There are times when you need to call a potential customer, whether to follow up on an earlier conversation or gasp, to cold call. Calling a prospect and leaving a message can be daunting at times. I hate talking to answering machines, but I know I have to leave a message so I often have to prepare a script or at least run through my head what I am going to say. Plus, I speak with a Filipino accent so I have to speak slower to make sure that the person hearing my message can understand what I say.

But leaving a message is actually the easiest part — getting that person call you back is the tricky part, especially in cold calling situations. Here are some tips to improve your chances of getting your calls returned:

1. Repeat your number — the person on the other end of the line may not have been able to get your number the first time you said it so it is better to repeat your number again towards the end of your message. If a person was not able to hear your number well, there is a chance they wouldn’t want to playback the message again to get your number. So make sure they get your number the first time they playback your message.

2. Be cryptic. Curiosity sometimes works. When you call, only leave your name and your telephone number – nothing else. This is especially effective when you call someone who is not expecting your call in cold calling situations. The curiosity that you stirred in them may make then call you back.

3. Tease with your message. If you have previously communicated with the person, call him and leave a message saying you have the solution to his/her problem — but don’t give the solution on the phone. Ask the person to call you instead. This is effective if you have previously communicated with the person and you’d want to present to him a solution to a problem the person has raised with you.

We have previously published the article Sales Technique: Voice Mail that Sells that you can read for additional tips.