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Writing a phone script your callers will actually like

Tone, pacing and the five phrases that make AI receptionists sound warm and human.

Liam Becker

Liam Becker

Head of Product,

Friendly receptionist chat lines next to a calm call waveform

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Start with the greeting

Slow down

Five phrases that work

Test it out loud

Start with the greeting

The first five seconds set the tone for the whole call. Say who you are, say the business name, and ask one open question. Keep it under eight words if you can.

Slow down

Most scripts are written to be read, not heard. Short sentences, one idea at a time and a pause before important details, like dates and times, make a call feel calm instead of rushed.

Five phrases that work

  • “Let me check that for you.” It tells the caller something is happening

  • “Just to confirm…” before repeating any booking detail

  • “Is there anything else I can help with today?” before ending the call

  • “I’ll text you the details now.” so nothing has to be written down

  • “Thanks for calling, have a lovely day.” Warm endings matter

Callers do not remember what you said. They remember whether it felt easy.

Test it out loud

Read every line of your script out loud, then call your own number and listen. If a sentence makes you take a breath halfway through, it is too long.

Liam Becker
Liam Becker

Written by Liam Becker

Head of Product at Hollis. Liam spent six years writing scripts for clinic call centers before designing how Hollis talks to callers.

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Let’s get your front desk covered

Answer every call, book every appointment and give your team their time back, starting this week.

Live in a day

Let’s get your front desk covered

Answer every call, book every appointment and give your team their time back, starting this week.

Live in a day

Let’s get your front desk covered

Answer every call, book every appointment and give your team their time back, starting this week.

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