Effective Voice Messages

Seven Steps to Use Voicemail as a Sales Tool

Aug 27, 2008 Anthony Vultaggio

Traditional businesses rely on phone contact for building relationships. In today's busy world you need to know how to use voice mail as an effective business tool.

The telephone is an integral part of business dealings, especially sales. In today's fast-paced world, knowing the right way to use voicemail can mean the difference between success and disaster. Employ these seven secrets to voicemail success and you'll be rewarded for your efforts to connect with a return call.

Rule #1 Speak Clearly When Leaving Voice Mail Messages

When people listen to voicemail messages there are often a multitude of distractions swirling about. That's why it is essential that you be clear. While you might be familiar with your own name, don't assume others are. When you leave a message say your name slowly and clearly. In fact, it's recommended that you leave a distinct pause between your first and last name so that the listener isn't confused. This may feel awkward at first but with some practice you'll find it becomes second nature.

Rule #2 Identify Your Business During the Message

This isn't an issue if you work for Ford or AT&T, or even Joe's Garage. However, if your business name does not offer a description of your business (and you're not yet a household brand), be sure to offer compelling descriptors that tell folks what you really do.

Rule #3 Tell 'Em Why You're Calling At Least Once in Every Message

Many sales people are under the mistaken impression that keeping the reason for their call a secret is a compelling reason for the prospect to call back. They're wrong. While the mystique may have worked two decades ago, today's customers are smarter and frankly, don't have the time to play games. Plan your message before you place your call. Use a clear benefit statement that tells them why they'd want to take the time to call you back.

Rule #4 Connect the Dots During the Voice Mail

If you've met before, have a common associate or were referred by another person or company, tell them. Give them a reason to want to connect. Don't expect them to hear your name and remember that you met at a seminar that you attended with your sister's husband's cousin's business partner. Be specific about your personal connection and you'll have given them one more reason to call you.

Rule #5 Tell Them When to Call You Back In Your Message

If you're effectively managing your time then you schedule time for outbound calls everyday. Leave a message that includes a safe time for people to return your call so you don't get stuck in a never-ending loop of voicemails.

Rule #6 Say It Again, Sam -- Repeat Your Contact Information At Least Twice in Every Message

When you leave your message be sure to leave your name and phone number at the beginning and end of the message. If they missed it at the beginning they will hear it at the end and your chances of being called back increase dramatically. Remember to say those key details slow enough so they can write down this important information.

Rule #7 Have Fun When Leaving Messages

With the benefit of the sense of sight, your message must compel another person to act. Successful telemarketers are like radio personalities ... They transfer enthusiasm with just their voice. Some pace, some sit up straight and all smile. To improve your technique try recording yourself speaking while you're slumped in a chair and listen to the outcome. Next record the same message with a smile while sittiing up straight or standing.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't expect these techniques to be second nature on your second call. Practice, practice, ... Now dial!

PS If you want to Improve Your Cold Calling Skills be sure to check out my article on that subject!

The copyright of the article Effective Voice Messages in Business Management is owned by Anthony Vultaggio. Permission to republish Effective Voice Messages in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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