Sounding Professional

In the business world, keeping things professional really matters. Too often, the place where being professional really matters is neglected—your “voice.” There is a whole world of audio marketing in which it’s important to look—and sound—professional. Making sure your “voice” is well represented means making sure you’re professional not just in the way you speak, but in what you say and where you say it.

“Professional” is a word that is thrown around pretty frequently, but how do you define it? The Merriam-Webster Dictionary points out a few, but the most relevant definition for our purposes is, “(1) : characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession (2) : exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace.”

Where do you start using your voice to sound professional?

1. Social Media

If you don’t have professional social networking accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Linked In, sign up today. To make sure you are portraying a professional voice and image, don’t neglect spell check, and be sure to proofread everything you write, even a casual comment. You might even decide to start blogging—just make sure it’s done with great care. Social media serves as a valuable customer service tool, so it is imperative to monitor and manage these sites regularly to show you are active, and address customers’ questions, comments, and issues.

2. Your Voicemail

At home, on your cell, or at the office, be sure to have a professional voicemail greeting anywhere you might receive a business call. Speak clearly and slowly, and be sure ask the caller for their name, message, and call back number. A message that says “Hey it’s Dave, I’m screening your call” isn’t going to win over many clients or receive any job offers.

3. Your Phones

Your phone is another place where sounding professional matters. Be sure to take the time to recording any IVR announcements and Messages On Hold clearly and with a interest in your voice. Remember: what callers hear on your phone line can be one of the first impressions they have of your company. On the phone, callers will literally hear your voice (even if it’s a professional voice talent, not yourself, speaking)

Of course, these are just the first steps, where to begin when you start thinking about finding professionalism. Being professional starts with you—and your voice.

Juli Durante is a Marketing Associate at Holdcom, a leading provider of Message on Hold and voice production services. Visit them online at www.holdcom.com