As a career recruiter my phone is at once, both my best friend, and the bane of my existence. I am the only person among my friends who could set a phone face down on a table and within 5 minutes turn to over to have missed 2 or 3 calls. It is relentless. My frustration comes in the fact that while I’m paid to spend time on the phone, often, that time is unproductive because I am sorting through droves of meaningless messages, many which I can’t even reply too.

There is definitely a difference in being effective or ineffective when leaving a message which can impact the speed at which your request is actioned, how seriously you are taken and even your reputation.

So what’s ineffective?

To put all of these points into context as well, you need to remember I’m a recruiter; so on some level I am assessing your ability to communicate effectively - even when it’s a message and we’re not directly speaking with one another.

So what’s effective?

Well take in to account all of the above and you’ll be well on your way to leaving an effective message. The real key is to be clear and concise. Be succinct. The point is for a return call so I don’t need the full story on my voice mail like an audio book of Game of Thrones.

Keep it simple:

Easy.

Bottom line, to elicit a speedy response from a recruiter that can jump straight into action because they understand your intent; just leave a good message!