Telephone Etiquette

. Telephone is important communication tool in business.
. Principles are to be followed while communicating through phone.



While speaking:

Do's:
. Answer call promptly (third ring).
. Listen properly without interrupting.
. Use 'Thank you' and 'Please' to display professional atmosphere.
. Smile.
Speak at proper speed.
. Focus on the caller.
. Be polite and courteous.

Don'ts:
. Never argue.
. Don't use Slang words.
. Don't speak too loudly or softly.
. Don't close conversation unprofessionally.
. Don't interrupt.
. Never talk with anything in your mouth.
. Don't multi-task while speaking.

Making Calls:

. Identify yourself soon after they answer your call.
WrongRight
 Who am I speaking with?This is Sruthi, ABC Technologies. Can I know to whom am I speaking?
. State purpose of communication.
. If you reach wrong number, apologize and then hang up.
WrongRight
Arguing  I'm sorry, I must have the wrong number
. Make calls as you promised the receiver without delay.
. If they are unavailable, leave a message or voicemail.

Answering Calls:

. Answer with a friendly greeting.
  Example: Good Morning, ABC Technologies, Sruthi speaking, how may I help you?

. Ask their even it is not necessary and use it frequently while speaking.
  Example: May I know to whom am I speaking with?
WrongRight
What do you want?How may I help you?
Who's this?May I know who is on the line, please?
What? I can't hear you.Could you speak a little louder please? 

Putting Calls on hold:

. Before putting caller on hold, ask permission politely.
WrongRight
Hold on! Could you hold on for a moment, please?
. Try not to put caller on hold for too long.
. Thank them for holding after taking of hold.
. Apologize for delay, if you made them wait too long.

Transferring Calls:

. Do only when necessary.
. Explain situation before you transfer call.
. Communicate - keep the client in the loop!
  Example: I'm going to connect you with …

. Give the name and direct number of the person you are transferring the client to. 
. Stay on the line and introduce the caller.
. If person is unavailable, ask whether caller wants to give a message or voice mail.

Taking messages:

. Ask for:
              Name,
              Company,
              Phone number,
              Message.
. Also note down the date/time and initials of receiver.
. If you fail to hear, ask caller to repeat or clarify the point.
. Verify the message by repeating.  

Ending Conversations:

. Before hanging up, be sure you have answered all questions.
. Always end pleasantly.
  Example: Have a nice day.
                  It was nice speaking to you.

Handling Rude Calls:

. Try to remain diplomatic and polite.
. Focus on problem, not the person and think of possible solution.
. Try to convey that you are trying to find solution.
. If you are unable to help, try to connect him/her with supervisor.