Your voice is 38% of your overall message to the world according to UCLA’s Albert Mehrabian. An original voice – high, low, or in-between – can be your calling card. So when it comes to leaving a voice mail message, don’t sell yourself short.
Voice mail presents a huge opportunity to connect… but you only have seconds to make an impression.
Tonal quality, volume, clarity, grammar, and diction cannot be overstated. Articulate and enunciate clearly; project energy!
Try sitting upright or better yet, stand when leaving a message. Standing is better for your physical health and opens your vocal cords, and helps you better project. Pace if you want to, it helps relieve anxiety.
Before you leave a message, prepare. Craft a succinct introduction using hard-working words and word tracks. You have limited time before they hit “delete.”
Research the caller and customize your message to make the other person feel special, not like just the next person on your call list.
Ensure your surroundings are quiet and not distracting – no clattering keyboards, cell phones ringing, or people joking around in the background.
Extend a warm greeting, use their name, and identify yourself.
If you have a referral, mention them. Use inclusive and collaborative words whenever possible – us, we, let’s.
Use words such as “chat” or “get together” versus “meet” or “schedule.” You are courting relationships.
Say your telephone number slowly and always repeat it.
State the nature of your call and let them know what’s in it for them, i.e. “I have a marketing idea I want to run by you.” Or, “I’d like to work on your campaign.”
Reference anything you have gleaned from pre-research. Provide your website and leave your email address.
Follow-up each call with an email. Sending a follow-up email provides you with another opportunity to leave yet another impression of you and the “ABC” brand.
Connecting is the key. It can start or end with your voice.
To work with Ironstone or our affiliates, contact us at 1.800.917.8020, email us, complete our “contact us” form, or join the Ironstone – Financial Industry Professionals Practice Management Group on LinkedIn and start a discussion.
The foundation of our Performance Coaching and Consulting Programs are based on Ironstone’s Fundamental 4™, which is essential to design, develop, and sustain a successful business. Our ultimate goal is to help you avoid trial and error; shifting your mindset to launch your process of intentional change. [LEARN MORE]
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