How to Answer Someone Else's Phone

Answering a friend's phone can leave you feeling awkward. Knowledge of phone etiquette can help to reduce the awkwardness. Politeness and good manners are key to representing your friend and yourself well in a phone conversation. First impressions are lasting, even when they are over the telephone.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper
• Pen

1. Take phone calls in a quiet area where you cannot be interrupted and you can hear clearly. Turn off the volume on televisions and radios.

2. Answer someone else's phone only when you have permission to do so. Greet the caller in a friendly tone with a simple "Hello."

3. State who you are and that you are answering the phone for your friend. Make certain that the caller does not mistake you for your friend.

4. Ask the caller's name in a polite manner if she does not introduce herself.

5. Give the phone to your friend soon after answering formalities have taken place. Keep conversation to a minimum if the caller is someone that you know.

6. Ask if you can take a message when the other person is not available. Take careful notes that include the caller's name, phone number, time called and a brief reason for the call. Promptly give the message to your friend.

7. Reassure the caller that the message will be given to your friend quickly. End the phone call with a polite "Goodbye." Hang up the phone only after you are sure that the caller is finished with the conversation.