First-time sales outreach response is plummeting. According to Jill Konrath, 97% of all business calls now go to voicemail.
It's never been more important for salespeople to be good at leaving voicemails. Not only that, but voicemail can -- and should -- be measured, coached, and improved.
Through personal experience and research, I’ve been able to identify the most effective voicemail script -- along with the keys to implementing it -- so you leave voicemails that generate an incredible response every time.
Voicemail Script
Hello, this is [Your Name] from [Company Name].
I'm calling because [insert reason for calling]. I'd love to talk to you about [insert benefit you can offer if they call back].
My number is [insert phone number]. I'll also follow up with an email tomorrow. I look forward to hearing what you think.
Have a great day. Goodbye!
Protect your script from becoming wooden with repetition. Instead, use bullet points to stay on track while keeping your tone and delivery casual.
The key to making a bullet-pointed script work is to practice. You can't read it line-for-line, so it's important to work out the kinks before you place your call.
Here are my effective voicemail script bullets:
- Your name
- Reason for calling
- Benefit of calling you back
- Your contact information
- Promise of a follow-up email
To see these script bullets in action, I've outlined a scenario below:
"Hello, Amy. This is Don with Marketers Plus.
I'm calling because you downloaded our guide to building successful holiday marketing campaigns, and I have a case study you might find valubale. It's all about how Company B raised holiday email open rates by 25% and saw a 10% increase in revenue using Marketers Plus.
If you'd like to learn more, my number is 123-456-7890. I'll also follow up with an email containing the case study. I look forward to hearing what you think. Have a great day."
This voicemail is simple, packed with value, and straightforward. It also sets the tone for what doing business with you is like. But delivery is everything. So, take a look at these tips for implementing your voicemail script like a pro.
4 Tips for Implementing Your Voicemail Script Perfectly
Tip 1. Practice
If you want to improve your voicemail performance, get deliberate in your practice. This means creating a highly structured practice routine that offers ample opportunity for repetition and immediate feedback.
This sales voicemail practice consists of three phases: before, during, and after.
Before you dial
Before you make any calls, start with setting a goal for your voicemails that day. Will you be working on your tone? Your passion? The length of the message? Whatever it is, decide how to accomplish that goal by developing specific, technique-oriented plans.
While leaving the message
During voicemails, focus on execution in the moment. This process, called metacognition, enables you to mentally observe your own process from the outside. Develop this skill and you will be able to react to changing conditions quickly, in addition to improving your voicemail skills.