Voice Mail

Today many companies seem to be utilizing voice mail instead of answering the phone. Unfortunately, this is the new reality for our age. Voice mail is the new gatekeeper and managers are using it to get control over the events in their day.  You need to be aware the capabilities of the available technology so that you can leverage them to your advantage instead of being managed by them.  In addition, there are ways you can communicate your message to entice your audience to return your call or encourage them to expect your return call.
Here are 5 tips to deal with the new reality of voice mail:

1. Unblock Your Number. All business phones today have the ability to display the caller's phone number. Don't worry about displaying your number on their phone unless you've already shown that you are the “persistent” sales rep that calls 7 times a day with the same message.
2. Speak Clearly. I never realized the importance of this aspect until I played back one of my messages. Low vocal volume, background noise, and low fidelity will obscure your message. Give your message a listen. Make sure that you can hear it clearly and that the vocal tone conveys your excitement and enthusiasm.
3. Start Your Introduction With Something That Is Of Interest To Them. There are a number of ways to get their interest at the opening, from using their name to using outrageous facts. The point here is to start engaging your prospect as soon as possible and keep that engagement throughout the voice mail message. Leaving your name, company name and contact number at the beginning of your voice mail may provide a wealth of information, but there's a big difference between providing information and engaging them. The point here is to engage your prospect immediately. The fastest and easiest way to do that is by opening with something that is of interest to them.
4. Keep It Short.
5. Your Name, Company Name and Contact Information. Leave your contact information at the end along with a time and date when you will call back. Never let your prospects shoulder all of the responsibility by expecting them to contact you.