Two salespeople left me messages today, ones that I actually wanted to hear. Both sounded like they are experienced salespeople, but clearly neither one had considered a problem with their verbal image.
When they left me voice mail messages, they said their telephone numbers at a very fast rate.
It takes longer to write down a telephone number than to say it. People can talk faster than they can write.
When
leaving a telephone number for someone else, write it on paper or in
the air as you speak; this will give you the correct rate of speech. If
you go very fast, because clearly you know your own telephone number,
your listener may have to replay the message repeatedly to make sure he
has it written down correctly. This is not good for your verbal image;
it also is not good for a possible sale!
Yes, many of
us have caller ID, but sometimes we want to called at a different
telephone number, such as a cell phone number, an 800 number if it's a
business incoming call, or some other phone number.
Saying your telephone number clearly and slowly is crucial - even if you are in a hurry.
Do you normally speak quickly? Business Speech Improvement offers an e-book of practical tips: How to Speak Slowly in Six Steps. Speech rate coaching for speedy speakers who want to slow down and need help is also available.
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