It’s 2013. Do we still need to talk about voicemail messages on cell phones? When was the last time you checked your inbox? When was the last time you left a message??
But when was the last time you heard someone else’s voicemail message? Chances are, it’s a lot more recently than the last time you listened to a message someone left you, or you even left a message. Why? Well, how do you know someone is unavailable to take your call when they don’t answer the phone? Their voicemail picks up.
And that’s the key: Even if you don’t think clients and prospects are leaving you voicemail messages, if you’re ever unable to answer the phone, Someone is listening to at least part of your voicemail message. Which is why a professional voicemail greeting is the way to go.
There are two schools of thought for your voicemail greetings – do it yourself or professional recordings.
Do-it-yourself voicemail greetings
Most people have recorded their own voicemail message at some point, but here’s our 6-step method for recording your own
1. Review your current message and make note of areas that need improvement
2. Write out your voicemail greeting script. You might want to include your name (and extension, if applicable), your company’s name, when you expect to return calls, and maybe email if you prefer to be contacted that way. Keep it short
3. Rehearse your script by reading it out loud a few times. Try recording it on your phone’s voice memo app and playing it back to your self.
4. Revise your script, based on your rehearsal.
5. Record yourself reading the script. Be yourself, speak naturally, and smile.
6. Repeat the process – review the voicemail you’ve recorded, revise, and re-record until it sounds right.
Professionally Recorded Voicemail Greetings
The process of using a voicemail greeting recorded by a professional voice talent is somewhat easier. You’ll still want to review your current message and write your script, but you can submit your script to be recorded and edited and upload the file to your phone system when it’s finished. There are many reasons to use a professionally recorded voicemail greeting, including showing attention to detail, ensuring high-quality audio,
How does your voicemail greeting sound? Is it time for a facelift? Let us know in the comments