What is the BEST greeting when answering the telephone in a business or office setting?

Using “Good morning/afternoon” is the most appropriate greeting in a business or office setting as it conveys professionalism and courtesy. This greeting not only acknowledges the time of day but also sets a positive tone for the conversation. It demonstrates respect for the caller and establishes a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In a business context, first impressions are crucial, and a polite, time-specific greeting enhances the caller's experience. It shows that the person answering the phone is attentive and prepared to engage in a professional dialogue. This careful choice of words reflects well on the company’s image.

Other greetings, while they may be friendly, do not capture the same level of professionalism. Simply saying "Hello" is generic and does not create a sense of warmth. "Hello, who is calling?" can come off as abrupt and may seem uninviting. "Greetings!" sounds overly formal and may not resonate well in a casual business environment. Thus, the time-specific greeting is the ideal choice for fostering a professional interaction.