How to make your messages more meaningful and improve communication.
When you make a call and get voicemail – don’t just leave a garbled message as you rapidly try to think of something to say.
Be prepared.
Speak slowly and clearly. If you leave a number repeat it. It’s often difficult to write down a number in one go, especially if the caller rapidly rattles off their number. Repeating it gives them a better chance of getting it right first time.
State the nature of your call – if appropriate. What are you calling about, what information do you need?
Say when you’re available or when it’s a good time to call back. People will often leave a message just as they’re going out – usually as a last minute, ‘oops must do this before I leave’. When the call is returned the person isn’t there and you end up playing phone-tag.
If you’re going to be away from the phone or are busy – say so in your message and say when you’ll be back, so they don’t waste their time or yours.
Share on Social
Take our Free Time Quiz
Find out how to make your life easier – from TODAY
I'm a Time Management and Productivity Coach and the Author of "Time Management For Dummies". Together we'll work to change, improve and adjust. Create a positive impact on your working environment, your team, your colleagues, your family and friends.
Be more productive and efficient.
Reduce your working hours.
No longer work late in the evening or at weekends.
Have a better balance between your work and personal life.
Reduce and manage your stress
Enjoy your work and life more
Free Time Quiz
How Good Are Your Time Management Habits? Find out how and where you can make a few quick and easy changes to make your life easier starting TODAY.