This section features phrases you might hear when you telephone a company hoping to talk to someone.

Imagine you are calling a company and want to speak to someone who works there. Can you think of any phrases you might use, or that you might hear?

Now listen to two conversations. In the first conversation Richard Davies is calling the marketing department of a company and wants to be put through to Rosalind Wilson. In the second conversation Mike Andrews wants to talk to Jason Roberts in the marketing department. As you listen, see if you can hear some of the phrases above.

(1)

Operator: Hello, you've reached the marketing department. How can I help?
Richard Davies: Yes can I speak to Rosalind Wilson, please?
Operator: Who’s calling please?
Richard Davies: It’s Richard Davies here
Operator: Certainly. Please hold and I’ll put you through.
Richard Davies: Thank you.

(2)

Operator: Hello, marketing. How can I help?
Mike Andrews: Could I speak to Jason Roberts please?
Operator: Certainly. Who shall I say is calling?
Mike Andrews: My name’s Mike Andrews.
Operator: Just a second - I’ll see if he’s in. Hello, Jason, I’ve got Mike Andrews on the phone for you ... OK - I’ll put him through. Hang on a moment, I’m just putting you through.

Instructions: Choose the one correct answer

1. When you telephone a company the person answering the phone may ask you a question. Which is the correct question?

A. Who’s calling please?
B. Who calls?
C. Who it is?
D. Who called?

2. Which phrase means the same as ‘hang on a moment?’

A. Just a second
B. I’ll put you on
C. Go ahead
D. I’m ready

3. Choose the correct word: “Please ……. and I’ll put you through.”

A. stop
B. stay
C. talk
D. hold

4. What is the expression used to connect two people on the telephone?

A. I’m sending you through
B. I’m putting you through
C. I’m calling you through
D. I’m talking you through