On hold messaging – an integral part of your marketing plan

When you’re sitting down and putting together your marketing budget, do you think about allocating some of the money to on hold messaging? If you haven’t you should. An on hold message should be part and parcel of your marketing plan because it’s a simple, effective way to promote your business activity.

When you’re sitting down and putting together your marketing budget, do you think about allocating some of the money to on hold messaging? If you haven’t you should. An on hold message should be part and parcel of your marketing plan because it’s a simple, effective way to promote your business activity.

1. One of the best on hold messages is to let your customers know how much you appreciate their call and their business.
2. Spread the word about any industry awards or recognitions you or your company has received.
3. What makes your company stand above the competition? Let your callers know what your competitive advantage is.
4. Talk about professional association memberships and designations.
5. Don’t operate under the assumption that your callers know all there is to know about your company. Talk about your products and services as your callers are likely only aware of the particular service they currently receive from you.
6. Use the time to up-sell add on services and products.
7. Answer frequently asked questions. Save customer service time and resources. Give the caller general information about your business opening and closing times, website addresses, business location and street address.
8. Use your on hold messages to promote sales or advertise special deals.
9. Let the callers know why doing business with you is the best decision for them. What sets you apart? What benefits do you offer that the competition doesn’t? Ease of use? Prompt turn around? Etc.
10. Offer a “hint of the week,” or a bit of expert advice.
11. Do you have employment opportunities available? Announce them in the on hold messages.

Remember, a professionally-voiced on hold message is a cost effective marketing tool that will benefit your business in many different ways.