How do you speak with customers in different languages on the phone?

Hey everyone, I'm the founder and developer of OneVoice, based in Italy. I'm exploring how translation technology can improve communication between hotels, travel businesses and international guests.

The problem I'm solving:

In hospitality, the phone language barrier is one of the most immediate and stressful challenges to handle in real time. It's often not just about a booking, but a guest who needs urgent help, directions or clarification before they arrive.

Do you speak with guests in different languages?

You may have experienced this: The phone rings, you answer, and the guest on the other end is speaking a language you don't understand at all.

- What strategies or tools (live translation apps, shortcuts, scripts) do you currently use so that neither you nor the guest panics?

- Do you have a Plan B, such as switching to a written chat like WhatsApp or SMS where automated translation is easier, or do you rely on a multilingual team member?

- What is the most complex language-barrier situation you've had to resolve?

Thanks for your insights and I look forward to your feedback!

What I'm building:

OneVoice Business is a web-based service for real-time translated phone calls. Each person speaks their own language and hears the other person translated, with translated subtitles on screen. A hotel or B&B sets up its own page with its logo and contact details, then shares the link on its website, as a QR code, or by WhatsApp or email. Guests choose their language and call from the browser, with no app or account needed. Learn more at onevoicebusiness.ermeslogic.com