Katherine,
Creativity is key! Can you give an example of what you might say, now that you are aware of the creativity part?
Dr. Jean Norris
Based off of this lesson I am to brief I need to use it more for advertisement.
I like the example shown on how to get everything out about the school in a short amount of time.
My voicemails are missing urgency and creativity. I try to be aware of my tone, speed and clarity, but have never thought to be creative!
Erin, Great awareness! Not everyone is one size fits all, so it's great that you are offering other means of communication! Keep up the good work.
Dr. Jean Norris
Even though I am new to the admissions process, I find myself using the same old message for new leads. I don't want to become too comfortable with my voicemail messages that I start becoming robotic sounding or rattle it off too fast that the receiving person can not understand me. Thus, I feel if I create different voicemail messages and mix things up I will not only have a bigger repertoire but will combat becoming stagnant. I also like the idea of adding a email address, as an alternative means of communication. I find that most people do not like to speak on the phone anymore and prefer alternative means of communication, especially texting. I will start adding alternative means of communication into my voicemail messages.
You bring up a great point, changing up your messages may not only be refreshing for your prospective students but for you and your co-workers as well! Let us know how it works out for you. Thank you for your post.
Dr. Jean Norris
I have used the same or a similar voice mail message since I began my journey in admissions. Although the message I leave new leads has nearly all the elements that this course discussed; I've learned that changing my message actually creates more enthusiasm in my voice (because, to me, it isn't the same ole boring message). Now, my colleagues are noticing more excitement in my voice. I'm hoping to receive more call backs now... Thanks to those who posted to "Mix it up."
So it looks like you have two very specific opportunities for improvement in your voice mail messages. Let us know how your new techniques work for you!
Dr. Jean Norris
Although I'm told that I am sometimes the comedic relief of the office, I have failed to use that humor in my messages! Like a lot of others, I've fallen into the habit of being very repetitious when leaving voicemails. It's become second nature and honestly, listening to myself now, I probably wouldn't return my calls either. Also, I don't give them the direction to call me back. I don't actually state that. That is something I'm definitely going to do in the future. I have a little work to do!
Good point! What can you specifically discuss during your message that might encourage the student to call you back?
Dr. Jean Norris
We need to have more urgency when calling potential students, we also need to make a statement to the student to return our phone call, instead of asking them to call us back.
SUHEILY,
Thank you for sharing! What other specific things will you say in your voicemails to address the students as to why you are calling?
Dr. Jean Norris
After this training, I understood that i need to change my approach to the students. I never mention the real reason for my call, because I assume that the student are expecting mi call.
I'm glad the course and this forum helped Humberto. What tip are you going to try first?
Dr. Jean Norris
I need to switch it up and change the tone I leave voicemails. Thanks for the tips
Brian,
Humor is one of those things that works when used tactfully. I've seen some folks get in trouble when using inappropriate humor. I really think it comes down to being "real" and the prospective student knowing that you are a real person too.
Dr. Jean Norris
I see that I need to add some humor in the message to make it more unique.
Great observation James. The idea is to be creative with your messages so to connect with the people who are still making their way through the buying cycle. If you can continue to build rapport through your messages, the person is more likely to return the call when they are ready to do so. Thank you for your post.
I have always just left a normal request for a call back with my phone number. After this section I can see where it might actually make a difference. I just have really never given it any thought. I guess since I return my calls I just assumed...that every one else does also if they wanted to speak to you.
That's awesome Theia! Sometimes when we mix things up a bit we get different and better results! Thank you for your post.
