I will apologize now to anyone I may offend. This is not directed at any one person, but a reminder to all of us as marketers…

Why is that people feel compelled to answer their phones when they are in a meeting or appointment? Then act like you have disturbed them & they have to call you back. Really??? Then why in the world did you answer? It’s not like most phones don’t show the number the call is coming from… If I was the person you were meeting with, I would feel really unimportant if you answer an incoming call while we are talking!

I have been making sales calls this week & at least 3 people have answered their phones (office or cell) and then whispered to me that they are in a meeting, seminar or appt., so they will have to call me back. We make a lot of calls in this office, some sales calls, some follow-ups, and an equal part returning calls. And we all have the same experience.

As marketers, we should be even more cognoscente of impressions. So as a courtesy to those you are meeting with and those calling you, please don’t answer your phone if you are not in a position to talk. I understand when people are busy or driving and can’t take down a number, so they ask you to email the information, or refer you to someone else that can help, but answering the phone just to say you are unavailable & hang up is not only rude to the caller & whoever you are meeting with/listening to in person, but a waste of time for everyone! Let your voice mail answer & handle when you can do so properly. 

Think before you answer! Thanks!