And if you have decided to develop your career abroad or in a multinational company or you study in places where English is mainly spoken, speaking on the phone (with all the difficulties of understanding due belgium phone number data to the absence of non-verbal language, as well as the lack of clarity in the sound that it entails, for example, due to poor coverage) can be quite a challenge.
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Tips to improve your English in telephone conversations
Practice your listening skills . This skill is essential to be able to understand what is being said to us without the support of non-verbal language. In addition, it is also an ideal formula for responding appropriately.
Prepare your conversations in advance , anticipating possible questions from your interlocutor. It is also very useful to have a pen and paper on hand to write down what the other person is telling you and to have a dictionary on hand, in case it is necessary.
Ask questions , especially if there is something you don't understand or need clarification. This will help you improve your understanding.
Use connectors . Connectors are a great way to structure a conversation. They also help maintain the flow of the conversation and improve the interlocutor's understanding. Words like "for example," "however," and "in addition" can help cement your speech.
Speak slowly . When speaking English on the phone, try to speak more slowly than usual to make sure the other person understands what you are saying.
Study common phrases . Take advantage of a key feature of telephone conversations: how predictable they are. For example, you can introduce yourself using the phrase Hello, this is Antonio López speaking , ask the other person to identify themselves with the following phrase: May I ask who's calling, please?, or put someone on hold with the phrase Please hold… I'll put you through to Ms Roberts .