Vacation Scheduling - Time To Go Mobile!
By: Thomas McNally Business doesn’t necessarily take a holiday when you do. So how do you stay ahead of the game while getting some well-deserved R&R? To fix this, I took what could have been a problem and turned it into an opportunity to learn some new best practices. I’ve found that utilizing the power of going mobile can in fact boost the amount of call-backs and eventual meetings scheduled. Here’s the trick: Instead of simply leaving your office number and a specific time of availability, explain that due to upcoming travel you can be reached on your mobile number as well. This establishes a peer-to-peer relationship in the executive's eyes. Executives know unexpected travel and busy schedules lead to time out of the office. They understand cell phones become the most efficient means of business communication and are more likely to reach out to a cell phone rather than another office line.
Try leaving the following voicemail:
“Kim, this is Thomas McNally from Vorsight and I was pointed in your direction after speaking with your colleague Tim Smith who explained that you oversee the development and deployment of field training programs. I had a few quick questions around your video on demand strategy. My direct line is xxx-xxx-xxxx and I will be in the office until 6 pm ET. However, due to some upcoming travel I can be reached on my mobile number at xxx-xxx-xxxx until I return on Friday the 8th. Thanks.”
The amount of “call backs” to my cell phone over the past two weeks has been a much higher percentage compared to my office line including a meeting I secured this morning. I'm currently calling sales operations and sales enablement employees who may be more understanding of cell phone conversations, but I would be interested in hearing if this works for other verticals as well.
Posted by on 06/27 at 09:41 AM
