How to Leave Voicemail Messages
Leaving voicemail or telephone messages is surprisingly difficult.
Most people start strong, then ramble on, get flustered, but keep going anyway, until they leave an embarrassingly long and boring message.
The trick is to practice what you’re going to say before you pick up the phone. Then, it’s much easier!
Whether you need to leave messages at work, with family or friends, or even with strangers, it’s always best to have in mind exactly what you want to say. Here are some examples:
CALLS TO WORK
For work, it’s especially important to sound like you know what you’re talking about, so practice what you’re going to say at least a couple of times before you make the call. Also, keep it short because—not only are people busy at work—the more you talk, the more you might say something that will hurt you later. Script something like this:
Calling in sick: “Hi. This is Sonny Kim. I’m at home sick today. Thanks. Bye.”
Letting them know you’ll be late: “Hi. This is Sonny Kim. I have a doctor’s appointment this morning and will be in around 1:00 p.m. Thanks. Bye.”
“Hi. This is Sonny Kim. Please let me know of any important developments today. I’ll check my cell phone for your calls often. Thank you. Goodbye.”
“Hi. This is Sonny Kim. Could you please make sure the XYZ report is delivered today? Give me a call if you have any problems. Thank you. Goodbye.”
CALLS TO FRIENDS OR FAMILY
Messages for friends or family can be much more casual and can be longer. But, it’s still a good idea to keep it short and sweet.
“Hi, Chris. This is Sonny. What’s going on? I’m just calling to see what you’re doing. It’s been a long time. Give me a call when you have some time to talk. Bye!”
“Hi, Tom. This is Sonny. I was wondering if I could borrow your power drill for some repairs I’m doing around the house. I sure would appreciate it. Thanks. Bye.”
“Hi, Kevin. This is Sonny. I’m so sorry but I have to cancel for lunch tomorrow. I’ll explain later. I promise to make it up to you by treating you to lunch next week. Thanks for understanding. Bye.”
“Hi, Jill. This is Sonny. Can you please call me as soon as you get this message? I really need your help with something. Thanks! Bye.”
“Hi, Max. I wanted to thank you for a great party and also invite you to one that we’re having next month. It’s on February 14 at 7 P.M. at our house. The theme is Valentine’s Day. I hope you can make it. Let me know. Thanks. Bye.”
“Hi, Teri. This is Sam. We met at the party in Hollywood two nights ago. I had a great time with you. Give me a call if you still want to get some coffee or drinks. My number is (123) 456-7890.”
CALLS TO NEW PEOPLE
When leaving messages for people who do not know you or your telephone number, be sure to say your name and number clearly and slowly.
“Hi. My name is Sonny Kim. Matt Fong gave me your number. He said you’re great at teaching Spanish. My teenaged daughter needs a tutor. Please give me a call if you’re interested. My number is (123) 456-7890. Thanks. Bye.”
“Hi. My name is Sonny Kim, and I’m calling about your ad in the paper for a room to rent. My number is (123) 456-7890. Thank you. Bye.”
“Hi. My name is Sonny Kim. I’m looking for a new dentist, and I saw your TV commercial. I’d like to make an appointment next Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. Please let me know if that’s possible. My number is (123) 456-7890. Thank you. Bye.”
CONCLUSION
If you keep your voicemail messages polite, clear, and brief, people will be glad to get them and more likely to call you back quickly. Be awesome! Be your own hero!
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