In today’s world of cell phones and caller ID… it’s getting harder and harder to get people to pick up the phone or return your calls. So what do you do?
While your voicemail will not sell a product, neither should your first one-on-one meeting with the client. It is simply part of the process. It can move you closer to a sale… much closer to a sale… if you use it right.
Here are 5 Tips to leaving an Effective voicemail:
- Don’t just introduce yourself or worse yet try to sell your product or service. DO…
- Let them know about an article they might find interesting on your website
- Leave them with a funny or interesting fact (think Snapple Tea caps)
- Let them know about a mutual acquaintance you have
- About an offer for a free book you have for them
- Or, tie a hot, current news item as to why you want to talk to them (this is an extremely effective message).
- Know EXACTLY what you are going to say! Don’t wing it… there is nothing worse than rambling on and then regretting your message. Remember, you can’t pull that message back. And keep it brief… 1-minute or less.
- Give them options to respond. Give them the option of calling back or going to your website to respond (you can even leave your email if it is short and simple).
- Please speak clearly… slowly… and repeat your contact info!
- Let them know that you’ll keep trying to contact them but give them an easy out if they don’t want you to continue. Inject a bit of humor here if you’ve already contacted them a few times. Also, keep track of who you’ve left messages for and don’t contact them more than once or twice a week.