| >
Residential telephones are answered with a simple
“Hello”. |
| >
Business phones are answered by a receptionist who states the name of the
company, business or organization. |
| > When
calling, ask for the person you wish to speak to or state the reason for your
call, e.g. “Is Tony there, please?” |
| > Do
not demand, “Who is this?” when you call a home or business,
especially when you have not identified yourself. |
| > If
you reach a wrong number, apologize. |
| > If
you are not sure if you have mis-dialed a number or whether you have written
the number down incorrectly, check the number with the party you have reached
by saying “ Is this 491-7623?” |
| > Do
not ask, “What number is this?” |
| >
Another way to ask is “I’m trying to reach John Smith at 769-2345.
Have I got the correct number?” |
| > Do
not identify yourself to an unknown caller. |
| > Never
give personal information over the telephone. |
| >
Sometimes, dishonest people use the telephone to find out if there is anyone at
home or to get a credit card number. |
| > When
calling for information, state the nature of the call and ask for the right
person before going into detail. |
| > If
someone is providing information or explaining something, be sure to
acknowledge you are listening. Do this during the speaker’s
pauses. |
| > Uh-uh
is a negative response meaning “no”. |
| >
Uh-huh is positive response meaning “yes”. |
| > If
you are silent for too long, you will make the speaker nervous and they will
usually ask, “Are you still there?” |
| > 911
is used only for emergency situations e.g., fire, severe accidents (heart
attacks, bleeding, no breathing). |
| > Do
not call 911 for information. |
| >
Police divisions have a number for general inquiries. |
| > When
calling 911 give your address first. |
| > Keep
emergency numbers beside your phone. |
| > If an
answering machine takes your call, speak clearly, slowly and loudly, leave your
name, telephone number and a brief message. |