8 Unforgivable Ways to Answer a Phone Call

Answering the phone gracefully is a critical aspect of maintaining good communication etiquette. However, some of us might unintentionally adopt answers that not only disrespect the caller but also damage our professional and personal image. In this article, we will explore eight of the worst ways to answer a phone call and emphasize the importance of approaching this common task with utmost respect and politeness.

Speaking Abruptly in a Foreign Language

One of the most unpleasant ways to answer a phone call is by speaking abusively or abruptly in a foreign language. Imagine a caller hearing “Kloohn-ghon!” from another end of the line. This abrupt response, when done in a language the caller does not understand, can cause confusion, frustration, and mistrust. For example, the Klingon greeting “What do you want!!” might be amusing during a group chat, but it's not a suitable way to communicate in a professional or personal setting. It is crucial to greet the caller with clarity and friendliness, regardless of their language background.

Using a Zany Dialect Exchange

Another poor approach to answering a phone call is using a similarly amusing yet bizarre exchange. When your father expects a certain caller and specifically asks you not to answer, you might jokingly respond with the cryptic phrase, “Kitty’s Cat House Tiger Speaking.” Your father, upon attempting to work with you, may only get replies like, “Don’t know, sounded like a confused old man.” Such exchanges can be seen as disrespectful and may lead to the caller hanging up, especially in professional settings. Communicating in a clear, polite, and respectful manner is always the best strategy.

Answering with a Simple “What?”

Using just one word to answer a call, especially with caller ID, can be incredibly rude and disrespectful. While caller ID provides the identity of the caller, it does not alleviate the need for a polite response. Saying “What” to a known caller shows a lack of respect and can make the call feel like an interruption rather than a dialogue. A better approach would be to greet the caller with a simple “Hello,” or “Good morning/afternoon,” to show your courtesy and attentiveness.

Pick Up the Phone and Get Busy with Other Stuff

Multi-tasking during a call can lead to poor communication and a lack of focus. It is essential to give your full attention to the caller, especially when the conversation might involve important information. If you cannot provide your undivided attention, it is best to refrain from answering the call at that moment and use voicemail instead. Voicemail allows you to listen to the message later, providing you with the necessary time to think and return the call when you can give it proper attention.

Spying on Callers

Responding with a tone that suggests you are monitoring or secretly observing the caller, as in “Welcome to the CIA’s private number please note for training purposes we will be spying on you from now on please leave your full name and number we will call you back!” can be both unsettling and offensive. This type of response not only violates the caller's privacy but also creates a hostile environment that can discourage them from contacting you again. It is important to maintain professionalism and build trust with your calls.

Give a Misleading or Indecipherable Answer

Providing a vague or misleading answer can leave the caller confused and frustrated. Instead of giving a direct and clear response, you might say something like, “Yes … you had the right number my youngest son with a warped sense of humor answered the phone.” Such an answer can be easily misinterpreted and might make the caller doubt your reliability or professionalism. Always make sure to give clear and honest answers to avoid misunderstandings.

Demonstrating Disregard for the Caller's Time

Responding to a call with a tangential or non-sequitur answer shows a lack of respect for the caller’s time. Instead of addressing the caller's immediate concern, you might quickly change the subject or give a circuitous response. For example, saying, “I’m fixing a leak in the bathroom and I can’t take the call right now. Let’s talk later,” can communicate that you are disinterested or overburdened. It is essential to treat the caller's time with the same respect you would want for your own.

Ending the Call Abruptly

Ending a phone call abruptly can leave the caller feeling ostracized and upset. If you cannot give the call the attention it deserves, it is better to politely excuse yourself and say, “Thank you for calling. I will discuss this further when I can.” This statement shows that you value the caller’s time and intention while providing a clear and professional exit from the conversation. Always strive to maintain a courteous and considerate tone, even if the call needs to be postponed.

In conclusion, answering a phone call is more than just providing a voice; it is a gateway to building trust and rapport. By avoiding the abovementioned unsettling responses and adopting a respectful and responsive approach, you can ensure that your calls not only lead to productive communication but also enhance the overall relationship with your callers.