Feeling gated by Voicemail? Here are 10 ways to turn voicemail into opportunities to get to decision makers.
Everyone is in sales in one way or another, especially if you own your own business. Don’t get frustrated with voicemail. If you do need to leave a message in voicemail, here is how to use voicemail to your advantage.
1. Think about what you are going to say ahead of time in case you get voicemail. Keep it brief and to the point. Everyone is busy and no one likes a rambling message.
2. The best days to leave make sales calls or leave a voicemail are Tuesday through Thursday. Monday’s are always busy with preparations for the week and Friday’s we all want to get out of the office.
3. You should keep in mind that calling is all in the timing. Earlier is better, but in some cases later in the day when people are out of meetings may work best.
4. If you need to leave a message, make the best of it, by introducing yourself , but the key is to be personable by linking your message to something of interest to the person you are calling.
5. Don’t leave information in full this could make them make a decision not to bother returning your call. Instead give them a call to action that will catch their attention or create a reason for them to call you back.
6. When leaving a message remember to repeat your phone number at least twice.
7. Do not ask them to call you back, in fact this gives them the opportunity to ignore you.
8. Don’t tell them when you will call back, this is another opportunity to be ignored.
9. Do not leave your website address, yet another way they may decide not to call you back. Wait until you actually make contact to share this info.
10. When leaving a message, repeat the person’s name first name at least twice. Using their proper names gives a red flag as a sales call. Keep it more personal. If this is a referral, make sure to mention who referred you in the message.
Break the barrier of voicemail by being more personal message not a sales message. Give them a reason to call you back and want to find out more. Voicemail can work to your advantage if you know how to leave a personal message that is upbeat and creative. Remember, even if you left a voicemail, it is your responsibility to call back to connect to the person directly. Use your voicemail as an opportunity to open the door to that next phone call.
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