These are some of the most common telephone phrases used when answering a business call. You should learn them until you are comfortable using them.
Telephone calls - Common English phrases. |
Answering the phone:- |
| Good morning/afternoon XYZ Ltd. How can I help you? |
Connecting a caller:- |
| I'll put you through now. |
| One moment please. |
Explaining there's a problem:- |
| I'm sorry, but the line's engaged at the moment. |
| I'm sorry. There's no reply. |
I'm sorry, but he/she's out of the office at the moment. |
| I'm afraid he/she's on the other line at the moment. |
Offering help:- |
| Would you like to hold? |
| Is there anyone else who could help you? |
| Can I take a message? |
| Maybe I can help you? |
Offer a return call:- |
Perhaps he/she can call you back? |
Could he/she call you back? |
Offering to take a message:- |
Can I take a message for him/her? |
Would you like to leave a message? |
Asking for the caller's name and number:- |
| Could I have your name and number, please? |
| Could you give me your name and number, please? |
Checking the information:- |
Could you spell that, please? |
Can I just check that again, please? |
| Could you repeat that, please? |
Don't forget you can prepare yourself before making a call.