Practice these voicemail messages using correct word stress. The focus word of each thought group is in bold letters. The thought groups are divided by slashes.

A. Phone Tag

Mary’s Answering Machine: Hi, this is Mary. I am sorry // I missed your call. Please leave a message // after the beep, and I’ll call you back // as soon as I can.

Mike: Hi Mary, this is Mike. It’s been a while // since we last spoke. I hope you’re doing well. I’m calling to see // if you’re free tomorrow. I am going hiking // with some friends// and I wanted to see // if you’d like to join us. It would be great to see you. Give me a call // and let me know // if you’re available.

Mary: Hi Mike, this is Mary, returning your call. It was great to hear from you. Sorry that we keep missing each other. Yeah, I’d love to go hiking with you. Let me know // what time you’re thinking of going. I’m looking forward to it. I should be home tonight // after seven, so call me // and let me know // where we should meet.

B. Sales Call

Note that individual speaking style or some circumstances can determine the number of thought groups there are in a sentence. For example, the following speech has fewer thought groups because the speaker is a salesman who needs to deliver his message quickly.

Good afternoon, Mr. Johnson. This is Bill Jones calling. I would like to tell you about the new product // our company is selling. I believe // it will greatly benefit your organization. We recently conducted a study // on how your customer’s needs are changing. We are able to help you run your business more efficiently // and at the same time, save you money. I think that people in your firm // would be very interested in our services. I’d like to set up a time to talk with you // about how our company can help you. I can assure you // that it will be worth your while. When would be a good time // for us to meet?