Telephone English: Making an appointment

This conversation is an example of formal telephone English. For an
example of a similar conversation with informal telephone English, click here.

“Thank you for calling HiTech Company, Amanda speaking. How can I help you?”

“Hello, this is Lisa Greene. May I speak with Peter Jackson, please?”

“Please hold, and I’ll put you through to his office.”

[…waiting…]

“I’m sorry, it appears Mr. Jackson is not available at the moment. He may have stepped out for lunch. Would you like to leave a message?”

“Yes, could you ask him to call me back later? I don’t believe he has my new office number – it’s 324-0506.”

“Of course, Ms. Greene. I’ll make sure he gets the message.”

“Thank you. Goodbye.”

“Hello?”

“May I speak with Lisa Greene?”

“This is she.”

“Hi Lisa, this is Peter Jackson returning your call.”

“Hi Peter! I was wondering if we could set up a meeting to discuss some of our new products.”

“Good idea. Let me check my calendar. Are you free next Tuesday?”

“Actually, I’d prefer Wednesday, if that’s all right with you. We’re expecting a visit from some clients on Tuesday.”

“No problem. I’m busy in the morning, but how about after lunch? Let’s say 3 o’clock?”

“That works for me!”

“Great! I’ll see you next Wednesday afternoon, then.”

“OK. Thanks for calling, Peter. Bye.”