Basic question, but how do you guys normally answer the phone when you don’t have staff routing it to your office? For example, I’ve heard the partners pick up the phone and just say their full name, but that seems a little awkward to me. Saying hello seems too informal when caller ID tells me it’s opposing counsel, so…what is common practice?

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i say “this is [first name]”. if i know who’s calling, i’ll say “hi [OC]”.

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Thanks!

‘[Firm name], how may I help you?”
When staff is around and hears you answering the phone the same way they do, they will respect you — and your firm — more.

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Thanks!

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