Intro
1. Learn Vocabulary - Learn some new vocabulary before you start the lesson.
2. Read and Prepare - Read the introduction and prepare to hear the audio.
Learning how to communicate well on the telephone is one of the most important things for students who want to use English at work. There are several common phrases you can learn that will help you understand basic phone conversations. The most important thing, however, is practice! The more you talk on the phone in English the better.
Read on to learn more about improving your phone skills!
Dialog
1. Study - Read the dialog again to see how the vocab words are used.
Operator |
Sarah |
Marie |
The greatest difficulty in phone conversations is not being able to see the person you are talking to. However, with practice you can learn to be cool, calm and collected in any situation. Read the following example conversation to learn some of the key phone terms and phrases.
Operator: Hi, Davis Communications, this is James. How can I help you?
Sarah: My name is Sarah Jones. I’m trying to get a hold of Mark McMichael. Is he available?
Operator: Certainly. Hold on a minute. I’ll put you through to his office…
Marie: Mark McMichael’s office, this is Marie.
Sarah: Yes, hi, this is Sarah Jones. Is Mark in?
Marie: I’m afraid he’s out at the moment. Can I take a message?
Sarah: Yes, please. I need him to call me back as soon as possible regarding the Target account.
Marie: OK Sarah. Can I take your number?
Sarah: Yes. It’s 555-233-9454.
Marie: Alright. I’ve marked your messsage urgent so Mark will get it ASAP.
Sarah: Thank you so much.
Marie: Have a great day.
Sarah: You too.
Marie: Goodbye.
Sarah: Bye.
Quizzes
Lesson MP3
The iTEP® test
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Discussion
If you’re having trouble with phone conversations, you might need to ask the person on the other end of the line to slow down. Native English speakers often speak very quickly, which can make them hard to understand. However, if you ask them, they’ll be happy to speak more slowly and clearly.
Another thing to remember when making a call: Don’t tell the person you understand if you don’t! If you’re not sure what the person said, ask him/her to repeat it. Most people will be kind and courteous on the phone and will be happy to help you understand what they’re saying.
Good luck!
Have a great week,
John