How to Avoid the 6 Worst Voicemail Mistakes
Some voicemail messages are almost unbelievable. You may have received some of these unbelievable messages; like the person who is eating while leaving the message. Or someone who is chewing gum. Not sure which is worse. Then, one of the worst: A sales rep making a cold call who actually yawned while stating his voicemail message. Here are six more voicemail mistakes.
1.) Leaving only a name and number for a call back.
Some may think that not leaving a company name is an attention getter. But if the prospect returns the call and realizes it is a salesperson trying to sell something, this tactic will leave a negative impression.
When leaving a message on voice mail, be sure it offers a hint of a benefit/result that sparks curiosity, but does not talk about your products or services.
2.) Saying “I’m calling to introduce myself.”
They don’t care and don’t have time to be introduced to every Mary, Kevin and Harry who calls.
3.) Making the call all about YOUR products and services.
Self-serving voice mail messages do not work. Prospects want to hear how they may benefit by calling you back.4.) Leaving a message lasting longer than 30 seconds.
Most busy executives will listen only to the first two sentences before they erase you.
They have their finger hovering over the delete key as they listen to voice mail messages.5.) Using filler words like “um” and “uh.”
In addition to sounding unprofessional, filler words detract from your message.
6.) Making a call without a written plan for what you will say if you reach voice mail. A little preparation can lead to being heard and getting results.
You dramatically increase the likelihood that your calls will get returned when you leave a concise, rehearsed message with a bright and energetic voice. Think about the point you want to make and write a few key words. Limit the points to one or two per message.
Don’t Get Deleted
The best way to actually get a call back (and not annoy the person you are calling) is to clearly state your telephone number right after your name and company name at the beginning of your message. Then leave a brief message and at the end of your message, state your telephone number and extension number again – clearly.
Most busy executives will listen only to the first two sentences before they delete you.
Did you know there are four compelling ways to motivate prospects to return your calls?
You will learn how in my newest e-book Voice Mail Tips and Scripts.
What is the worst voice mail message you have received? Post a comment below. I would love to hear from you!
About The Author
Ann Barr is a telesales marketing success coach with a passion for teaching. She loves helping people who are starting out in new telesales careers and working with experienced sales reps who are looking for new ideas and tips. In addition to presenting monthly e-classes, she writes and edits direct-mail marketing letters and emails for clients. Sign up today for Ann’s free Weekly Sales Tips and get marketing tips and ideas to increase your sales!
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[...] Find out how to avoid the 6 worst voice mail mistakes. About The AuthorAnn Barr is a telesales marketing success coach with a passion for teaching. She loves helping people who are starting out in new telesales careers and working with experienced sales reps who are looking for new ideas and tips. In addition to presenting monthly e-classes, she writes and edits direct-mail marketing letters and emails for clients. Sign up today for Ann’s free Weekly Sales Tips and get marketing tips and ideas to increase your sales! [...]
A very good marketing strategy is very important in promoting your products both online and offline.`~*
You are right, Christopher. Thank you for visiting the blog. Come back again soon!
Ann
Your blog is so nice, I like it.
Thank you. I appreciate your comment!
hello, thank for this latest information. Therefore, I would like to ask for your permission to add some of this information in my blog. Of course, I will provide a link to your website, as a source of my mentioned information.
Hi Noe, glad you like the information. Yes – you can add some of these posts on your blog, providing you include a link to http://www.sellingsupplies.com
Heya¡my very first comment on your site. ,I have been reading your blog for a while and thought I would completely pop in and drop a friendly note. . It is great stuff indeed. I also wanted to ask..is there a way to subscribe to your site via email?
Hello Phil, thank you for your comment! Yes, you can subscribe to my emails on this page, at the top right-hand side where you see “free weekly newsletter and e-book.” Or you can visit http://www.annbarrblog.com and subscribe on that page.
Ann, Thanks for all the helpful tips and information you share about selling supplies. You continue to be a key to my success.
Thank You!
Victoria
The Swenson Group, California
Victoria, thank you for your comment. I’m glad you are finding the information useful. YOU are the key to your success. Let me know if you have questions. I will be happy to help you.
Ann