Why do callers hang up on a messy welcome message?
Callers want to know quickly where they stand. A hurried or unclear message is like a digital reception with dimmed lights. It creates doubt. The caller wonders if their message will be received and when they will hear back. A calm, clear voice, however, immediately builds trust. It confirms the caller has reached the right place and sets clear expectations for what happens next.
What should you include in a good voicemail message?
A good message is clear, friendly, and concise. You don't need to tell a long story to sound professional. Just make sure your message includes these four elements:
- A friendly greeting and your company's name.
- The reason you can't answer, without going into too much detail.
- When you'll be available again or when you'll call back.
- A clear alternative for urgent matters, such as an email address or an emergency number.
How to record a message clearly and naturally yourself
When you record a message yourself, you often tend to speak faster than usual. As voice directors in the studio, we always share one very simple tip: breathe out calmly and smile before you speak your first sentence. You'll hear that smile straight away in the sound and warmth of your voice. Speak at a calm pace and take short pauses between sentences. This gives the listener time to take in important details, such as an email address, properly.