Today I called a candidate to schedule a phone interview. I never scheduled it. Why? Her voicemail message said “Howdy doody folks, not here, probably out soaking up sun or having a drink or two, leave your message and perhaps I’ll get back…are you worth it”? Swear to God folks. Why would someone want to schedule an interview…
Your voicemail message may be the first “live” introduction to the hiring official. Make sure the message is clear, professional and upbeat. This is not the time to have a cute message vowing your love for religion, professional or another human being. This is not the time for jokes on your voicemail, music, to have your children sing a song and this is not the time for you to announce that you are out for a “hunka bunka lovin time” (seriously folks – I have heard all of the above.) I admit, I have said an occasional “Go Yankees”, which I may do now, or Go Bills, hey I can even do that now…but I am not looking for a job.
You message should be clear, concise and professional. And don’t forget to check it at least twice daily!
Does anyone bother with recording their own voicemail any more? Surely the best approach is to leave it as the pre-recorded voice, rather than one’s own.