Use voice messages to stay out front.

by Don Sanders

Show customers that you are "on the ball" by keeping your voice mail message current and topical. It's a good idea to change your initial phone greeting on a monthly basis. Tailor your message toward what is happening in the current marketplace. With the holiday season not too far around the corner, now is a wonderful time to include something in your message about gift giving.

Moral of the story: Never underestimate the power of a message.