How can I help?

[gemma4d]

Having a change of bosses at work. The order from on high is to answer the phone

"....How can I help?"

Is this correct? It sounds cras to me. Should it be "how may I help" or am I getting muddled?

no its may i help? or how can i help? may-asking permission to help/asking if there is anything i can do- how can- presumption is that the caller needs help and you just need to ask how

Sounds crass to me too.

They may not have been ringing for help but just to say hello or to help you.

And when people on the phone have been told exactly what to say it just sounds so artificial and sticks out like a sore thumb.

Oh well, guess I'll just have to put up with it. It's not too bad if it's correct grammar, even if it does sound naff!

Thanks.