Your telephone is your most important marketing tool. It allows you to connect one-on-one with potential clients.
However, you should not be treating your answering machine as your receptionist. It is not interactive with clients.
You have the ability to project confidence, knowledge and skill as you speak in person to someone. An answering machine message cannot effectively project your personality and skill. Nor can it generate the same level of consumer confidence, because it isn’t interactive.
Existing clients may leave a message, but, rarely will a potential client do so. Consumers want to speak to someone who can immediately answer their questions. They are motivated at the time of the call, but may lose interest or begin to doubt or question their choice if they cannot speak to someone while the interest is fresh. They will move on to your competitor who DOES anwer the call in person.
A caller may only want to make inquiries about prices and services. Or they may have a simple question. They may have a personal, confidential question or embarrassing health concern. In any case, had you been able to answer the questions in person, you might have gotten the sale.
Treat your answering machine as an advertising medium. Let it make sales for you! Use it to answer frequently asked questions. Erase any issues in the prospective client's mind and make them still want to call back and do business with you in spit of your absence.
The following is an example of an effective recorded message. It provides consumers with information that allows them to feel more comfortable leaving a message, and enticing message about your services, and an incentive to call back at a time that is convenient for you.
"Thank you for calling "Massage by Jane."
I offer soothing Sports and Deep Tissue Therapeutic Massage, Craniosacral Therapy, and a variety of effective Energy Therapies with evening and weekend appointments available to suit your schedule.
I am sorry no one is available to take your call at this time. I may be on another line, or with a client.
But, your call is important to me. So, please feel free to leave a message and I happily answer any of your questions without obligation, as soon as I am available.
If you would prefer to speak to me in person, I can be reached in person weekdays between the hours of 5 PM and 7 PM.
I look forward to speaking with you. Have a lovely day."
This message clearly conveys your type of business, identifies key information, such as when you are available, and provides options for the caller. Callers will feel more at ease and confident that you are ready and willing to help them. ~~
Learn more in CAM Professionals' Guide to Attracting Clients
