Approach voicemails with a scientific outlook, and score each one. Create a score sheet with a rating system that addresses the following: Would you save that voicemail? Would you return that call? Would you return that call right away? Are you missing the basics (alternative phone number, optimal ways to get in touch, a fallback person to call)? Did you craft it or wing it?
OK, so I followed all the instructions that came with the machine. I pressed all the necessary buttons. So… now what? I… am… so… confused. Could you please… beep.
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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.
In your email mention that you are following up with your voicemail; that level of synergy, communication and integrity is sure to wow any professional and leave them with the impression you do what you say you’re going to do and you are organized.
17. "Hello! You've gotten the voicemail of [your name]. Leave your name, contact info, and the answer to the eternal question ‘Which came first, the chicken or the egg?' Anyone who gets it right will receive a call back."
The Right Way to Leave a Voicemail 1. Assess your surroundings 2. Prepare a brief outline 3. State your name and telephone number 4. Identify your purpose for calling 5. Speak in a confident, respectful tone 6. Remain brief 7. Briefly restate your point and contact information
“Congratulations! You’ve reached the right person! It’s [your name]. Unfortunately, you’ve called at the wrong time. Please leave a message with all your contact information, and I’ll call you back within 24 hours.”
(Follow-up call = you’ve spoken before, made some progress through the sales process and a follow-up call was required)
Here I'm referring to lines such as "Please call me back" or "I'll check in again on X date." Because they're generic, these asks don't increase the buyer's feeling of responsibility. Instead, I suggest posing your specific question and ending the call there.
Do me a favor when you get this message and please give me call a back at (your number). That number again is area code (your number). I look forward speaking with you.”
Sticking with our "Andy Applicant" example, if Andy had left Hannah Hiring Manager a voicemail of, “It’s me and I would like to talk to you.” She will not know who Andy is nor what Andy wants to talk about. Effectively she will be answering Andy’s questions on the spot the whole time after she figures out how to get in touch with him. What if she forgets to mention something?
Thank you for calling [LinkedPhone]. Due to the current pandemic, our team members are working remotely and are available [Monday through Friday from 9am to 7pm Eastern Standard Time]. Please leave a message with your name, number, and how we can serve you. We will respond as promptly as possible. Thank you for your patience during this unprecedented time. Let’s get through this together. Stay safe and well.
Nobody wants to listen to a long-winded voicemail. Keep your greeting short, simple, and concise. A voicemail message should pique a client’s interest and leave them looking forward to your call. Stick to the basics, explaining your company name, hours of operation, and when to expect a callback.
Press one if you’d like to leave a message. I’ll be glad to return your call as soon as I can. Right. And Santa will bring you toys if you’re a good little boy.
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Editor's note: This post was originally published in 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. Sales Voicemails 25 Professional Voicemail Greetings to Help You Record the Perfect One Sales | 7 min read
An excellent business voicemail greeting conveys your level of professionalism and competence while also providing your callers with a glimpse into your company’s culture and level of care. As minor as it may seem, your voicemail greeting can instill confidence and trust in your callers or it can be a cause for concern.