The basic rule of thumb is that callers should hear one of two things when they first connect with your voicemail — either an apology for not being able to answer the call or a “thank you” for having called. You can do both if you prefer, but keep it short and to the point.
Assign the number you want to forward calls to. If you have chosen Always Forward Calls, click Save.
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Take the time to listen to calls, call back if necessary, use your cell phone when you’re out of town, and take care of anything actionable listed in the messages instead of watching your mailbox fill in. This kind of attention to detail can go a long way towards building a good reputation and image for the business. Good luck! Voicemail Perfect for Professionals that Manage Multiple Businesses
While this information can be tucked behind a phone menu option, it's best to state it upfront in your after hours recording. This way, callers can decide whether to call back at a better time, or leave a voicemail message.
Once this has been set, select the Destination drop down for your open event, then select Queues and New Queue
9. Holiday Closures. Thank you for calling [Company Name]; we are currently closed in observance of [holiday name]. We will return on [Date] at 8 AM Eastern Time.
You have reached [your name] at [your company]. ...You've reached [your name] at [your company]. ...Thank you for calling. ...Thank you for calling. ...Hi, you've reached [your name] at [your company]. ...Hi, thank you for calling me. ...Hey, this is [your name]. ...Hi, you've reached the voicemail of [your name] at [your company]. ...Hello. ...
In a concise fashion, you should relate the hours your business functions, and note any potential conflicts such as holidays or business closures. Use an auto attendant if you have more than one menu option for the customer, such as a voicemail box and an emergency support line.
For When to Forward or When Not to Forward, select a Business Schedule and Holiday Schedule from the drop-down menu. 10
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.
42. Hi, you’ve reached [X company]. Our team is currently out of the office or assisting other customers. Leave your name, number, and a brief message so we can direct your call to the proper team member when we return.
Most callers expect their call to be answered. Once they realize that your office is currently closed, the most important piece of information they probably want to know is your standard business hours.
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Standard:The standard greeting is the default greeting enabled on all UB voicemaill boxesRecord a greeting to customize the message callers hear when they reach your voicemailAlternate:The alternate greeting can be easily enabled or disabled from the Setup Options menu, or from the Personal Communications AssistantChoose a date and time to end this greeting, without replacing your standard greetingRecord and activate this greeting for callers to hear a temporary message, such as when you are out of the office or need to leave an important announcement
While missed calls aren’t ideal, you can let your caller know you’re still there for them by having a great voicemail greeting. The best business voicemail greetings let your customers (and potential customers) know why you’re not available and how they can best get in contact with your business. They are also short and to the point. You usually want to keep your greeting between 6 and 24 seconds long so callers don’t hang up halfway through.
You have reached our general company mailbox. No one is available to take your call at the moment, but please leave your name, telephone number, and a brief message, and someone will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you and have a great day.
Thank you for calling [Company Name]; we are currently closed in observance of [holiday name]. We will return on [Date] at 8 AM Eastern Time. If you would like to reach our Dial by Name Directory, please press 1. To leave a voicemail, please press 2. A representative will contact you upon our return. To repeat this menu, please press the # key. [If no response after a few seconds] Goodbye. Voicemail Greeting