TELEPHONE CALLS - Common English phrases 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.

Answering the phone

Good morning / afternoon Mr Jenkins. 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?