On The Phone

Common telephone phrases to use when answering a business call

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.

Telephone calls - Common English phrases.

Answering the phone:-

Good morning/afternoon XYZ Ltd. 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?