We originally discussed this topic on our blog in February 2009 but unsurprisingly we have come across the same problem whilst calling planners to attend WPE ’10. Therefore we thought it worthwhile to visit the issue of ‘first impressions’ again.

We have all been bought up being told this age old saying but how many of us follow it? Recently the directors of the Alliance were calling wedding planners on our database to discuss our forthcoming seminar. We were all surprised to discover a huge percentage of planners do not have a business answerphone, instead the recording was just “I’m not in, leave a message”. We wondered how many potential brides would be put off by a message of this type; what impression is it creating of you and your company? In our opinion everyone should have an answering machine programmed to highlight who you are and what you do:

“Thank you for calling company name, I’m sorry I’m not here to take your call, rest assured your call is important so please do leave me a message including your name and number and I will return your call within 48 hours. Alternatively you can call me on mobile number”

What are your views? We’d love to hear from you.

Bernadette Chapman is the UKAWP’s training director and also runs Dream Occasions, operating throughout the South East of England.