Speaking on the Phone "English For SMK"

Speaking on the Phone

For non-native English speakers, communicating via telephone can be a very difficult task. There are some common phrases and words that are used. There are some common basic words and phrases that are commonly used to conduct a telephone conversation.

Common Telephone Phrases for the Person Make The Phone Call (Caller)

Greeting

§  Hi - Hello - Hello, how are you?

§  good morning - good afternoon -good evening

§  How’s life?

Introductions

§  This is .... (give your name)

§  This is ....( give your name, from (state place, or company).

§  Hello this ...(give your name)

Requesting Someone

§  Can I please speak to .... (give the person's name)

§  I would like to speak to...(give the person's name)

§  Is ....(give the person's name) available.

§  Is it possible to speak to ....(give the person's name).

§  I need to speak to ....(give the person's name)

When Party (the person you are trying to call) is Unavailable

§  Do you know when he/she will return to the office/home?

§  I will call back latter/in an hour/tomorrow.

§  May I leave a message, please?

§  Do you know when he/she will be available?

§  Please tell him .....(give your name) called, and I will call latter/call again.

§  Please have him/she call me back.

§  Can I leave my telephone number? My phone number is.....(give your number)?

§  Please have him/her contact at ......(state a place or a phone number).

§  Where/How can I reach him/her?

§  What is her/his mobile phone number/Cell/Cellular phone number?

Faxes

§  May I send you a fax?

§  What is your fax number?

§  Did you receive my fax?

§  I send a fax to..... (give person's name), did he.she receive it?

Asking for Information

Other Useful Telephone Phrases/Words

§  Who am I speaking to?

§  Who is calling?

§  The number is busy.

§  My I hold on the line.

§  I sorry can't hear you.

§  I sorry I can't understand you.

§  Please speak slowly, I am having a difficult time understanding you.

§  The line was disconnected.

§  Please connect me to ....(give the name or the person, or the extensions)