Think about these questions, or answer them aloud.
Most voicemails follow the same order:
The first two parts come in the first few seconds, so listen carefully from the start. The request and the contact details usually come at the end.
| Part of the message | What you might hear |
|---|---|
| Who is calling | Hi, it's Priya. / This is Grace from Hamilton Office Supplies. |
| Why | I'm calling about your order. / I'm calling to let you know that … |
| A problem | I'm afraid … / Unfortunately … |
| The request | Could you …? / Please … / I'd be grateful if you could … |
| How to reply | You can reach me on … / Call me back before five. / My direct line is … |
Exam questions often ask who the speaker is or where they work. The caller doesn't always say their job. Use the clues:
When you call a business, you often hear a recorded message: opening hours, then a list of options (“For bookings, press one”).
The options rarely use your exact words. Think about the type of problem you have. If you want to move your dentist appointment to another day, the right option is probably “for appointments”, not “for new patients”. If nothing matches, the last option (“for all other questions”) is usually the one.
A strong listener hears the message in its five parts:
A typical TOEIC question is “What does the speaker ask the listener to do?” The answer is not “order more ink” or “pay for the order”. It is “call back with a decision”.
Listen to the voicemail. Choose the best answer to each question.
Listen to the voicemail and complete the message. Write ONE WORD AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
Listen to five messages. Match each message with its main purpose. There are two extra purposes you do not need.
Listen to the recorded message. Choose the correct answer.
Listen to each sentence and type exactly what you hear.
Save words to review them later with flashcards.
“I left you a voicemail this morning.”
“Could you call me back after lunch?”
“My direct line is 555-0193.”
“I'm afraid that ink is out of stock until Wednesday.”
“The viewing is on Thursday at quarter past five.”
“The rent includes water but not electricity.”
“Please bring a reference from your employer.”
“Your prescription is ready to collect.”
“I sent my travel expenses form to accounts.”
“Please attach the hotel receipt to the form.”
“Please stay on the line and a member of staff will help you.”
