When you are cold calling, chances are you are routed to voicemail often. Most salespeople don’t get a call-back, for the voicemails they leave. Here’s how to ensure you are not one of them. 
- Keep it short
Your prospects are busy. They don’t have time for lengthy, “salesy” voicemails.
Your voicemail ideally should be around 20-30 seconds. If the voicemail is longer than 30 seconds its sounds like you are attempting to sell your product or service, which is impossible to do by voicemail, anyway. Be clear, concise and compelling. - Don’t start with your first name
It should be about them, not you.
The problem with your name and the company your work is the majority of voicemails start like this. Also, If the client already knows your company they may have an opinion already formed and delete voicemail. A better way to start off is “Hi Bob, the reason for my call today is.” Be sure to say their name a few times throughout the voicemail. People are conditioned to listen more closely when their name is mentioned so this tactic can help keep them engaged with the entire voicemail. - Build urgency
Mention specific dates and times in your message, even if they are relatively artificial. This will entice your prospect to call you back. If they don’t respond to your message, call them back on that specific time and date to emphasize your punctuality and commitment to them as a customer.
As a salesperson, voicemails can be disappointing. But, with these best practices, you can turn voicemails into an opportunity for a conversation.