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.
We’re all familiar with this type of voicemail greeting. Simply put, a caller reaches you by dialing your number or extension directly. For an optimal personal voicemail greeting, be clear about who you are, the team you’re on, and when the caller can expect a callback. Unlike company and department voicemail greetings, you may not be able to configure a greeting for open and closed business hours. If that’s the case, use a general voicemail greeting that accommodates both scenarios.

2.) Bienvenido/a a John Doe. Lo sentimos, está llamando fuera de nuestro horario de oficina. Nos puede contactar personalmente de lunes a viernes de 8:00h a 18:00h y los sábados de 9:00h a 16:00h. Por favor, deje un mensaje o envíe un correo electrónico a [email protected]. Contactaremos con usted lo antes posible. Gracias.
The process of recording the actual personal voicemail greeting depends on the type of device you are using. Some phones require calling a specific number and following a series of directions, while others may require pushing several different buttons to record your greeting. Consult the manual for your device for instructions on the proper recording method. If you still have difficulties figuring out how to record the greeting, contact the customer service number for your device. You might also Like Recommended bythewell February 2, 2014