Hello? Is there anybody there?

So far this month I've spent more time on the phone than in training and its made me think a bit more about my mobile phone and how I answer it, or not, as the case may be...

I'm talking about answer phone messages here guys – what does yours say about you?

No message or service providers default message: How will a client know that they have reached you when you can't answer the phone? How do you know that they will call back – they may not leave a message if they don't know that they have the right phone.

Just name and 'leave a message': – Why aren't you mentioning that you're a PT? They may still miss your name and this gives a second chance to ensure that they know that they have got the right person before, hopefully, leaving a message.

'Ordinary' sounding message: My little sister (who is not local to me) called a PT and on hearing a rather dull/monotone message she did not leave a message and decided to try someone else instead. Don't be dull, a client can't believe that you can motivate them in person if you can't even motivate them to leave a message.

Upbeat, happy 'sorry I'm busy training' message: A positive attitude is infectious and will encourage clients to want to train with you and hence leave a message this time. By saying you are busy training it tells the client that you are in demand, good at your job and again encourages them again.

So if you want the business you need to be there even when you're not – get you answer phone message recorded an make it;

Upbeat

Friendly

Not too long

Clear

State why you're not able to take the call (you're busy of course!)

Oh and one more thing – check it regularly (to make sure network errors have not 'dropped' it from your system), change it for major events and make it personal to you!