Return The Call!
It’s the Right Thing to Do
Today’s telephone answering devices and call identifyers have caused some people to develop bad telephone etiquette. Few things are as annoying as leaving a message and having it not returned. It says more about you than you might intend to. The thing to do is answer the phone if you are there, and if not, return the call as soon as possible. It’s the polite thing to do, even if it is to say, “No thank you.”
I have taken to not leaving messages as it removes control as I await the return call.
October 7th, 2009 at 7:07 am
I stopped leaving messages for the same reason, but sometimes those people would call and say, “Did you call my number but not leave a message?” “Well, yes.” That felt awkward. I’m not sure I want to say, “Right, I didn’t leave a message because I wanted to remain in control.” Any comment, Ron?
October 7th, 2009 at 8:49 am
Personally I feel no obligation to return phone calls from people I don’t know. Telephone solicitation is downright annoying. When I am home I take the call and tell them to go to hell and get me off of their list.
October 7th, 2009 at 9:30 am
I agree with you Ron, with one variation. It’s my practice to leave a message (but only one message). If I don’t get a return call shortly I’ll continue to call them but not leave any additional message(s). When I do finally reach the person, they often say they heard my message (and feel guilty). I try to make them feel better (by saying that I’ve been in meetings or was probably on the phone when they called) and then continue with the reason for my call. This way, they get my message, they get my call, and I maintain control … all so we can carry on with business.
October 7th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Response to Pam; One way is to say what Pete says. Another technique is when you leave a message say, “I need to talk to you but I am running out now and I will call you back.” This way you avoid Pam’s concern but still stay in control.
My message in this post is to those who do not return the calls (or e-mails.) It’s not good business to flat out ignore anyone. If you don’t want to talk to me, call me and tell me that, I won’t call you back, I promise.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:53 am
I see a lot of “what I do” comments here. If I am reading this right, the message is aimed at people who do not return phone calls. Incidentally the same consideration applies to e-mail.
October 9th, 2009 at 7:29 am
In my dealings, lately I am straight with people and say nicely to them that we need to connect by a certain date or we are wasting our time. It works for me. Nothing more irritating than the increasing multitude of people who are late, sloppy, dont return calls or dont get stuff done, miss deadlines etc. A person should not even be in business if they can t communicate and PERFORM on a timely basis, and making sure they dont get so late as to pass a critical deadline. People that honor your timeline, get things done as promised, when promised, and communicate are successful for sure.