When you ring someone you are expected to use the so-called TELEPHONE TERMS.

YOU (i.e. the person calling) call and may say:

This is Tom./Tom here. (Use these expressions when your friend is at the other end.)

My name is White/This is John White from the sales department.

And then say ...

Is that the Park Hotel?

I wonder if you could help me....

May I speak to Mr. Johnson please?

I am calling about .....

Can I have the personnel department? I'd like to speak to whoever is in charge of recruitment.

I'd like to speak to someone in your personnel department, please.

Could you take a message?

Could you ask Mr. Jones to ring me back? Could you ask Mr. Johnson to call me as soon as he is free?

I'll call again in the morning.

Sorry, I didn't catch you. The line is really bad. Could you speak up please?

You'll hear responses from the persons called....

Good morning! Can I help you?

Speaking.

John Brown speaking.

Extension 234.

This is 423 789.

Sales department, can I help you?

Who is that speaking, please?

I am sorry/I am afraid, Mr. Jones is out at the moment/is not available at the moment. Could you call back later?

Can I take a message?

Hold the line, I'll put you through.

I am sorry, you have got the wrong number.

Can you speak more slowly?