Communicating in English on the phone can be quite difficult. When talking with a person live, you see the gestures and facial expressions of a person, which helps to understand what he said. In addition, gesticulation helps to express one's own thoughts. However, business English for telephone communication is needed if your work is related to cooperation with foreign partners. Today we will look at useful phrases for communicating in English on the phone in a business environment.
How to say hello on the phone in English
- Hello! - Hello!
- This is Peter Sidorov calling. - Pyotr Sidorov is calling you.
- Peter Sidorov here. — This is Pyotr Sidorov.
- It's Peter Sidorov from Fistashka Company here. - This is Petr Sidorov from the Pistachio company.
After introducing ourselves, we politely ask the interlocutor if he can now speak on the phone:
- Is it convenient |kənˈviːnɪənt| for you to talk at the moment? Are you comfortable talking at the moment?
If suddenly the interlocutor is busy, you can ask when it will be convenient for him to give you time using the following phrases:
- Can I call you back? - Can I call you back?
- Could you tell me the best time to call you back, please? - Tell me, please, when is the best time to call you back?
Responding to a greeting
Let's say you're not calling, but you. A person dialed a number, you answered the call, you were greeted, how to answer a greeting:
- It's Pistashka Company. How can I help you? - This is the Pistachio company. How can I help?
- Fistashka, Peter Sidorov speaking. How may I be of help? - Pistachio, Peter Sidorov is on the phone. How can I help?
- Fistashka, Peter Sidorov speaking. Is there anything I can do for you? - - Pistachio, Peter Sidorov is on the phone. How can I help you?
If you are not comfortable talking, you can say:
- Sorry, I'm busy at the moment. Sorry, I'm busy right now.
- Could you call back a bit later, please? — Could you call me back a little later, please?
If the caller has the wrong number:
- What number are you calling? - What number are you calling?
If a person says your number to a question, then someone probably gave him the wrong number, or he wrote it down incorrectly. Then you can say the following:
- Sorry, you must have the wrong number. / Sorry, you've got the wrong number. - Sorry, you must have been given the wrong number
- You must have misdialed. You must have dialed the wrong number.
Specify information about the interlocutor
There are people who believe that their interlocutor has psychic abilities and can easily guess who is calling them, even if he hears the voice for the first time. These phrases will help you find out who is calling:
- Who is calling, please? - Please, introduce yourself.
- May I ask who's calling? May I ask who is calling?
- Can I have your name, please? - May I know your name?
- What company are you calling from? What company are you calling from?
- Could you tell me what it's about? Could you tell me what you are calling about?
- Who do you want to speak to? - Who would you like to talk to?
Please connect with the right person
If the secretary, or not the one you need, picked up the phone, you can use the following phrases:
- Can I speak to Sam? — May I speak to Sam?
- Can I get to Sam, please? — May I contact Sam?
- Could you put me through to Sam, please? Could you connect me to Sam?
- Is Sam there, please? - Tell me, please, is Sam there?
Please wait for the connection with the right person:
- Hold the line, please. - Please stay on the line.
- One moment please. - One minute please.
- I'll put you through to him/her. -I will connect you with him/her.
- One moment, please. I'll see if Sam's available. - One minute please. I'll see if Sam can answer the phone.
Please convey that you called:
If the person you need is not at work or is busy when you call, you can ask that you call in the following way:
- Could you please tell him Peter Sidorov from Fistashka called? “Could you please tell him that Pyotr Sidorov called from Pistashka?”
- Tell him I will call tomorrow, please. Tell him, please, that I will call tomorrow.
- Please, tell him Peter Sidorov phoned and I'll call again at five. - Please tell him that Peter Sidorov called, and I will call him back at five ...
- Could you ask him to call me back, please? Could you ask him to call me back?
- He can reach me at 333-333-333. She can contact me at:
What to say if you didn't hear something
Sometimes we can simply not hear what the interlocutor said, and sometimes the connection is very poor. Let's see what we can say in this case:
- Can you hear me? - You hear me?
- I can't hear you. - I can not hear you.
- It's a bad line. I can barely |ˈbɛːli| hear you! - Bad connection. I can barely hear you!
- Could you please speak up a little? Could you speak a little louder, please?
- Could you speak a bit slower, please? — Could you speak a little slower, please?
- Could you speak a bit louder, please? — Could you speak a little louder, please?
- Sorry, I didn't get that. - I'm sorry, I did not catch you.
- Could you please repeat |rɪˈpiːt| what? - Could you repeat it?
- Come again? - Repeat?
- Could you say it again, please? Sorry, I didn't understand what you said. Could you repeat, please?
- You said his name was Alex, right? You said his name was Alex, right?
- Let me repeat that just to make sure. Let me repeat myself to make sure I understand everything correctly.
- Could you please call me back? I assume we have a bad connection. |kəˈnɛkʃ(ə)n| — Could you call me back? I think we're having communication problems.
How to kill a person and not look like a boor
- There are situations when you need to politely interrupt a person. To do this, we use the following phrases:
- Wait a minute, please. What about...? — Wait a minute, please. What about… ?
- Would you mind if I just say something here? "Do you mind if I say something?"
- Hold on a second. May I add something here, please? - Just a second. Can I add something please?
Goodbye:
- It's been nice talking to you. — It was a pleasure to talk with you.
- I hope I've been informative. - I hope I could be of some help to you.
- Have a nice day. - Have a good day.
- Thanks for calling. goodbye. - Thank you for calling. Goodbye.
- Goodbye, Sam.- Goodbye, Sam.
Now you know the basics of business English. At least how to communicate on the phone at work. We hope you find useful phrases and expressions for yourself. Save the article for yourself and use it as a cheat sheet when you need to call someone.
Hello?
Hello?
Thank you for calling the Smiths Auto Shop. Mary speaking. How can I help you?
Thank you for calling Smith's auto shop. Mary listens. How can I help you?
Doctor's office.
Doctor's office.
How to introduce yourself on the phone
Hey Michael. It's Lisa calling. ( conversational form.)Hi Michael. This is Lisa.
Hello, this is Jane Peters calling.
Hello, this is Jane Peters.
Hi, it's George from the dentist's office here.
Hello, this is George from dentistry.
How to ask to call someone to the phone
Is Fred in? ( conversational form.)Is Fred there?
Is Jackson there, please? ( conversational form.)
May I speak to Jackson?
Can I talk to your sister? ( conversational form.)
Can you call your sister?
May I speak with Mr. Green, please?
May I please speak to Mr Green?
How to ask the caller to wait and call the right person
Just a sec. I "ll get him. ( conversational form.)Just a second. I will call him.
Hang on one second. ( conversational form.)
Just a second.
Please hold and I'll put you through to his office.
Please wait while I connect you to his office.
One moment please.
One minute please.
All of our operators are busy at this time. Please hold for the next available person.
All our operators are busy at the moment. Please wait until someone is free.
How to ask someone for something on the phone
Could you please repeat that?Could you repeat that?
Would you mind spelling that for me?
Please spell it out.
Could you speak up a little please?
Could you speak louder please?
Can you speak a little slower please? My English isn't very strong.
Please speak more slowly. I don't speak English very well.
Can you call me back? I think we have a bad connection.
Can you call back? I think we're having communication problems.
Can you please hold for a minute? I have another call.
Can you wait a minute? I have another call.
How to receive a message from someone
Johnny's not in. Who's this? ( conversational form.)Johnny is gone now. Who is it?
I "m sorry, Lisa" s not in at the moment. Can I ask who's calling?
Sorry, but Lisa is not here right now. May I know who is calling?
I "m afraid he" s stepped out. Would you like to leave a message?
Unfortunately, he got out. Should I give him something?
He "s on lunch right now. Who"s calling please?
He's at lunch now. Tell me, please, who is this calling?
He's busy right now. Can you call again later?
He is busy at the moment. Can you call back later?
I "ll let him know you called.
I'll let him know you called.
I'll make sure she gets the message.
I will definitely pass on the message to her.
How to leave a message for someone
Yes, can you tell him his wife called, please?Yes, can you please tell him that his wife called?
No, that's okay. I'll call back later.
No, everything is okay. I'll call back later.
thanks; could you ask him to call James when he gets in?
Thanks, can you ask him to call James when he comes?
Do you have a pen handy? I don't think he has my number.
Do you have a pen handy? I don't think he knows my number.
thanks. My number is 555-6789, extension 14.
Thank you. My number is 555-6789, extension 14.
How to confirm or ask again something
Okay, I've got it all down.Okay, I wrote everything down.
Let me repeat that just to make sure.
Let me repeat everything to check if everything is correct.
Did you say 123 Charles St.?
Did you say 123 Charles Street?
You said your name was Ted, right?
You said your name is Ted, right?
I'll make sure he gets the message.
I will definitely pass on what you said to him.
Examples of autoresponder entries
Hello. You"ve reached 222-6789. Please leave a detailed message after the beep. Thank you.Hello. You called 222-6789. Please leave a detailed message after the beep. Thank you.
Hey, this is Elizabeth. I "m sorry I"m not available to take your call at this time. Leave me a message and I "ll get back to you as soon as I can.
Hello, this is Elizabeth. I'm sorry, but I can't take your call right now. Leave your message and I will contact you as soon as I can.
Examples of messages left on the answering machine
Hey Andrew. It's Paul. Call me! ( conversational form.)Hello Andrew. This is Paul. Call me!
Hello, this is Richard calling for Stephen. Could you please return my call as soon as possible? My number is 123-4567. thank you.
Hello, this is Richard. I need to talk to Stephen. Can you call back as soon as possible? My number is 123-4567. Thank you.
How to end a phone conversation
Well, I guess I better get going. Talk to you soon. ( conversational form.)Well, I guess I'll go. See you later.
Thanks for calling. Bye for now.
Thank you for calling. Goodbye.
I have to let you go now.
I have to go.
I'm afraid that's my other line.
Unfortunately, they call me on the other line.
I "ll talk to you again soon. Bye.
We'll talk more soon. Bye.
Business telephone conversation in English is one of the most difficult tasks that employees of international companies have to perform. The point here is the language barrier, and the fear of not understanding the interlocutor. Therefore, we will tell you what phrases can be used in a telephone conversation in English in different cases, and give general advice on how to properly communicate on the phone with native speakers in order to understand and be understood.
We have written a simple travel phrasebook that contains dialogues, phrases and a dictionary on 25 essential topics. Go on a journey with the main character and improve your English. You can download the book for free at.
Useful phrases for talking on the phone Greetings
The theater begins with a hanger, and a telephone conversation in English begins with a greeting. In addition to the usual Good morning/afternoon/evening, you need to introduce yourself. According to the rules of etiquette, you need to immediately tell the interlocutor who is bothering him. In this case, it is advisable to give not only your full name, but also the company that you represent.
Welcome phrases in English on the phone:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| This is Ostap Bender calling. | This Ostap Bender worries. |
| It's Ostap Bender here. | This is Ostap Bender. |
| It's Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” here. | |
| This is Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs”. | This is Ostap Bender from Horns and Hooves. |
And after the person greets you, be sure to ask a simple but very important question:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Is it convenient for you to talk at the moment? | Are you comfortable talking now? |
If the person is busy, immediately ask when you can talk to him. Consider the following phrases:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Can I call you back? | Can I call you back? |
| I'll call back later. | I'll call back later. |
| Could you tell me when the best time to call is? | Can you please tell me when is the best time to call you back? |
It may also happen that you dial the wrong number. In this case, you can use the following phrases:
How to respond to a greeting
And now imagine the opposite situation - they called you and introduced themselves. How to answer the interlocutor correctly?
First, be sure to say hello in the usual words Good morning/afternoon/evening, then, depending on your position and the specifics of cooperation with foreign partners and clients, you can use the following phrases to talk on the phone in English:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Horns and Hoofs. How can I help you? | "Horns and hooves". How can I help you? |
| Thank you for calling “Horns and hoofs”. Ostap Bender speaking. How can I help you? | Thank you for calling Horns and Hooves. Ostap Bender on the phone. How can I help you? |
| “Horns and hoofs”, Ostap Bender speaking. How may I be of help? | "Horns and Hooves", Ostap Bender on the phone. How can I help you? |
| “Horns and hoofs”, Ostap Bender speaking. Is there anything I can do for you? | "Horns and Hooves", Ostap Bender on the phone. Can I help you? |
Are you busy at the moment? Politely ask the person to call you back later.
Did the person have the wrong number? Tell him about it with one of the following phrases.
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| What number are you calling? | What number are you calling? |
| What number did you dial? | What number did you dial? |
| I'm sorry, but we don't have Mr. Koreiko here. | Unfortunately, Mr. Koreiko does not work for us / we do not have an employee with that last name. |
| Sorry, you must have the wrong number. | Sorry, you must have the wrong number. |
| Sorry, you've got the wrong number. | I'm sorry, you have the wrong number. |
| You must have misdialed. | You must have dialed the wrong number. |
There are situations when a person did not make a mistake with the number, but his call is unpleasant for you, for example, if he obsessively offers you unnecessary goods or services. How to politely answer an unwanted call?
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I'm sorry, I'm not interested. | Unfortunately, I'm not interested. |
| Sorry, I'm busy at the moment. | I'm sorry, I'm busy right now. |
| We have no interest in your services. | We are not interested in your services. |
| Please, accept that I do not want any more telephone calls. | Please note that I do not want you to call me. |
How to check caller information
Let's say you get a call, but you don't introduce yourself. In this case, you need to avoid pauses in the conversation and immediately clarify who is calling and for what purpose. In this situation, use the following phrases:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Who is calling, please? | Please, introduce yourself. |
| Could I ask who's calling? | May I know who is calling? |
| May I ask who's calling? | May I ask who is calling? |
| Can I take your name, please? | May I know your name please? |
| Where are you calling from? | Where are you calling from? |
| Could you tell me what it's about? | Could you tell me the purpose of the call? |
| Who are you calling? | Who are you calling? |
| Who do you want to speak to? | Who would you like to talk to? |
| The name of the person you are calling, please? | Please state the name of the person you are calling. |
| What company are you calling from? | What company are you calling from? |
How to ask to be connected to the right person
You call the firm, but you get to the secretary or to the general phone of a large department. In this case, you need to ask the employee to call the person you need to the phone. You can also ask to be connected to the internal phone of a specific employee. Use these phrases:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Can I speak to Mr. Koreiko? | May I speak to Mr. Koreiko? |
| Can I get Mr. Koreiko, please? | |
| May I speak with Mr. Koreiko, please? | May I speak to Mr. Koreiko, please? |
| Could I speak to Mr. Koreiko, please? | May I speak to Mr. Koreiko, please? |
| I'd like to speak to Mr. Koreako, please. | I'd like to speak to Mr. Koreiko, please. |
| Is Mr. Koreiko there, please? | Can you please tell me if Mr. Koreiko is there? |
| Could you put me through to Mr. Koreiko, please? | Could you connect me to Mr. Koreiko, please? |
| Could I have extension number 635? | Could you connect me to number 635? |
How to ask to wait for a connection with the right person
And again the opposite situation - they call your company, and you understand that the interlocutor needs another employee. In this case, you need to ask the person not to hang up and wait for the connection. In a telephone conversation in English, depending on the specifics of your activity, the following phrases are used:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I "ll put him on. | I will connect you with him. |
| I'll put you through. | I will connect you. |
| Hold the line, please. | Please stay on the line. |
| One moment please. | One minute please. |
| Please hold and I'll put you through to his office. | Please wait and I will connect you to his office. |
| One moment, please. I'll see if Mr. Koreiko is available. | One minute please. I'll see if Mr. Koreiko can answer the phone. |
| Do you know what extension he"s on? | Do you know what line he is on (internal phone)? |
What to do if the connection is bad
Interference on the line is the main phobia of any person who needs to conduct a telephone conversation in English. However, don't be discouraged, a few simple phrases will help you deal with this situation. These phrases will help you out in case of technical problems:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Can you hear me? | You hear me? |
| I can't hear you. | I can not hear you. |
| It's a bad line. | Bad connection. |
| This line is so poor. | Very bad connection. |
| Could you please speak up a little? | Could you speak a little louder, please? |
| Could you please speak a little slower? My English isn't very strong. | Could you speak a little slower, please. I don't speak English very well. |
| Could you speak a bit louder, please? | Could you speak a little louder, please? |
| Sorry, I didn't quite understand that. | Sorry, I didn't quite understand what you told me. |
| Sorry, I didn't catch you. | I'm sorry, I did not catch you. |
| Could you please repeat that? | Could you repeat that? |
| I'm sorry, I didn't get that. Could you say it again, please? | Sorry, I didn't understand what you said. Could you repeat, please? |
| Could you repeat your last phrase, please? | Could you repeat your last sentence, please? |
| I'm sorry, I don't understand. Could you repeat that, please? | Sorry, I can't understand. Could you repeat this one more time, please? |
| Could you repeat, please, what did you say? | Could you repeat what you said? |
| Did you say Saturday 9 a.m.? | Did you say Saturday 9am? |
| You said his name was Ostap, right? | You said his name is Ostap, right? |
| Would you mind spelling that for me? | Please spell it out. / Would you mind spelling this? |
| How do you spell that? | Please spell it out. |
| Could you please call me back? I think we have a bad connection. | Could you call me back? I think we're having communication problems. |
| Let me read this back to you. | Let me read what I wrote down from your words (to make sure it's correct). |
| Let me repeat that just to make sure. | Let me repeat to make sure I understand everything correctly. |
Sometimes not a bad connection, but a call on another line prevents you from talking. If a call on the second line is more important than a call on the first, you can apologize to the interlocutor and ask him to enter into your position. Use these phrases:
How to make an appointment
If you are calling a person to make an appointment with them, use the phrase templates below. They sound polite and will help you quickly negotiate with the interlocutor. Use the following phrases to make an appointment:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I'd like to arrange an appointment. | I would like to arrange a meeting. |
| When is it convenient for you? | When is it convenient for you? |
| Would next Friday be okay? | Is next Friday convenient for you? |
| I could make it after five. | I can meet you after five o'clock. |
| I wonder if you would mind if I visited your office next week? | I would like to know if you mind if I visit your office next week? |
| Shall we say 5:20 next Friday, in “Horns and hoofs’s” office? | So at 5:20 Friday at the Horns and Hooves office? |
How to politely interrupt a person
During a telephone conversation with a foreign partner or client, it is better not to interrupt the interlocutor, but there are times when this is necessary. You can do this politely with the help of such phrases:
And you will find even more similar phrases in the article “How to masterfully interrupt an interlocutor? Dealing with interruptions".
How to ask to tell the person that you called
Have you called your foreign partners, but the person you need is not in place? Ask him to tell him about your call and do not forget to leave your contact details. Politely ask for a call in the following ways:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Could you please tell him Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” called? | Could you please tell him that Ostap Bender from "Horns and Hooves" called? |
| Could you ask him to call Ostap Bender from “Horns and hoofs” when he gets in? | Could you tell him to call Ostap Bender from Horn and Hoof when he arrives? |
| Tell him I will call tomorrow, please. | Please tell him that I will call tomorrow. |
| Please, tell him Ostap Bender phoned and I'll call again at half past five. | Please tell him that Ostap Bender called. I'll call back at 5:30 pm. |
| Do you have a pen handy? I don't think he has my number. | Do you have a pen handy? I don't think he has my number. |
| Thanks! My number is 777-5555, extension 13. | Thank you! My number is 777-5555, extension 13. |
| Could you ask him to call me back? | Could you ask him to call me back? |
| He can reach me at 777-5555. | He can contact me at 777-5555. |
If it's more convenient for you to call the person back yourself, say the following:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| When will he be in? | When will he be there? |
| That's okay. I'll call back later. | Everything is fine. I'll call back later. |
How to take a message to someone
Did you get a call and were asked to hand over the phone to a colleague, but he is not in place or is he busy? In this case, you should politely inform that the person cannot answer the phone and offer to leave a message. In this case, do not forget to specify the name of the caller, as well as his contact phone number. Learn these phrases:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| I "ll let him know you called. | I will tell him that you called. |
| Can I take your number? | May I know your phone number? |
| What is your number? | What's your phone number? |
| Can I take your message? | May I receive your message? |
| Is there any message? | Anything to give him? |
| I'll pass on your message. | I will pass on your message to him. |
| I'm afraid he's out. Would you like to leave a message? | I'm afraid he's gone. Would you like to leave a message? |
| I "m sorry, Ostap" s not in at the moment. Can I ask who's calling? | Unfortunately, Ostap is not there. May I know who is calling? |
| He "s on meeting right now. Who"s calling please? | He's in a meeting right now. Can you please tell me who is calling? |
| He's busy right now. Could you please call again later? | At the moment he is busy. Could you call back later? |
| I'm sorry, he's not available at the moment. | Unfortunately, he can't answer the phone right now. |
| I'm sorry, he is not in the office at the moment. | Unfortunately, he is not in the office right now. |
| I'm sorry, he's on another call. | Unfortunately, he now speaks on a different line. |
| Not'll be back in 20 minutes. | He will be back in 20 minutes. |
| Can I take a message or shall I ask him to call you back? | Can I send him a message or ask him to call you back? |
| What message would you like to leave? | What would you like to convey to him? |
| I'll make sure he gets the message. | I will definitely pass on your message to him. |
You can also ask the other person to call you back later by using these phone phrases in English:
How to leave a message on the answering machine
If you only got through to the answering machine, do not rush to hang up. Leave a message so that the person can call you back as soon as they are free. You can leave a simple message like this:
What message to write for your answering machine
Do not neglect the auto answer function in your own phone, because this option will allow you not to miss any important calls. Take 5 minutes and record a simple text for the caller. The text might look like this.
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| Hello, this is Ostap Bender. I "m sorry I"m not available to take your call at this time. Please, leave me a message and I"ll get back to you as soon as I can. | Hello, this is Ostap Bender. I'm sorry, but I can't take your call right now. Please leave me a message and I will call you back as soon as I can. |
| Thank you for calling. There's no one here to take your call at the moment. Please, leave the message after the tone, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. | Thank you for calling. There is no one near the phone to answer your call. Please leave a message after the beep and I will call you back as soon as I can. |
| Thank you for calling “Horns and hoofs’s” office. Our hours are 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday-Sunday. Please, call back during these hours, or leave the message after the tone. | Thank you for contacting the Horns and Hooves office. We work from 9 am to 9 pm from Monday to Sunday. Please call us during business hours or leave a message after the beep. |
Parting
Have you successfully talked on the phone, resolved all the issues? Then the time has come to say goodbye, and this must also be done correctly: without sentimentality and politely. You can say goodbye to the interlocutor like this:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| It's been nice to talk to you. | It was a pleasure to talk with you. |
| I hope to have been of help to you. | I hope I could help you. |
| Have a nice day. | All the best. |
| Thanks for calling. Bye for now. | Thanks for your call. Goodbye. |
| Thanks for calling. goodbye. | Thank you for calling. Goodbye. |
| Bye, Mr. Koreiko. | Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko. |
| Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko. | Goodbye, Mr. Koreiko. |
And to see and hear what a telephone conversation in English looks like in practice, we recommend watching the following video:
Successful telephone conversation in English: general tips
1. Write a conversation plan ahead of time
If you are going to call your partner or client abroad, your task is simplified, because you can think in advance what you will talk about, what words and phrases to use. Do not be too lazy to write a short plan of your conversation on paper, so you will kill not even two, but three birds with one stone: study the phrases while writing them, make the most accurate and complete plan of the conversation and save your nerves, because during the conversation you will know what to say and when.
2. Try rehearsing the dialogue
To sound confident, try saying the dialogue a few times in front of a mirror or on the phone with a friend. This way you will remember the phrases faster, and during the conversation you will not have to check your plan.
And if you are learning a language online, try to study with your teacher without a camera. This will be a complete imitation of a telephone conversation. Try acting out a dialogue with the teacher using your plan. If you practice this way at least a few times, then when talking on the phone it will be easier for you to understand the person on the other end of the line.
3. Don't worry
Excitement affects understanding in the same way as poor communication: if you listen to interference (or an inner voice that says that you will not understand anything), they will interfere with you, and if you do not pay attention to them, you will be able to understand the interlocutor . The more relaxed you are about a telephone conversation in English, the easier it will be for you and the person on the other end of the line.
4. Be formal
The formal style of communication is different from the usual conversational. We communicate politely with business partners, avoid slang, word abbreviations, etc. You can read more about the features of the formal style of English.
5. Be as polite as possible
The concept of "politeness" in our country and abroad is quite different. Pay attention to the phrase templates we have proposed: in almost every one of them there is a “Could you please” construction, in every sentence there is the word “please”. Moreover, in translation into Russian, the word “please” does not even always fit logically into the phrase. It sounds like obsessive politeness to us. In sentences in English, be sure to use words such as “please” and “thank you”, otherwise you may seem rude to the interlocutor.
6. Keep an electronic dictionary handy
Are you unable to understand a certain word that plays an important role in your partner's speech? Ask the interlocutor to spell this word and look up its meaning in the dictionary. It is impossible to learn all the words from the English dictionary, so your partner will normally react to the request to repeat the word. So before every business conversation on the phone in English, turn on the computer and open one of the electronic dictionaries.
7. Ask to repeat what you don't understand.
Remember, even when we have a telephone conversation in Russian, sometimes we don’t understand the interlocutor or we can’t hear some words due to poor communication. In this case, without a shadow of embarrassment, we ask the interlocutor to repeat what was said. What prevents us from doing the same when talking on the phone in English? Your partner or client understands that you are speaking a non-native language, so they will calmly accept a request to repeat a phrase.
8. Develop Your Listening Skill
The more often you listen to foreign speech, the faster you will get used to it and begin to understand (if you also study grammar and new words at the same time). Therefore, listen to podcasts and audio books, watch videos and news in English. And you can check your understanding of the language by ear and at the same time listen to sample dialogues on the phone in English on the Simple English website. Choose one of the dialogues, turn on the audio recording and try to insert the missing words into the exercise under dictation. And also read our articles "" and "".
9. Work on pronunciation and intonation
Take care not only of yourself, but also of your interlocutor. Try to speak clearly, take your time, pronounce words and sounds correctly. Fluent speech is good in a normal conversation, but not in a dialogue on the phone with business partners. It will be ideal if you try to adjust to the pace of your interlocutor’s speech, in which case you will be “on the same wavelength” with him. If you know that your pronunciation is not yet perfect and you may not be understood, speak at an average pace. A measured pace of speech will allow your interlocutor to understand you and give your words a confident sound. Be sure to read the article "". Keep an eye on your intonation: speak confidently, but in a calm, friendly tone.
10. Learn useful phrases for communication
Those phrases that we presented in the article are excellent "blanks" for your speech. It is best to learn them by heart, so that when you call, do not pick up words, but speak in patterns you already know.
11. Read examples of dialogues in English on the phone
To see how the phrases you have learned "work" in a natural conversation, study examples of telephone conversations, for example, on the official website of the BBC company. On the pages of the resource, you will see several examples of telephone conversations on various topics and pass a test for knowledge of "telephone" vocabulary.
12. Study professional vocabulary
To leave a positive impression of yourself after the conversation, study not only the phrases we have presented, but also the professional vocabulary of your field of activity. Understanding between you and the interlocutor will arise when you speak the same language both literally and figuratively.
Complete list of phrases for download
We have compiled a document for you that will make it easier for you to conduct a dialogue over the phone. You can download it from the link below.
(*.pdf, 292 Kb)
Now you know how to successfully conduct a telephone conversation in English. Engage in listening, learn the phrases we have proposed in English for a telephone conversation and improve your pronunciation, then the interlocutor will understand you, and you will understand him. We wish you successful telephone negotiations!
And if you want to thoroughly study business English with a competent teacher, we suggest studying in. Our teachers will help you master the business style of communicating in English, teach you to understand the speech of the interlocutor and speak so that you are understood.
Hello? Is that Gloria?
Yes! Hello? Who's speaking?
It's Nick. Nick Edmonds.
Oh, hi, Nick! I didn't recognize your voice. How are you?
I'm OK, thanks, Gloria. Is Cathy in?
Yes, she must be in her room. Could you hang on, please? I'll just get her.
good afternoon. Tower Investment Bank. May I help you?
Hi. I would like to talk to Mr. Clinton from the accounting department, please.
May I ask you who is calling?
My name is Bruno Ponti. I'm calling from an advertising agency.
Thank you Mr. Ponty. Just a moment, please. Let me check if Mr. Clinton is in his office.
Thank you for waiting. I'm sorry but Mr. Clinton isn't available at the moment. Would you like to leave a message or shall I ask him to call you back? Does he have your number?
I believe he does. But I can give it to you, just in case.
All right. Go ahead, please.
My number is 046 78345.
OK. And would you mind repeating your name?
sure. Bruno Ponty. I can spell it: B-R-U-N-O P-O-N-T-I.
Thank you Mr. Ponty. I'll ask Mr. Clinton to call you back as soon as possible today.
Thanks a lot. Bye.
- Jordan Furniture. Mandy is speaking. Can I help you?
good morning. I'm calling on behalf of Mr. Franks from London Design Studio. Could I speak to someone who deals with reconstruction works?
Sorry, I didn't catch that. Could you speak up, please?
I'd like to talk to your chief engineer, please.
Certainly, sir. Hold on a moment. I'll put you through.
hallo. Can I speak to Estella, please?
speaking. Who's calling?
Oh hi, Estella. This is Sally. I couldn't get you through yesterday. The line was engaged. Is everything OK with you?
Hello Sally. I was just thinking about you. Yes, we're fine. Don't worry.
Hi. Is Edward home?
no. He has just popped out to the bank.
OK. When will he be back?
He shouldn't be long, I hope.
Could you ask him to ring me back, please?
sure. Who should I say phoned?
It's Sam, from the golf club.
Has Edward got your number?
Can I speak to Helen?
mmm. Who is this?
It's Anna speaking. Are you her brother?
No, Anna. I am afraid you've dialed the wrong number.
Oh, I'm sorry!
Translation
Hello? Is this Gloria?
Yes! Hello! Who is speaking?
This is Nick. Nick Edmonds.
Okay, thanks, Gloria. Is Katie at home?
Yes, she should be in her room. Wait a minute, please. I will call her.
Okay. Thanks.
Good afternoon. Tower Investment Bank. Can I help you with something?
Hello. I'd like to speak to Mr. Clinton in the accounting department, please.
May I know who is calling?
Thank you Mr Ponti. Just a minute please. I'll check if Mr. Clinton is there.
Of course.
Thank you for waiting. I'm sorry, but Mr. Clinton is currently unable to answer the phone. Will you leave a message for him, or ask him to call you back? Does he have your phone number?
I think yes. But I can leave you one more time, just in case.
Good. Speak up.
My number is 046 78345.
OK. And please repeat your name.
Of course. Bruno Ponti. I will spell: B-R-U-N-O P-O-N-T-I.
Thank you Mr Ponti. I will ask Mr. Clinton to call you back as soon as possible today.
Thanks a lot. Goodbye.
- Jordan Furniture. Mandy is on the phone. Can I help you?
Good morning. I'm calling on behalf of Mr. Franks of London Design Studio. Can I speak to whoever does the renovations?
Sorry, I didn't hear. Would you speak louder, please?
I'd like to speak to the chief engineer.
Of course, sir. Just a minute please. I will connect you.
Thank you.
Hello. May I speak to Estella?
I'm listening. Who is calling?
Oh, hi, Estella. This is Sally. I couldn't get through to you yesterday. The line was busy. Are you all right?
Hey Sally. I was just thinking about you. Everything is fine with us. Don't worry.
Hello? Edward at home?
No. He just went to the bank.
Good. And when will he return?
For obvious reasons, telephone conversations in a foreign language present a certain difficulty. Sometimes in our native language we may not hear some words, phrases, intonations. Maybe this is because we do not see the gestures of people and do not see the expressions of their beautiful and not very faces, we cannot recognize the body language (body language). Talking on the phone is like listening to a classroom audio recording.
We must try to take everything into account. I remember how long, long ago I was negotiating by phone, and my first steps in this direction were rather disastrous. Well, they learn from mistakes.
Hints. If you did start talking on the phone. In a foreign language.
Above you can listen to the debriefing I did last night.
1. Speak slowly, clearly and distinctly. Take your time. Due to the fact that you are nervous, you can not understand much from the conversation of the interlocutor, and your speech will begin to blur. Pay attention to numbers and badly pronounced letters. Feel free to ask again. You can try to write down what you want to say before the conversation. I did that sometimes.
2. Do not pretend that you understand everything and be afraid to interrupt the interlocutor. Believe me: it is not profitable for either side to miss important points and badly agree on something. To avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, try not to get annoyed.
3. Practice with a friend. Ask your foreign friend or friends who know the language to practice with you. Set aside some time in the evening and talk for 15 minutes. Dialogues can be of any kind. And ordinary, and business, and on a special topic. If there is no telephone, then you can turn the chairs back to each other. In fact, we lip-read a lot, so realizing that you can't see a person can be a healthy experiment.
4. Learn Spelling and the alphabet! It's funny, not funny, when a 10th grader can't pronounce the letter "U" correctly. It depends on whether a person will understand what you want to tell him in detail, for example, mail, or not.
5. Use words. And in general, more modality, more politeness.
6. Try to practice numbers and dates. After all, the clearer the phone number sounds, the less you have to call back again.
Words and expressions:
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Answering the phone. |
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Introduce yourself. |
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talk to someone |
|
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Connecting… |
|
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Questions |
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Sending a message. |
|
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Leaving a message. |
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Confirming information. |
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Listening to the answering machine |
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Finishing the dialogue |
|
answer- reply
answering machine- answering machine
busy signal- busy signal on the phone
call- call
caller- who is calling
call back/phone back- call back
call display- the one who is displayed when calling (number or face)
cell phone- mobile phone
dial- dial by buttons
hang up- hang up the phone
pick up- answer the phone
ring- call
receiver- receiver
DIALOGUE (We order pizza)
|
Hostess: |
hello |
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customer: |
Hi. I'd like to order a pizza please. |
|
Hostess: |
OK. I'll have to transfer your call to our take-out department. One moment please |
|
Recorded Message: |
Thank you for calling Pizza Potenza. All of our operators are busy at the moment. Please hold for the next available person. |
|
Take-out Clerk: |
Thank you for waiting. Dmitry speaking. Is this for take-out or delivery? |
|
customer: |
delivery please. |
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Take-out Clerk: |
Can I have your name and address please? |
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customer: |
My name is… |
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Take-out Clerk: |
Sorry, it's really busy in here. Could you speak up a little please? |
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customer: |
Oh sure. This is Alice Jones. My address is Apple Alley, building 2. |
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Take-out Clerk: |
Is that an apartment or a house? |
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customer: |
It's an apartment. number 33. |
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Take-out Clerk: |
OK. And what would you like to order today? |
|
customer: |
I'd like a large pizza with mushrooms, olives and extra cheese. |
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Take-out Clerk: |
I'm sorry, my English isn't very strong .Could you slow down a little please?` |
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customer: |
no problem. That's a large pizza. With olives and mushrooms. |
|
Take-out Clerk: |
OK. I've got it all down. |
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customer: |
Great. And how long will that be? |
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Take-out Clerk: |
It will be about thirty minutes, Miss. |
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customer: |
And how much will it cost? |
|
Take-out Clerk: |
33 dollars |
|
customer: |
thank you. Bye for now. |
|
Take-out Clerk: |
OK. Thanks for calling. Bye. |
Worder pizza (ordering pizza). By the way, how to order, see the previous post.
Duty: Pizza Potenza. How can I help?
Buyer: I would like to order a pizza, please.
Duty: No problem, I will transfer your call to the Point of Delivery of Orders (Pickup). A moment please.
Message: Thank you for calling Pizza Potenza. All operators are busy now. Please stay connected.
Delivery officer: Thank you for waiting, Dimitri is with you. Are you pickup or delivery?
Buyer: delivery please
Delivery officer: May I have your name and address?
Buyer: My name is…
Duty: Something is somehow very noisy here, could you speak louder?
Buyer: Yes, of course, my name is Alice Jones. My Address: Apple alley, house 2.
Duty: Is it an apartment or a house?
Buyer: Apartment number 33.
Duty: What do you want to order?
Buyer: Would like a huge Italian pizza with cheese. And mushrooms and olives.
Duty: Sorry, my English is not that good, can you slow down?
Buyer: With Mushrooms. And olives. Big
Duty: Okay, I wrote it down.
Buyer: How long should I wait?
Duty: within 30 minutes
Buyer: What is the price?
Duty: 33 dollars
Buyer: okay, I will be waiting
Duty: Thank you for your order, bye
Buyer: Goodbye.
Have a great day
