If you're looking for a challenging situation to practice your English, just pick up the telephone. 身在职场，打电话是不可避免的。对于有国际业务的公司来说，用英语打电话也是家常便饭。

Not being able to see the person you're talking to and the body language they're using can make chatting on the phone one of the most difficult forms of communication. Never fear, though! Here are some tips to guide you through an average telephone conversation in English.

Greetings 问候语

Every phone call should begin with a polite greeting such as, "Hi, how've you been?" or "Nice to hear from you". Even if you're calling a business contact for a specific purpose, it'd be rude to jump right into business without a little small talk at the beginning. 无论做什么，礼貌是不可少的。

Getting to the point 直奔主题

寒暄一番后，就该言归正传了。There always comes the point, however, where you want to move on from friendly banter¹ and get down to business. For this situation, use the phrase "I'm just calling to..." to transition² to the topic at hand. For example, "I'm just calling to see if you'd like to set up a meeting." If the situation is reversed³, however, and you are waiting to find out why someone called you, you can guide the conversation by saying, "So what can I do for you?"

Interrupting without insult⁴ 礼貌打断对方

有些人说起话来就是滔滔不绝。If someone is going on and on, and you'd like to interrupt, be sure to do it politely. For example, begin with "I would like to say something here, if I may" or "Allow me to make a point." Or, you could just ask: May I interrupt you for a second?

Confirming action 确认谈话内容

If you're making plans on the phone, be sure to confirm the details toward⁵ the end of the call. Begin with phrases like "Please let me confirm..." and "So, let me make sure I've got things straight..." and follow up with the details as you understand them. 这样双方都清晰明了，以免出现误解纠纷。

Closing the call 结束通话

Sometimes this can be the trickiest⁶ part of the conversation! It may be the time to offer some good wishes, such as good luck on that interview or hope you feel better soon if it's appropriate. Additionally, you may want to confirm any plans you've made: I'll see you on Friday, then. Sometimes it's easiest to just say you enjoyed speaking to the other person. Also, keep in mind that strategically⁷ saying the word well at the beginning of a sentence can indicate that you are ready to end the conversation: Well John, it's been a pleasure talking to you. 老外打算要结束电话的时候常常会说"谢谢"，这时你可就要注意了哦！