When answering a business phone it is important that it is not allowed to ring more than three times. Advise employees that the second or third ring is the ideal time to pick up the telephone.
The phone should be answered with a positive greeting such as “Hello,” “Good Morning,” or “Good Afternoon,” etc. Following the greeting the person who answers the phone should give his or her name and the name of the business or organization that is being contacted.
Put on a smile before placing or answering a phone call. When a person smiles it affects the sound of his or her voice, giving it a more pleasant and friendly tone.
For clarity, the telephone should be held a distance of two fingers from the mouth.
Speak in a clear tone using a voice that is neither too loud nor too low. Words should be enunciated and said slow enough that people are able to understand what is being said to them.
If someone must be put on hold, ask for permission first and give him or her the option to leave a voicemail message. When taking them off of hold thank the caller to show that their time is respected.
When a caller is speaking, listen to what he or she has to say without interruptions.
When placing a call a person should always state his or her name before asking for the person that the call is for.
Always return phone calls if a return call has been promised. If a time frame was given the caller must make every attempt to return the phone call as quickly as possible within that frame.
If it is necessary to transfer a call, inform the person on the other end before doing so. It is also important to explain the need for the transfer.
Before transferring a call, confirm that the person to whom the call is being transferred is available. This person’s name should be given to the party who is being transferred.