Phone scripts

Free · Copy-paste

The phone call, in French, without the panic. Ready-to-follow scripts — replace the text in [brackets] and keep them in front of you during the call. No invented phone numbers or fees: call the organization for the specifics. Each comes in both English and French.

Looking for the French version of these templates? Visit the French site.

Calling a government office

For Services Québec, RAMQ, Service Canada — a question or to follow up on a file.

Hello, my name is [your name].

I'd like to [get information about / follow up on] [your request, e.g.: my health-insurance card application].

[If they ask for a file or reference number:]
My file number is [number].

I'm sorry, I speak French but not perfectly yet. Could you speak a little more slowly, please?

Could you repeat that, please?
Could you spell that word for me?

[To confirm what you understood:]
So, if I understand correctly, I need to [restate the step]. Is that right?

Thank you very much for your help. Have a good day!

Have your file number, an ID and something to write with ready before you dial.
Saying upfront that you're learning French usually gets the agent to slow down and speak more clearly — it's normal and welcome.
Write down the agent's name and the time of the call; useful if you have to call back.

Frequently asked questions

Are the templates really free?+

Yes — the Quebec CV builder, the email templates, the cover letter and the phone scripts are all free. No account is required to copy them.

Are the email templates bilingual?+

Yes — each email template has a French and an English version ready to copy, for housing and job procedures.

Does my CV have to be in French?+

In Quebec, employers expect a CV in French (or English) in the local format: no photo, no date of birth. The builder produces a French CV; for an English version, use the English site.

Can I adapt the templates to my situation?+

Yes — copy the template, replace what is between the [ ] brackets with your own information, and adjust the tone to your situation.