English with Kirsty – episode 6
10 tips for effective communication on the telephone – 2
In this episode I continue my three-part series in which I look at how you can improve your telephone skills.
You can listen to episode 6 here:
5. Make sure you listen carefully
Communicating is not just about speaking. You need to listen as well.
Don’t just listen so that you can plan your next point. Make sure that you understand what the other person wants to say.
If you want to ask questions, you have to listen so that your questions will be relevant.
6. Speak clearly and be succinct
Don’t speak too quickly or too quietly. Otherwise the other person won’t understand you.
Be clear about what you want other people to do. Make the request easy for them to understand.
Don’t jump around from one subject to another as new ideas come into your head.
7. If you don’t understand something, ask
It will save you time and you don’t need to feel embarrassed about asking for clarification.
Sometimes it’s good to summarise and clarify anyway, particularly if there has been a long discussion.
Example vocabulary:
Can I just clarify what we’ve agreed? You will … and I will …
So you would like me to find out … and get back to you tomorrow.
So you need to have further information about … before you can make your decision.
So you like the idea in theory, but there is a potential problem in relation to …
Can I please check what you mean by “…”
Further information
During the podcast, I mentioned my 5-day audio course on preparing to present information in English and my 20 tips information sheet that has a section on improving your listening skills. You can request either or both of these free learning resources on the contact form at the bottom of this page.
The audio course is delivered over five days. Each day you will receive a link to a page on my site where there is five to ten minutes of audio training, as well as written information to summarise the key points from the audio.
I love to hear from my listeners! If you have any comments or questions, do get in touch using my contact form.
English with Kirsty News is sent out once a month and it contains articles and other information for learners of English as well as the latest news from English with Kirsty.
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