Starting the Call Professionally
Setting time and logistics upfront reduces anxiety by giving the conversation a clear structure from the first sentence.
"Hi, can you hear me okay?"
Quick tech check — always do this first.
"Thanks for jumping on the call — should we get started?"
Moves things forward without formality.
"I've got about 30 minutes — does that work for everyone?"
Sets expectations early.
Handling Audio and Connection Issues
These phrases are essential — audio problems happen on every call, and having ready language for them removes one entire category of stress.
"Sorry, you cut out for a second — could you repeat that last part?"
Polite and specific about what was missed.
"I think there's a slight delay — go ahead, I'll wait."
Prevents talking over each other.
"I'm having some connection issues — let me turn my camera off to help the audio."
Explains the action before taking it.
Buying Yourself Thinking Time
Native speakers do this constantly — it's not a sign of weak English, it's normal conversational technique.
"That's a good question — let me think about that for a second."
Buys time while showing engagement.
"Just to make sure I understand — are you asking about [X] or [Y]?"
Clarifies and buys time simultaneously.
"Can I come back to that point in a moment?"
Defers without dismissing.
Coaching Tip
I encourage clients to keep one thinking-time phrase beside their screen until it becomes automatic. A calm 'Let me think about that for a moment' sounds far more confident than filling the silence with rushed, unfinished sentences.
Interrupting Politely
Without visual cues, it's harder to know when to speak. These phrases make interruption feel natural rather than rude.
"Sorry to jump in — quick point on that."
Signals you're adding value, not derailing.
"Can I add something here?"
Asks permission — very polite.
"Just to build on what you said..."
Frames your point as collaborative.
Ending a Call Clearly
Summarising before ending isn't just polite — it protects you. It confirms everyone understood the same outcome, in your own words, before the call ends.
"I think that covers everything — anything else before we wrap up?"
Invites final input before closing.
"Great, so to summarise: [quick recap]. I'll send a follow-up email."
Confirms actions and ownership.
"Thanks everyone, talk soon."
Warm, simple close.
Video calls in particular trigger more anxiety because you can see yourself on screen, which adds an extra layer of self-consciousness. If this affects you, try minimising or hiding your own video tile — many professionals find it noticeably reduces the mental load of the call, letting more attention go toward the actual conversation.
Anna Baran
Cambridge CELTA Certified English Coach · Business English Specialist
Last updated: 15 January 2026