3.3 Making Phone Calls
（電話をかける）
Let’s move on to another task, making phone calls. Just as we learned in the lesson of how to write email, there are some tips for making phone calls effectively too. Tom, how do you start your conversation on the phone?
First of all, I introduce myself to the person I’m speaking to.
Perfect! You already learned the technique of how to introduce yourself as a researcher in Module 1 of EA1.
I will also say who I’d like to speak to and explain why I’m making the phone call. In most cases, I ask someone for favors or to answer my questions.
In such cases, the next thing you need to do is ask someone’s schedule, suggest a time for a meeting, and arrange where to meet up.
Got it.
After the talk, how do you end your conversation?
It’s very important to express my gratitude before hanging up, right?
Absolutely! Here is a variety of useful expressions for the phone conversations.
3.3.1 Telling Who You Would Like to Speak to
（誰と話したいか伝える）
The person who picks up the phone may not be the one you would like to talk to. In such cases, you need to tell this person whom you want to speak to. These expressions are useful in this situation.
Is there a difference between “May I speak to Mr. Jones?” and “May I speak with Mr. Jones?”
Not really. It’s a matter of preference. Some people say “to” sounds one way while “with” sounds you are more engaged in a conversation with another person.
I see.
3.3.2 Asking Someone for Favors
（お願いごとをする）
Once you express who you would like to speak to, you could use some of the following phrases to get to the point. That is, “asking someone a favor.” Just as Japanese language does, English has ways to express your “requests” or “will” politely.
That’s what I am not sure about.
No worries anymore!
I’ll try to use the phrases introduced above because they are suitable for asking someone for favors politely.
Are there any points I should consider for being polite to others, May?
I will not fail to show my understanding of how busy the recipient is, or of how considerate that person is.
I’m proud of you, May!