Interesting post.

For my work I leave at least 80 voicemails a day scattered all over the american landscape, part of my job is getting people to pay their failed billing. I have found that it is key to keep these short not only for a better chance of getting a call back but also for my own sanity and vocal chords.

Nichole mentions leaving her email. I do not leave my email address as this makes things way too long winded. Name Number and reason for call, then repeat name and number just in case they missed it the first time.

The funny thing is that I hate getting voicemail too. Having to scribe down the info is such a backward concept to email or texting.

Mark points out that leaving more detail in a voicemail is useful but keep this in mind: when checking voice mail 8 times out of 10 you probably have to call the person back anyway, either for an action to take place or for clarification. Its best to keep it short enough not to annoy rather than too long only to be deleted and passed up.

On the outgoing message I agree, keep these simple people: no music, no cute joke about what you might be doing, and above all NO KIDS!!! Its just not cute to anyone else but you.