Talking on the phone is one of the most frequent activites in an office. Although there are alternative ways of exchanging information, telephoning is often the most effective and direct form of communicating. If you want to get in touch with a particular person in a company or get information quickly, a phone call is often the easiest way to do it. If you are using a second language, a telephone conversation can be more challenging. Therefore it may be useful to learn some key phrases in English which can help you conduct your conversation successfully.
Introducing
yourself- This is Jennifer Steel.
- Jennifer Steel speaking.
- It's Jennifer Steel.
- My name is Jennifer Steel.
Asking for Mr Roger (Ext. n° 338)
- Is that Mr Roger?
- Could I speak to Mr Roger ?
- Can you put me through to Mr Roger ?
- Can I have extension 338?
- I'd like to speak to Mr Roger.
Replies to Mr Steel from a switchboard operator
- I'll put you through, Mr Steel.
- You're through, Mr Steel, please go ahead. -
- The line's ringing for you, Mr Steel .
Specifying the reason of your call
- I'm calling about our next meeting.
- I'm calling for more details about the meeting.
- I'm calling to (let you know that Mr Steel will not be able to attend the meeting).
Askin
g someone to wait- Could you hold on?
- Will you hold or will you call back later?
- Please hold the line.
- I'm afraid the line's engaged.
- I'm sorry but Mr Roger is not replying.
- Would you like to leave a message?
- Could you get her to call me?
Offering to do something for the caller
- I'll get Mr Roger to call you back.
- I'll check that for you now.
-I'll put you through to someone else.
Asking someone to repeat
- I didn't catch that. Could you just repeat what you said?
- I'm afraid it's a bad line. Could you speak up?
Ending a telephone conversation
- Look forward to hearing from you again soon.