Answer in a quiet environment. If you're in a loud environment, move somewhere quieter before answering the phone, or turn down the music or television before answering. You want to be in a place that's quiet enough so that you can hear the person talking to you, and that he or she can hear you.

stop your other tasks before answering the phone. Take a short moment to collect your thoughts before answering. Don't be distracted, as this could lead to miscommunication（误传）between you and the person you're speaking to. If you're free from distractions, the person you're speaking to will feel that he or she has your full attention. For example, if you are working on your computer or reading a book when the phone rings, stop these tasks and then pick up the call.

Say "Hello" and tell your name in a pleasant voice. If you don't know who is calling, you can add "This is Sam." For a more formal answer, you can say, for example, "This is the Smiths' house." If you see on Caller ID that a friend or family member is calling, feel free to say "Hi Tom! How are you today?"

Take down the caller's information if the family member he or she is trying to reach is unavailable. If the caller is trying to reach someone who is not at home or is unavailable, say "I'm sorry, Mrs. Simpson. My father is not available right now. May I take a message?" Be sure to record the person's name, phone number, and reason for calling clearly. If you don't have a notepad (便条簿) nearby, ask the person on the line to wait when you quickly go to get one.