Adrian Miller, founder of Adrian Miller Sales Training, is today's featured guest blogger at Snap Recordings. She begins our new series about small business strategies with tips on how to leave a voicemail message that gets heard and also gets a response!
Mastering the fine art of voicemail is a skill that’s necessary for the success of everyone in business. Who hasn’t winced at an incoherent and rambling voicemail of a colleague and wondered what they were saying? Leaving a lengthy, confusing, or downright incomprehensible recorded message is an all too common problem, and certainly not a smart way to acquire new business or maintain existing accounts. Fortunately, with a little practice, anyone can become a voicemail pro. Consider the following tips the next time you leave a voicemail and avoid having your message erased into oblivion.
Keep it short
The quicker you can get to the point of your call, the better off you will be. You’re far more likely to be listened to if your message is short and concise.
Include a benefit statement
Give a reason to call you back. A response is more plausible if you can communicate a clear benefit to your recipient.
Leave your name and contact information at both the beginning and end of the message
A fine-tuned voicemail message starts with the most pertinent information, including your name and phone number. If your recipient has to replay your message, your contact information will then be at the beginning, instead of just at the end.
Speak slowly enough for your recipient to understand your message and transcribe your phone number
The delivery is just as important as your content. Don’t make it difficult for your listener. Keep your speech slow and comprehensible.
Speak in a natural, pleasant, and professional tone
Your tone is important, as well. Be aware of your vocal pitch and articulation. If possible, replay your message and repeat, if necessary.
Rehearse your message
Not all voicemail systems have replay options. It’s always a good idea to rehearse your message before you even pick up the phone.
Escape from the voicemail loop
Whenever you can, locate a “live person” to obtain additional information about the firm, your decision maker’s whereabouts, schedules, and other useful tidbits. You might be surprised by what you learn while trying to leave a message.
Leave messages at “off times” of the day or night
Leaving a voicemail later in the evening helps to ensure that your message will be one of the very first heard the next day. Prospecting sales voicemails that are left during the busy middle of the day are often ignored.
Consider voicemail as your ally
The bottom line is that voicemail gives you an opportunity to get your message, spoken in your voice, into the ear of your decision-maker. Take advantage of this fact, and use your ability to leave an effective message to create new business opportunities.
Adrian Miller is the founder of Adrian Miller Sales Training and Adrian’s Network, a virtual business networking community that helps business professionals make contacts and connections. Follow her on Twitter: @AMST.
