss contract terms, network coverage, and volume data pricing.

## Lessons

### 1. Starting a business meeting

Femke welcomes Ruben to the office, offers him coffee, and asks to see the location map he brought.

### 2. Describing location signal strength

Ruben presents the six mill sites on the map, and Femke shares the technical team's report on weak signal coverage.

### 3. Discussing installation options

Ruben explains his phone experience at the remote mill, and Femke suggests installing an external antenna on the nearby barn.

### 4. Explaining basic data needs

Ruben raises budget concerns for the foundation, and Femke asks about the low data transmission of the weather station.

### 5. Detailing equipment specifications

Ruben lists the sensors and motion-activated security cameras, allowing Femke to estimate their monthly data usage.

### 6. Comparing standard subscription plans

Femke presents standard individual SIM card subscriptions, and Ruben calculates the total monthly cost for all mills.

### 7. Evaluating shared data plans

Femke proposes a cheaper shared data bundle, but Ruben points out that the required three-year contract length poses a problem.

### 8. Explaining contract constraints

Ruben explains that funding depends on two-year government grants, leading Femke to adjust the contract terms.

### 9. Calculating two-year total costs

Femke offers a two-year contract rate, and she helps Ruben calculate the total cost over the full period.

### 10. Handling data overage options

Ruben inquires about data usage spikes during storms, and Femke explains automatic top-up options with budget caps.

### 11. Discussing service level agreements

Ruben stresses the safety risks of connection loss during storms, prompting Femke to outline standard and business support response times.

### 12. Negotiating contract discounts

Ruben expresses concern over extra fees, so Femke offers to include faster support and discount the antenna installation.

### 13. Requesting a written proposal

Ruben finds the new offer reasonable and asks Femke to send a formal written proposal before the board meeting.

### 14. Scheduling a follow-up call

Ruben agrees to review the proposal with his board and sets a time for a follow-up phone call with Femke.