Here are some common phrases used in business English conversations over the telephone:
Making the Call:
Hello, this is [Your Name] from [Your Company].Good morning/afternoon, may I speak with [Person's Name] please?
Hi, I'm calling regarding [specific topic or reason].
I would like to schedule a meeting/appointment with [Person's Name].
Identifying Yourself:
This is [Your Name] calling from [Your Company].
I'm [Your Name], and I work at [Your Company].
I'm calling on behalf of [Your Company].
Requesting to Speak with Someone:
Could I please speak to [Person's Name]?
Is [Person's Name] available?
May I have a word with [Person's Name], please?
Leaving a Message:
Could you please let [Person's Name] know that I called?
Can you take a message for [Person's Name]?
Please tell [Person's Name] that I will call back later.
Taking a Message:
I'm sorry, [Person's Name] is currently unavailable. May I take a message?
Sure, I can pass a long a message. What would you like me to tell [Person's Name]?
Could you please provide your name, contact details, and the purpose of your call?
Transferring the Call:
One moment, please. I'll transfer you to [Person's Name].
Let me connect you with the appropriate department/person.
I'll put you through to [Person's Name] right away.
Confirming Information:
Just to confirm, you're calling about [specific topic], correct?
Can you please verify your contact information?
Could you repeat your name/phone number, please?
Holding the Line:
Please hold for a moment while I check that information.
I apologize for the wait. I'll be with you shortly.
Thank you for holding. I appreciate your patience.
Ending the Call:
Thank you for your time/assistance.
It was nice speaking with you.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Practice
Situation 1:
You call a company and want to speak with John Smith.
Your opening line: _________________
Request to speak with John Smith: _________________
Situation 2:
You are calling a potential client to discuss a business proposal.
Your opening line: _____
____________
State the reason for your call: _________________
Request to schedule a meeting: _________________
Situation 3:
You call a colleague, but they are unavailable. Leave a message.
Request to leave a message: _________________
Ask the person to relay the message: _________________
Situation 4:
You are speaking with a receptionist who needs to transfer your call.
Acknowledge the need to transfer the call: _________________
Express your willingness to wait: _________________
Situation 5:
You want to confirm the purpose of the caller's inquiry.
Request for confirmation: _________________
Situation 6:
After getting the information, you need a moment to check something.
Request to put the caller on hold: _________________
Situation 7:
You are concluding the conversation and expressing gratitude.
Express gratitude: _________________
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