---
title: Can't Take That Call? Enhance Your Voicemail Greeting to Speak to Your Brand.
description: Can't Take That Call? Enhance Your Voicemail Greeting to Speak to Your Brand.
---

[SHIFT](https://www.shiftthework.com/blog)

# [Can't Take That Call? Enhance Your Voicemail Greeting to Speak to Your Brand.](https://www.shiftthework.com/blog/enhance-your-voicemail-greeting)

 Written by [Emily Plahanski](https://www.shiftthework.com/blog/author/emily-plahanski) | February 21, 2017

Over the past several months, I’ve received applause for my blog, “[The Death of the Traditional Out-of-Office](http://www.entrequest.com/blog/the-death-of-the-traditional-out-of-office),” recognizing its approach to changing what some may view as a mindless business behavior to one that is intentional and effective. Keeping consistent with mindfully modifying behaviors, let’s now take a look at another vital piece of your personal and professional brand – **your voicemail recording**.

I encourage you to call yourself and listen to your voicemail recording. If your voicemail greeting states your name, that you are not able to answer your phone, and a request to leave a name and number and assurance that you will call that person back; you are not alone.

Let’s face it, most people who leave a voicemail obviously want a call back and *will automatically* leave their name and number.  Those are givens.  Instead of prompting callers for something will do out of habit anyway, repurpose that valuable real estate in your voicemail greeting to **add value**, **create memorable content**, and **inspire others**. Let your personalized voicemail message speak to your brand and who you are as a professional.

**Three steps to making your voicemail stand out:**

1. **SMILE**. No, you’re not taking a picture; however, you are leaving a recording.  People can FEEL when you are smiling on the other end of the phone. Don’t just take my word for it, try it out for yourself!
2. **PRACTICE**. Recording your voicemail message may not come naturally, at first.  In fact, it may feel downright awkward! A great technique is to pretend as if someone is sitting in front of you and you’re speaking directly to them. Life is not scripted, and you’re not a robot. Practice the recording just enough until you’ve memorized it and can recite it in a natural, conversational tone of voice.
3. **ADD** **VALUE**. Value means telling your listener something you believe will inspire them, inform them, intrigue them, and/or enrich their day through your words. Aim to make them smile, ponder, or feel enlightened.

Try this:

*“Hi, it’s Emily with SHIFT! Thanks for your call today. I’m likely in our All-Hands company meeting talking about our involvement in the upcoming event, Light City, starting on March 31st in Baltimore. It’s a six-day celebration, bringing together innovators and thought leaders in Baltimore and from across the nation. As soon as I’m available, I promise I will call back. And if you’re interested in learning more about Light City and my experience last year, make sure to ask me about it! Make it a great day!”*

Start separating yourself and your brand in a unique way.  Voicemail is an essential touch point that should not be overlooked  as there is a good chance your clients/customers/partners will reach  your voicemail it at some point in your relationship with them, and when they do, I assure you this will impress them.   Send me a note, I would love to hear  what experience or feedback you receive from this simple, yet powerful change!

[View full post](https://www.shiftthework.com/blog/enhance-your-voicemail-greeting)

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