Telephone Etiquette?

[Northland]

I was speaking with someone earlier today about the correct way to call someone, especially when at work. They believed you should always ask "Is this clients name?" before starting your call however I hate when people call me asking who they are speaking with without knowing their intention.

I believe the correct way is: "Hello this is my name from business name, can I speak with clients name please?".

Similarly when I call someone on a personal level, especially someone who I don't know particularly well I usually do the same (minus the business name bit, obviously).

When I answer the phone at work it's usually the following : "Good Morning/Afternoon Business Name, Name speaking".

So, how do you handle your phone conversations? I'm trying to gauge if i've been doing it wrong -- I've always preferred e-mail...!

When in work situations, my manner has been 'May I speak with ___________? This is Mr._____________ calling.' For calling people, non-business, if they live with others 'May I speak with ____________? This is Omar' (I include the last name if they ask). Once I have the proper party, I say 'Good morning/afternoon/evening' and ask, 'how are you today?' (I ask for both business and personal as to their state for the day).

 

[Lex]

...

I believe the correct way is: "Hello this is my name from business name, can I speak with clients name please?".

...
When I answer the phone at work it's usually the following : "Good Morning/Afternoon Business Name, Name speaking".

...

^^ This.

You have been doing it correctly. However one thing I would like to add is that whenever I telephone someone I always ask... "Did I reach you at a good time to talk?" It amazes me the number of seemingly intelligent people that do not afford me the same courtesy and feel put off when I tell them I must return their call at a more convenient time.
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and ^^This.

As a third note, I will answer the phone, "Good Morning/Afternoon, this is ________" when a call has been placed on hold by the receptionist and I am told to pick up line 99 or 38 or 72.

On far too many occasions, the admin staff get the phone lines confused, so saying my name eliminates confusion and/or awkward conversation starters based on mistaken identity.