The Curiosity Voicemail
Under 20 seconds | Creates intrigue
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I’ve got a quick question about your outbound strategy—give me a call back when you get a chance. My number is [number]. Again, that’s [Your Name], [number]. Thanks!”
Why it works: Curiosity is powerful. The vague “quick question” creates enough intrigue to prompt a callback without being manipulative.
The Value-First Voicemail
Under 30 seconds | Leads with benefit
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I’m calling because we just helped [similar company] add 40 meetings to their pipeline in 60 days, and I thought it might be relevant to you. I’d love to share how—give me a call at [number] or feel free to reply to my email. Thanks!”
Why it works: Concrete result + relevance. They know exactly what you’re offering before calling back.
The Trigger-Based Voicemail
Under 25 seconds | Shows research
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I noticed [trigger: you’re hiring SDRs / you just raised funding / you launched a new product]—congrats! I’ve got an idea that might help with the pipeline side of things. Call me back at [number] when you get a sec. Thanks!”
Why it works: Proves you’ve done research. Trigger makes the call timely and relevant.
The Referral Voicemail
Under 25 seconds | Social proof
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. [Referrer name] suggested I give you a call—said you might be looking at ways to improve your outbound. I’d love to connect when you have a few minutes. My number is [number]. Thanks!”
Why it works: Referrals convert 4x higher. Name-dropping a mutual connection immediately builds trust.
The Follow-up Voicemail
Under 20 seconds | References prior contact
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate again. I sent you an email yesterday about [topic]—just wanted to make sure it landed and see if you had any questions. Call me back at [number] or just reply to the email. Talk soon!”
Why it works: Multi-channel increases visibility. References email so they know to look for it.
The Breakup Voicemail
Under 25 seconds | Creates urgency
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I’ve tried reaching you a few times and haven’t heard back—totally fine, I’m guessing the timing’s off. This will be my last call, but if outbound pipeline becomes a priority, I’m here to help. My number is [number]. All the best!”
Why it works: Scarcity and finality often prompt action. Shows respect for their time while leaving door open.
The LinkedIn Follow-up Voicemail
Under 20 seconds | Multi-channel
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I sent you a LinkedIn message earlier today—wanted to follow up quickly by phone in case you don’t check messages often. Give me a call at [number] when you get a chance. Thanks!”
Why it works: Covers multiple channels. Shows persistence without being annoying.
Voicemail Best Practices
- Keep it under 30 seconds: Anything longer gets deleted.
- Say your number twice: Once at the start context, once slowly at the end.
- Smile when you talk: It comes through in your tone.
- Stand up: You’ll sound more energetic and confident.
- Have one CTA: Call back, reply to email, or check LinkedIn—not all three.
- Leave voicemails strategically: Don’t leave one every call—vary your approach.
Voicemail + Email Combo
For best results, send a brief email right after leaving a voicemail:
“Hi [Name], just left you a voicemail. Here’s the quick version: [one sentence value prop]. Worth 15 minutes to explore? [Your calendly link or suggested times]”