· It’s likely that your phone doesn’t support disabling call-forwarding if you’re unable to find the option.
When opening your voicemail, start with a professional or generic greeting like, “Hello” or “Good Morning”. Be sure to clearly state your name, who you are/where you’re from, and (where applicable) how you got their contact information.
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In today’s world of gadgets and gizmos, virtual communication has blurred the lines between casual jargon and professional communication. By following these tips for leaving a professional voicemail message, you will be sure to present yourself in the best light.
One of the fastest ways to derail the cohesiveness of your voicemail is to skip the introduction altogether and jump right into the body of your message; skipping the greeting is sure to leave your listener confused about who you are and why you are calling them.
For a downloadable Quick Reference Guide to the voicemail phone menu, click here.
Nobody wants to play phone tag. Skip the back and forth by explicitly telling the caller to leave their name, number, and the best day(s) and time(s) to reach them. Your clients will appreciate you not wanting to waste their time.
Please leave your name, phone number, and the reason you’re contacting us, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you. Hey, this is [your name] at [X company]. I'm either on a call or away from my desk. Please leave your name, phone number, and a short message and I'll be sure to return your call.
Yes, you can make an email personalized, too. But voicemail is already much more personal than an email, and your level of customization should rise to meet that. Plus, if you’ve spoken with the contact in the past, there’s an even bigger opportunity to build on what you already know and cater the message to them.
"Hello, this is [Your Name] from [Your Company Name]. I'm calling because [insert reason for calling]. I'd love to talk to you about [insert benefit you can offer if they call back]. My number is [insert phone number]. I'll also follow up with an email tomorrow. I look forward to hearing what you think. Have a great day. Goodbye!"
When leaving a voicemail, hanging up sends it. Here’s how it works: after the beep, the automated system on the other end starts recording all input from your end into an audio file. That audio file is then registered as a new “voicemail” for the intended recipient.
Be sure to include all important details, like why you are calling, your contact number, your name and anything else that’s necessary. If you are following up a previous voicemail, say so. If you had been confusing in the previous voicemail, apologize and proceed with your message.
The following sample voicemail messages will help you to use this form of communication effectively, whether you are leaving a message for someone to return your call or recording a greeting for people trying to contact you.
To some extent, we all have a “phone voice”. But there are phone voices and then there are PHONE VOICES. We’ve all gotten a voicemail from the stiff, ultra-peppy, overly rehearsed cheerleader; it doesn’t sit well with you, right?
Find a piece of connective tissue, such as an alma mater, a favorite sports team, or a common pet (I’m a dog lover, personally). This opens the conversation and shows that you’ve done your research.
In certain situations, it’s a good idea to let a call go to voicemail. If you’re in a loud area, unable to spend 10-15 minutes talking, or are otherwise distracted, don’t answer. Recruiters who cold-call candidates will understand that you’re simply unavailable – but make sure to return calls in a timely manner. If possible, call back during regular business hours.
The other day, I was leaving a message, and the voicemail system cut me off. It seems I exceeded my 90 seconds of allotted time. No, I didn’t call back. I figured the man got the gist of the message, so I left the ball in his court.
The other day, I was leaving a message, and the voicemail system cut me off. It seems I exceeded my 90 seconds of allotted time. No, I didn’t call back. I figured the man got the gist of the message, so I left the ball in his court.