The phone can be your friend or your foe depending on how you use it.  Does the fear of calling someone make you pray for the voice mail or answering machine to pick up? Do you stumble around when you do get that voice mail?

Is leaving that message really worth it if you are getting no response?  Are you leaving a compelling enough message to get that call back you so desire?

We all have had this happen many times.  In fact, I just messed up a voice message today that made me want to kick myself.  The voice mail picks up and we start rambling. “My name is Jane and I am with XXX Company and I was wondering if you would be interested in XXX product or booking a party.  We have these great hostess gifts and programs” …. and blah, blah, blah…. What you end up doing is trying to sell on a voice message.  Don’t do it!  Control yourself!

If you can possibly manage not leaving a voice mail at all, don’t.  Keep calling back until you reach the person you want to talk to.  Yes, it may take a few calls or even many calls, but in the long run it is worth it.  How many messages can you leave without sounding desperate, or stalker like?  Do you think that your listener saves it to call you back at another time or simply deletes it?

If you simply must leave a message, make sure it is compelling and even a bit mysterious enough to make them want to call you back.  If you client knows you, then you can leave a tiny tidbit about why you are calling.  If you are making customer service calls, a simple message will suffice.  If you do not know the person, mention how you got their number especially if it is by referral.  “So and So gave me your number. When you have a moment, return my call at xxxx.”

Take the time to even script a generic message or two so that you don’t stumble and fumble around.  You will increase the chances of that person actually returning your call.

Copyright Chris Carroll All Rights Reserved

Chris Carroll is a sales professional that has made direct sales her business of choice and enjoys sharing with others. You can sign up for tips on managing and increasing your business at her site http://DirectSalesTalkradio.com/blog You can also find her at her business site http://ShopOnYourSeat.com 

Last 5 posts by Chris Carroll

• Are Your Recruits Burning Up Your Time? - June 8th, 2009
• What Really IS a Fundraiser? - June 1st, 2009
• 7 Ways to Keep Those Customers Coming Back For More - May 30th, 2009
• 7 Tips to be an Effective Direct Sales Leader - May 30th, 2009
• Maximize Your Training - May 30th, 2009

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Tags: Business - Direct Sales, Customer service, phone tips