Formal to Client
Workplace · Phone
只今席を外しております。よろしければご伝言を承りましょうか。 — They have just stepped away from their desk. Would you like to leave a message? (Workplace · Phone, Formal to Client, JLPT N3)
You
只今席を外しております。よろしければご伝言を承りましょうか。
ただいませきをはずしております。よろしければごでんごんをうけたまわりましょうか。
They have just stepped away from their desk. Would you like to leave a message?
Romaji: Tadaima seki wo hazushite orimasu. Yoroshikereba go-dengon wo uketamawarimashō ka. / Reply Romaji: Onegai itashimasu.
Reply
お願いいたします。
おねがいいたします。
Yes, please.
Gesture & etiquette
Have pen and paper ready before answering calls. Speak clearly and at a measured pace. After taking the message, read it back: '復唱させていただきます' (Let me repeat that back to you). Deliver the message to the colleague promptly upon their return.
In Japanese phone etiquette, you must explain why the person cannot take the call — never just say 'not available.' Taking a message is the expected follow-up offer. Always repeat the caller's name and message back to confirm accuracy before ending the call.