Among the most difficult things for English learners to master is proper intonation and pronunciation when speaking over the phone. Part of ALTA’s accent reduction training includes interactive homework lessons featuring recordings of real-world scenarios.
The following recordings (MP3 files that you can listen to repeatedly, or download for use on any media player) will guide you through 33 typical English phrases used during telephone conversation in a professional setting. Listen, repeat, and practice!
1. Hello. Could I speak to Mr. John Smith, please? Listen
2. Who’s calling, please? Listen
3. One moment, please. I’ll put you through. Listen
4. I’ll put Mr. Smith on.Listen
5. I’ll transfer you. Listen
6. I am afraid the line’s busy. Would you like to hold? Listen
7. No. I’ll call back later. Listen
8. Could you tell me who is responsible for…? Listen
9. Could I speak with someone who deals with…? Listen
10. Could I take your number? Listen
11. Can I leave a message? Listen
12. Ok. I’ll let him know. Listen
13. I’ll ask him to call you back. Listen
14. I’ll pass on the message. Listen
15. I got your message. I’m returning your call. Listen
16. How can I help you? Listen
17. Is now a convenient time to talk? Listen
18. I am a little busy right now. Listen
19. Would you like me to call you back? Listen
20. When is a good time to call? Listen
21. Could you send me an email to confirm that? Listen
22. I am not sure I understand. What do you mean by that? Listen
23. It’s a bad line. Could you please speak up? Listen
24. Sorry, could you speak more slowly, please? Listen
25. Sorry, could you say that again?Listen
26. I didn’t catch your last name. Listen
27. How do you spell that? Listen
28. Just to check that I am clear on this… Listen
29. Just to make sure I understand it correctly… Listen
30. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Listen
31. Thanks for calling. I’ll speak to you later. Listen
32. Thank you very much for your help. Listen
33. You’re welcome. Listen
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