Finding a quiet place with good reception where you won’t be interrupted ensures that when you speak, you will be clearly heard; it also removes background noises from the equation, entirely.
Splitting your message into two parts has a couple of benefits. First, it makes you more memorable. Second, you seem less rehearsed. If you're reciting from a script, you're probably not going to forget a key component. Prospects will automatically trust you more.
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So with that being said, a simple message such as this may be just what you’re looking for:
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6.) Don’t miss the opportunity to leave a specific message. There’s nothing more frustrating than listening to a voicemail that basically says, “Hi, it’s me. Call when you can!” Even if you’re just calling to say hi, make that your phone message. “Hi, Barbara! It’s Maralee! I haven’t heard your voice in too long, and I wanted to touch base and say hi. I’ll give you a call tonight at 8:00 your time. I hope we can chat then. Stay warm in Michigan. I heard about the storms.”
When you get this message, please call me back at (your number). That number again is (your number) and ask for _________. I look forward to speaking with you, and I guarantee you’ll be glad you returned this call.”
To set up your voicemail, press *98, *68, or #55 (varies by location) from your home phone or call the retrieval number you received with your welcome letter. Voice prompts will guide you through the rest of the steps.
Now that you know which script to use, how do you record it? Depending on your budget and the resources available to you, you can record the script yourself, use a text-to-speech program, or hire a professional voice actor to record your greeting.
On Air Recordings started providing recording services in 1992. Their service is pretty simple and straightforward: You choose the voice actor you like, then upload your voicemail script. The voice artist records your project and then you download it. Need guidance on your script, tone, and structure? They have services for that too.
Hey can I ask you something…. – What’s your experience with leaving voicemail messages? Do you have any funny stories to share? Leaving voicemail messages is one of those things that if possible, we’d avoid it. It’s just scary for an English learner, isn’t it? To leave a voicemail message… knowing that you have to keep your messages short, speak loud and clear and sound confident. Too many things to think about! Ok today, we are going to tackle this fear once and for all. I’ll get back to you after this jingle – Go!
Consider leaving your e-mail in addition to your phone number. People like choices. Some people like to have conversations on the phone, while others prefer communicating through e-mail. You don’t know what kind of person your listener will be, so leave the option on the table. For many, e-mail correspondence is less threatening and might actually encourage them to reach out to you. Podcast #743 How to Get Time, Priorities, and Energy Working in Your Favor Podcast #742 The Power of Talking to Strangers Podcast #741 The Exercise Prescription for Depression and Anxiety Podcast #740 Life’s 10 Biggest Decisions How to Find Studs in a Wall How to Take a Punch (To Minimize Its Damage) Podcast #739: Rewild Your Life Everything You Didn’t Know About the Trusty Tape Measure
5. On your dial pad, press “1” to listen to your messages, the most recent message should play first.
Clearly state your purpose and next steps. Whether it’s a demo, an appointment, or the best contact to talk to, simply ask for it.
9. Update Your Greeting Frequently. Many of the things that can make your voicemail great, also require that you update it pretty regularly. Information like deals you’re running, when you’re away, and who to contact while you’re out can take your greeting to the next level, but they’re obviously time sensitive.
6. "Hi, this is [your name]. I'm either on a call or away from my desk. Please leave your name, number, and a brief message and I'll get back to you. Thank you."
Tip: If you’re not sure how to leave a good voicemail, check out the most effective voicemail script ever and how to end a voicemail that keeps the sales conversation open.
Following these tips of voicemail etiquette and voicemail structure are a sure-fire way to give you a professional edge in your job hunt and throughout your professional career. By having a strong voicemail template to follow you can be sure that when you call your voice(mail) will be heard. I’ve Submitted My Application, Now What? Phone Call, Email, or Meeting? What’s the Best Method to Send My Message? Five Rules of Professional Phone Call Etiquette Is Your Email Address Sending the Right Message?