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Work Study Quick Reference

Information necessary for library work study students, including information on ongoing tasks, new programs, and reminders for ongoing processes.

Tips for Great Telephone Etiquette

Always greet your caller:

"Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening, Keleher Learning Commons, this is (your name), how may I help you?"

 

  • Smile--try saying the introduction with a smile and without one. You can hear the difference in your voice, even without being able to see the other person.
  • Be polite and courteous.
  • Repeat caller's question for clarification and provide an answer.
  • Always be polite--"please," "thank you," and "I am sorry."
  • When the caller is speaking, listen to what he or she has to say without interruptions. 
  • If transferring a call, let the caller know before transferring the call. Tell caller, in the event there is a disconnection, the number to reach Mr./Mrs. (name) and their extension.
  • To transfer calls, press TRANSFER, dial the extension, press TRANSFER again to complete the transfer or hang up the receiver.
  • If the librarian is unavailable, please take a detailed message
    • Name of caller
    • Date & time of call
    • Caller's phone number
    • Detailed message
    • Your signature
    • Take the message to the person or alert her/him that a message is at the Circulation Desk.

Suggested Statements when Answering the Phone

  • (Person's name) is away from her/his desk. May I take a message or is there something I can do to assist you?
  • (Person's name) is not in his/her office at the moment but he/she is in the building. May I take a message?
  • (Person's name) is out of the office today. Is there something I can help you with?

Statements to Avoid when Answering the Phone

  • I don't know!
  • He/She is not here.
  • They left and I don't have a clue where they are.