I try my best to respond quickly to communication that happens through Facebook, Twitter, email or text.
Voicemail (VM) however, is another story.
Maybe it’s just me, but when I get a voicemail, in 2012, it does not create a sense of urgency.
Now I know I can’t assume that every other married, thirty three year old with two kids under six who sleeps with his iPhone feels the same, but I’m going to.
In fact, I’m finding myself more and more frequently, never even getting around to listening to my voicemail. And I’m doing so without regret.
Here’s why: When I get a VM, I assume that if it is important, some additional type of modern, digital and more immediate communication is on the way next.
Sorry, but it had to be said.
If you need some hints as to what I’d prefer, I’m happy to help.
A follow up text is preferable, as I just saw that you called, I ignored it and my eyes are literally still on the screen (as I watch, I’m actually hoping that you don’t leave a voicemail and are texting me instead).
Also, an email quickly works, too.
Bottom line: If you are leaving voicemails only, without tossing a second digital dart, you’re nuts.
Could you have a better system in place for handling your incoming calls and voicemails as an agent or brokerage?
You better believe it.
Introducing an app for that.
I spent some time this week in Austin with one half of the team that started BetterVoicemail.
OMG!
Manage your voicemails. - image courtesy of author
Here’s my official review: It’s like Google Voice, YouMail, call capture, listen to a prerecorded message about a listing, a CRM, press one for this, two for that and an app for the iPhone and Android, had an orgy.
Sometimes you don’t know that you need something so badly for an entire industry, until two whiz kids from Texas build it.
It’s that special.
BetterVoicemail - image courtesy of author
The BetterVoicemail website is rich with information comparing them with other options.
It also clearly explains how it works and the features that rock.
For real estate agents, BetterVoicemail offers a 14 day free trial. After that, they charge.
There are also highly scalable, enterprise level solutions.
If I were a big brokerage or a national franchise, I would call (or email or Facebook or Tweet or text) them immediately.
