English with Kirsty – episode 7
10 tips for effective communication on the telephone – 3
In this episode I conclude my three-part series in which I look at how you can improve your telephone skills.
You can listen to episode 7 here:
8. Don’t be tempted to do other things at the same time
Give your listener your full attention.
People will be able to hear you rustling papers, typing or moving around.
If you are interrupted and you have to do something else, offer to call the other person back rather than leaving them on hold.
9. Summarise the conversation at the end
You may want to do this in writing or on the telephone.
It’s good to summarise what is going to happen next, who will do what and when tasks should be completed.
This means everyone will have the same information and it reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
10. Voicemails – be clear and keep them short
Make sure that a voicemail is the best way to communicate the information – would an email be better?
Make sure that your message is clear.
Avoid long, rambling messages.
Make sure that the other person knows how they can contact you and what, if anything, you want them to do.
Further information
During the podcast, I mentioned my PDF which brings together the tips from the three podcasts on this subject. You can request this free learning resource using the contact form at the bottom of this page.
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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