If you’ve ever called someone and gotten their voicemail, but wasn’t sure if it was the person you meant to call, it’s probably because they didn’t clearly identify themselves in their voicemail greeting.

This is a common mistake made by people who either don’t know, or just don’t care. And it could be costing them business. So here’s 5 tips to having a voicemail greeting that helps you sound professional even when you’re not around:

1. Smile while recording your message. When you smile, the inflection in your voice changes, making you sound warmer and more relaxed.
2. Clearly identify both yourself and the name of your company at the start of the greeting.
3. Record your greeting in a quite place to avoid excess background noise.
4. Inform callers if you’re out of the office for an extended period of time so they won’t think you’re lousy at returning calls.
5. When possible, give alternative ways to reach you – perhaps another number or email address.

Marc Gordon is a marketing expert and professional speaker. Get more marketing tips on his website, marcgordon.ca and on his online show, marctv.net.