These days, most phone functions are for tweeting and texting, but what about leaving voicemail messages that get returned? Many people say they no longer check voicemail, or don’t listen to messages in full. They either tap “return call,” send a text, or find other channels to see what the person wanted.
Sometimes a little humor is the perfect tactic to break through a prospect's defenses and get them to call you back. This script adapted from Michael Freer will make your leads chuckle and be much more inclined to respond.
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1. Select the fixed key with the envelope graphic, or dial the phone’s phone number.
Remember, you need real-world situations to prepare for the sales game. Roleplay with colleagues and friends to get honest feedback on your voicemails.
To activate Visual Voicemail, dial 1217 from your iPhone and a recorded message will confirm it has been switched on. When a message is left in your voicemail mailbox, you'll see a notification against the ‘Phone’ widget on your iPhone. When you activate Visual Voicemail, your current personal greeting will carry over.
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.
If you’re attempting to return a recruiter’s call and reach their voicemail, leave a brief message with your name, number, what position you applied for, and the best time(s) to reach you. Read How to Leave a Professional Voicemail to make sure you’re leaving the kind of message that will get you a call back. HomeResumesInterviewsTips & TemplatesResume Review facebook twitter Instagram Pinterest
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You can also try leaving two voicemails. In other words, rather than leaving one 30-second message, record a 20-second voicemail -- then immediately call back and leave a 10-second one.
5. Change mailbox settings and greetings. Access voicemail. From the Main Menu, press 4 for Mailbox Settings. Press 3 for Greetings and follow the prompts. Set up sub-mailboxes.
I always end voicemails with my phone number. The reasoning? First, it's his cue to wrap up. It keeps him from rambling and gives the prospect a clear call to action: Call him back.
First-time sales outreach response is plummeting. According to sales strategist and author Jill Konrath, 97% of all business calls now go to voicemail.
Although it is okay to give a little bit of information, keep in mind the goal of your voicemail is to take the next steps in the conversation, and not to have the whole conversation then and there in your recording.
Having a reference sheet will help you stay focused while delivering your message. Make sure to keep your outline concise; only include the essential points that you intend to cover in your message.
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