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.
As the COVID-19 coronavirus continues to affect businesses around the world, many offices are being forced to change their hours, reschedule appointments, and even send employees home to work.

There are two packages for your deskphone: the standard and the mobility package. To determine the correct directions to present to you, we'll need to know which package you have: Press the Phone button to view your main phone screen. Click the most similar image to your phone screen: Setting a Personal Greeting Press the Message button. Dial your password followed by the # button. Dial 4 to change user preferences. Dial 3 to record or change greetings. Dial 1 to change your personal greeting. After the tone, record a personal greeting and follow the prompts to re-record if needed. When you're satisfied with your greeting, press #. You now have a personal greeting enabled. Optional Greeting Recording and Activating an Optional Greeting
You have reached (Your Name) at (Your Business). I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to get to the phone. If you leave your name and number, I’ll return your call within one business day.