Hello. You have reached the [Insert department name here] department at UNI. The office is closed from Thursday, Dec. 24, 2020 through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021. For information on our services, please visit our website at [Insert web address here]. If you require assistance prior to Jan. 4, please leave a message. This voice mail will be checked daily on Dec. 28, 29, 30 and 31. Return calls will be made as soon as possible. Our office will re-open on Monday, Jan. 4. Budget Business Operations Confidential Reporting Environmental Health & Safety Facilities Management Financial Accounting & Reporting Human Resource Services Public Safety Senior Vice President's Office UNI Bookstore University Sustainability Cedar Falls, Iowa (319) 273-2311 Maps & Directions Visiting UNI Contact UNI Safety Diversity Matters Sustainability Accessibility Free Speech@UNI Consumer Information Equal Opportunity/Non-Discrimination Statement Privacy Policy Maintained by Human Resource Services Copyright ©2021 Eastern Oregon University > Coronavirus Information > Archives > March 24, 2020 – Voicemail and phone instructions when working from home March 24, 2020 – Voicemail and phone instructions when working from home Voicemail and phone settings while working remotely
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.
