Hello, I'd like to speak to Mr. Stevens, please.

In this situation, "I'd like" + infinitive is a polite way of saying "I want" + infinitive. It is used for making polite requests.

Other examples are:

I'd like to arrange a meeting for next week, if possible.

I'd like to talk to you about last month's figures.

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I'll put you through.

This expression means that the operator, or receptionist, will connect you with the person you want to speak to.

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I'm afraid the line's busy.

This is used to introduce bad news or an apology.

Other examples are:

I'm afraid I need more time to finish the report.

I'm afraid Mr. Simpson is not at his desk right now.

I'm afraid we'll have to close the factory in Malaysia.

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Would you like to hold?

In this sentence, "would" + infinitive is used to make a polite offer.

"Would you like to hold?" means "Would you like to wait (until the person is free)".

Other examples are:

Would you like to leave a message?

Would you like to see our new factory?

Would you like to sit down?

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This is Hideyuki Miura from Kobelco systems.

When you introduce yourself on the telephone, use "this is" + (given name + family name). Do NOT use "I am" in this situation. Also, remember that Western people say their given name before their family name.

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I'm calling about our new project.

"I'm calling about" is used to tell the other person the reason why you are phoning, and to introduce the topic.

Other examples are:

I'm calling about the order you placed with us last week.

I'm calling about next week's meeting.

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