MESSAGES

A message is a piece of information that you ask someone to give to another person, when it is not possible to speak to that person directly. When you want to leave a message (it means give a message to someone who answers the phone, or to an answering machine), it must be clear, short and simple. Don't tell long and confusing stories. Try not to leave long pauses.

It is possible that the answering machine (also answer phone) records messages when the person you called is (or you are) out and they can be listened to later.

Business calls are answered by the secretary or a colleague if the person you called is not available, and they will write a note about your call.

Use the following phrases:

STARTING:

Question: Ready? (it means that you check if the person is ready to take notes)
Answer: Yes, go ahead.
OR
Answer: No, wait a moment.... I'm ready now.

CONTINUING:

Q: Have you got all that? (you check if the info was understood)
A: Yes, got that, thank you.

FINISHING:

Q: Anything else?
A: No, that's all, thank you.

CHECKING:

Q: Could you read that back to me?
Yes, .....(repeating the info)
OR
Q: Could I read that back to you?
A: Yes, go ahead, please.