Essential Elements of Good Voice Mail Greetings
The Business Etiquette of Voice Mail Greetings
Voicemail greetings are simple things, and in a business, they can seem unimportant. However, a voice mail greeting gets a lot of play with customers and associates—think of how often you are unable to take a phone call because you're on another line, away from your desk or out of the office. Think of how often you've heard a voice mail greeting when calling coworkers, colleagues and other business contacts.
Voice mail greetings set a tone for how callers will perceive you and your company and are subtle and easy ways to foster positive business relationships. Upbeat messages that are short and to the point are best. And don't rush through your message. Be efficient but relaxed and take your time.
A Short, Upbeat Greeting
Start your voice mail greeting with a short "Hello" or "Welcome to the XYZ Company." Don't use phrases like "your call is very important to us" and the like. These have become overused and may be perceived as insincere. They make your message long and a waste of the caller's time.
Your Company Name and/or Department Name
Stating your company name and your department will let the caller know they've reached the right place—especially if they went through a series of automated attendant prompts or a phone system directory of employees or departments. This is especially important for external voicemail greetings. It may be skipped for internal calls.