This may be the age of email, texting and instant messaging, but the telephone is still the primary method of contact between most financial advisors and their clients.

“The telephone is probably the most important means of communication aside from meeting in person,” says Joshua Zuchter, a business coach and personal coach in Toronto. Here are some tips to help you get the most from your telephone:

> Answer Promptly. If you have a “live” receptionist, make sure your telephone is answered on or before the third ring. Any longer and you’ve lost an opportunity to demonstrate prompt service.

> Put A Smile In Your Voice. Always sound positive when talking on the phone, both in your tone of voice and in your choice of words. Smile when answering — it will be reflected in your voice.

“When talking on the phone, try to be positive and optimistic, no matter whom you’re speaking with,” Zuchter says. “Sometimes it helps to pretend the person is in the room with you.”

> Display Your Identity. For outgoing calls, make sure your name, company name or phone number is displayed on phones equipped with a “caller ID” feature. Many clients won’t answer the phone unless they know who is calling.

“A blocked number usually works against the caller,” Zuchter says.

> Respond Promptly. If a client leaves a message, make sure the call is returned within one business day. Even if you don’t have the information the client requested, call back to tell them you are working on it.

Think of every phone message as a test of your reliability. Delays could result in clients losing confidence in your commitment to deliver prompt service and, ultimately, in lost business.

> Manage Your Messages. “Up-date your voice mail every day,” Zuchter says. That assures clients that you are in the office and will probably get their message.

If you’re not gong to be able to return calls within 24 hours, leave an out-of-office message on your voice mail. That way clients will know when to expect your return call.

> Call Your Office. Every so often, call your office to see how your call is answered. Ask yourself what that experience would be like from a client’s point of view.

IE