[For further information]
Taking a business call in English can be stressful, especially when the conversation starts quickly or the accent is unfamiliar. However, with a few key expressions and a bit of practice, it is perfectly possible to remain fluent and professional, even from a distance. Find out how to take a call, transfer a call or take a message in English without losing the thread!
In an increasingly international business environment, calls in English are now part of the daily routine for many employees: sales representatives, assistants, customer relations managers, HR managers, etc. However, even with a good level of English, picking up the phone is often still an ordeal! Exchanges are spontaneous, rapid, without visual support and every word counts. Here are a few guidelines for answering, directing or ending a call with confidence, using simple wording.
Introduce yourself
“Hello, [company/department], [full name] speaking.”
«Hello, [first name + last name] from [company/department]».»
→ In English, we often indicate the company first before indicating its name.
→ At reception/telephone switchboards, call centres and customer services, the company is always mentioned so that callers know where they have arrived.
[Also read]
Introducing yourself, asking for someone, closing politely... Make your English phone calls a success with these essential expressions!
[Also read]
Taking a call in English can quickly lead to stress... especially when you're just starting out! Here are some useful phrases.
Some key phrases for taking a call in English
Asking the right questions
To help you understand the purpose of the call, here are a few useful phrases:
“May I ask what you're calling about?”
«What is the purpose of your call?»
“May I have your name and number, please?”
«Can I have your name and number, please?»
→ These formulations save time while maintaining a courteous tone.
Transfer or defer a call
If you need to transfer a call, use :
“Just a moment, I'll put you through.” or “Just a moment, I'll transfer your call.”
"One moment, I'll put him on.
In the event of unavailability :
“He/She is on another call.”
«He/She is already online.»
“I'm not available at the moment, I'm in a meeting.”
«I'm not available at the moment, I'm in a meeting.»
And as a reminder:
“Is there a good time for me to call you back?”
«When can I call you back?»
Conclude politely
"Thank you for your call. Goodbye."
"Thank you for your call. Goodbye."
Vocabulary
| Expression | Translation | Context |
| “One moment, please.” | One moment, please. | Very common and professional. |
| "Hold the line, please." | Please hold. | For reception services. |
| “I'll take a message.” | I'll take a message. | If the recipient is absent. |
