If you're like most English learners, you
find it difficult to make phone calls in English. But if you're treling
abroad or working in a foreign trading company, using English on the phone is
essential. So how do you conquer this last obstacle to fluency? Prepare
yourself for any telephone situation with the following phrases and techniques.
Introductions
Start any telephone conversation by
introducing yourself: "Hello, this is Peter Jones. If you answer the phone
and the caller fails to identify himself, you can say: "May I ask who's
calling, please?"
Asking for someone / Making a request
If you're calling to talk to a specific
person, then phrase your request as a polite question, e.g. "May I speak
to Rachel Smith, please?" When you he an extension number but no name
you can say: "Could I he extension number 635?" But if you're
calling with a specific purpose, then a statement works best: "I’m calling
to make a reservation."
Holding and transferring
"Please hold" is telephone
language for "just a moment". When you need to be transferred
(connected) to another extension you'll often hear: "Connecting your
call..." or "Please hold, I'll transfer you.".” If you call a
business at a busy time, you might hear only a brief, "Hello, please
hold!" before the operator switches over to another line.
Leing a message
When the person you're calling isn't
ailable, be prepared to lee a message. You might use voicemail (a digital
voice recording system) or an answering machine (a machine that records
messages onto a tape). If you're talking to an operator, they'll ask:
"Would you like to lee a message?" Or you can say, "May I
lee a message?" Be sure to lee your phone number if you want the
person to return your call. This is called a call back number.
Asking the speaker to slow down
If you're not sure you'll understand
everything in English, be honest. Tell the speaker immediately: "My
English isn't very strong, could you please speak slowly?" Most people
will appreciate your honesty and will be happy to oblige.
Write it down
If you're nervous about telephoning in
English, it's helpful to prepare a script. Write out a brief outline of what
you need to say. You can use it to organize your thoughts beforehand and as a
reference if you get confused during the call.
Remember your manners
It's very important to sound polite on the
telephone. Use phrases like , 'Could you', and 'Please' when making requests. And
always remember to finish a conversation with 'Thank you' and 'Goodbye'![收起]
