In today's economy where many companies are downsizing and cutting back, and where sales associates are changing companies looking for better opportunities, it is not surprising to telephone someone from our database and find out that they are no longer there.
What is challenging - and unprofessional - is for companies to keep the extensions and cell phones active for people who no longer represent them.
I've called several people at their direct extension only to get vocie mail. Then, I called them on their cell phone. also getting voice mail saying that they still work at that company. Then, I call the main number, and I'm told that this person is no longer there. Why the charade? Why keep up an illusion?
My guess is that companies don't even think about outside appearances and forget to change the voice mail or disconnect the extension or cell phomnes. They likely are paying for lines that no one is even using.
No shame in having a lean operation or for going in a new direction. If we are the one leaving a company (for whatever reason), we should make sure that our voice mail is disabled - we won't be able to retrieve anything anyway. If we are the employer doing the downsizing - same thing. Why mislead the public or spend money for nothing?
We need to focus on communication, and a nonexistent extension or cell phone is not a positive step in that direction.
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For more information on my coaching and educational programs and services, visit my website stevehoffacker.com, or go to my other blog homesalesinsights.com for additional sales tips, insights, and commentary. Listen to my free podcast messages at Steve Hoffacker's Happenings.
Steve Hoffacker - Consultant, Coach, Author, Blogger, Photographer, Motivator, Teacher, & Strategist - for Realtors, Real Estate Sales Professionals, Home Builders, New Home Salespeople, Entrepreneurs, Small Business Owners, and Independent Sales Representatives.
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