I called a friend of mine the other day at work. While I didn’t get him live, I got something much better: His voicemail! Normally I would much prefer to reach the person I’m calling, but Bruce’s message was so great from a branding perspective, that I have found a new tactic for all of my clients.
Bruce works for a company that requires that all employee voicemail messages follow this script:
Thank you for calling COMPANY NAME, a company of PARENT COMPANY NAME. You have reached the voicemail for PERSON’S NAME in the DIVISION NAME. I am in the office today, but unable to take your call. Please leave me a message, and I will be happy to return your call as quickly as possible.
What a great way to reinforce the company’s brand!
I am now in the process of recommending to all of my clients that they create a similar script for their own employees to use. In order to enhance the branding a little bit, we will add a very brief messaging statement, too.
Of course, I’m going to change my own message! Thank you for calling Argentum Strategy Group, a firm specializing in providing Timeshare VPs of Marketing(R). You have reached the voicemail for Susan Silver. I am in the office today, but unable to take your call. Please leave me a message, and I will return your call as quickly as possible.