As the odds of receiving a call back from your voicemail message are already low, you need to be very specific about what you say in your voicemail to give you the greatest chance of getting a call back. What you absolutely do NOT want to do is make yourself sound like a salesperson making a cold call. Instead, you want to sound like a very confident business colleague who deserves the respect of getting a call back.
In previous blogs, I’ve mentioned the importance of making a good first impression on a potential client. Most of the time, the first contact will be over the telephone. Since we are often in session, it is very likely that the first time a client hears our voice is on our voicemail greeting. This is why a professional greeting is so important. Identify yourself because you need to reassure the client that they have called the correct number. Clients will be a lot less likely to leave a message if they wonder who will get it. Use a warm friendly voice to say something like, “You have reached xxxx, licensed mental health counselor.” Tell clients what to do if they are in crisis. Although it seems obvious to us, clients may not realize that it could be several hours until we can return their call. I suggest something like, “If you require immediate assistance, please dial 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.” Ask for what information you need. Yes, the obvious name and number, but if it would be helpful to get their insurance information, ask for that, too. Give clients an idea about when you’ll return their call. Common business practice is within 24 business hours. Any extra messages or information you’d like clients to know. For example, if you are no longer accepting a particular insurance plan, the end of your voicemail greeting is a great place to convey that information.

In 2011, I became a full-time sales coach and consultant. I push, challenge, and inspire top producing sales professionals to increase their income, manage their time, and love their career. I routinely help my clients achieve more than they thought was possible.
If you are going to be unavailable for a predetermined time, let people know. Example, if you are on vacation for the next two weeks, inform your callers in your greeting that you will be returning calls on such and such date. This way they expect it to take a couple of weeks before you get back to them instead of stewing over why you haven't returned their call. How To Create Professional Voicemail Greeting What Is A Voicemail Greeting How To Make A Voicemail For Your Business Close Project