Dealing with Answering Machines: Strategies for Calling Contacts

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various experiences and strategies participants use when dealing with answering machines while calling contacts related to their Pampered Chef business. Participants share their challenges and approaches to encourage callbacks and increase bookings.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions leaving messages that invite contacts to call back and express gratitude for their orders, but notes that callbacks are rare.
  • Another participant shares a similar struggle and expresses a desire for ideas to improve their booking rates for upcoming shows.
  • One user describes their method of leaving messages for leads, indicating that they follow up multiple times if they do not receive a response.
  • A different participant notes that calling from a different phone number or at various times may help reach contacts who might be avoiding calls.
  • Another participant shares a detailed example of a message they leave, emphasizing the importance of persistence in follow-ups.
  • One participant expresses appreciation for the tips shared by others in the thread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the common challenge of reaching contacts and the low response rate to messages left. However, there are varied personal strategies shared without a clear consensus on the most effective approach.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences of Pampered Chef consultants navigating communication challenges with potential customers and leads.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling answering machines and improving communication with contacts may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

D
dwyerkim
Messages
546
wondering how you all deal with them. I've been really working on calling contacts but I get so many answering machines. If I am following up about an order I usually leave a message inviting them to call me back, thanking them for their order, and asking if they have any questions/concerns. They don't call back 99 times out of 100. If I am calling a contact from a fair, I usually leave a message the first time I call with a special offer if they call within a week (they don't call), after that for repeat calls I've not been leaving messages b/c I would rather try and catch them in person. Any other ideas? I've only got two shows booked for May and really want more like 8-10! Thanks for any help!
 
I have no idea how to help you Kimberly ... I have the SAME problem and would LOVE to hear some ideas about this! I have my show, a catalog show and a cooking show on the 19th, but I would really like help to get my bookigns up for May and also June/July becuase my husband is deploying then.
 
I have the same problem too. What I usually do for CCC is just let them know they can call me with questions. For leads, I tell them they are welcome to call me back, but that if I don't hear from them in a few days I'll try again. I usually leave this message a couple of times. If I haven't heard back in a few tries, I figure they are trying to ignore me & just leave a message that I'm sorry I've been unable to reach them but I'd love for them to call me back.
 
Unfortunately this happens to everyone. I love and hate caller id at the same time. I have found that if I call from another phone at a different time of day (i.e. my work) instead of my standard home or cell phone I might just be able to reach them. Some are intentionally avoiding our calls while others are so busy like we are they just don't have time to call us back. Some mean well but keep forgetting and just assume you will call back and catch them. The only advice I can say and believe me I really have this problem too but, just keep trying. Leave a message that says something like this. "Hi this is _____ from the Pampered Chef. I met you at ______ and I remember how excited you work about hosting a show,etc. (or you fill in the blank). You can reach me @ (817)__________. I look forward to hearing from you." When or if they don't return your call call them a few more times. On the 3rd call or so just simply state something like this." Hi ______, this is ___________- from the Pampered Chef. I am so sorry I haven't been able to reach you. A good time to reach me is ________pm and my phone number is ________. If I don't hear from you I will keep trying until we connect as I know you were really excited about _________. (or) the ending line could be "If I don't hear from you by ________ I will assume you are not interested and I will need to remove you from my mailing list."

Most of the time they will call back (of course with lots of excuses) before I have to use that last line. Sometimes I will reach them and sometimes not. Just keep trying but do go to a different phone first and see how that works. Let me know how it goes.
 
good tips sharon, thanks
 
I leave message about a call backI usually leave my phone number but also let them know that if I don't hear from them I will be calling back in a few days to either talk about their new products, hosting a show, or referrals.

Hello this is Debbie Mireles calling from the Pampered Chef. I was calling to talk about the new products you received and to see if I could answer any questions you might have. I would love to send you some recipes that you could use with your new products. You can reach me at XXX-XXXX or XXX-XXXX anytime after or before XX:XX. I look forward to hearing from you, in case we don't connect in a few days I will be calling back on Friday at XX:XX to see if I can catch you. Thank you so much for your purchase! Talk to you soon, goodbye!

Or I was calling to discuss some possible show dates with you since you showed an interest in hosting a show!

Debbie :D
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I say when I reach an answering machine?

When you reach an answering machine, start by introducing yourself and your business. Clearly state the purpose of your call and mention any relevant information, such as a special offer or event. Keep your message concise, friendly, and inviting, encouraging them to call you back.

How long should my voicemail message be?

Your voicemail message should ideally be between 20 to 30 seconds long. This duration is enough to convey your message without overwhelming the listener. Make sure to get to the point quickly while still sounding personable and approachable.

Should I leave a message every time I reach an answering machine?

Yes, it’s generally a good idea to leave a message each time you reach an answering machine. Leaving a message shows persistence and professionalism. However, if you’ve already left multiple messages without a response, consider adjusting your approach or reaching out through a different method, such as email or text.

What can I do to increase the chances of a callback?

To increase the chances of a callback, make your message engaging and include a clear call to action. Mention a specific benefit or reason for them to return your call, such as a limited-time offer or an exciting new product. Additionally, ensure you leave your contact information clearly so they can easily reach you.

How can I track my calls and responses effectively?

To track your calls and responses, maintain a simple spreadsheet or use a customer relationship management (CRM) tool. Record the date of the call, the contact's name, the message left, and any follow-up actions needed. This will help you stay organized and ensure you follow up appropriately with each contact.

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