I’m sure I’m not the only person who gets extremely frustrated when I leave a message for a service professional and don’t get a return call. It amazes me at how many plumbers, electricians, contractors, etc. just don’t return phone calls. I always wonder if they are so incredibly wealthy that they can just afford to blow people off. It’s very disrespectful and bad business.
Purrfect Pet Sitting’s voicemail lets callers know that all calls will be returned in 24 hours. I do return all calls. Well, except for the drunk lady that keeps leaving a message wanting to make an appointment for me to groom her dog or the lady who leaves messages wanting to volunteer in my bakery. All other calls DO get returned! Obviously if it’s a client calling from vacation to check on their fur babies or someone with an emergency we call back right away! All other calls are returned just as soon as possible, but it’s always by the next day.
I’m a firm believer in returning all calls (except the drunk people) even if I know I can’t help them because one never knows when that person may just refer the next best client ever! Karma is a wonderful thing.
Unfortunately I can’t always answer the phone personally as I may be walking a dog or scooping a litterbox. I don’t want a phone call to interrupt or interfere with your pets visit! You can rest assured however that if you leave a message your call WILL be returned!
So, what say you? Is 24 hours an acceptable period to expect a return phone call?
You comment that calls of higher importance get returned ASAP and that is the way it should be. For me, personally 24hrs is a little on the long side. Most people are looking to discuss there needs as soon as possible. 24 hours gives the perspective customer adequate time to shop the competition and you potentially lose a one time (or possibly re-concurring sits). As you stated, your voice mail message makes it clear that you will get back to them within a given time frame and that is really all that matters. I am sure most of your calls are returned well within that 24 hour window.