There is a trend among telephone receptionists to speak in short, clipped tones? Some staccato-like delivery resembles a computer voice until the end of a sentence, when the tone shifts to a higher, sing-song key and makes a statement sound like a question. Frequently they begin a sentence with an "Um-m!" and tie sentences together with an "And, Um-m."
When interviewing or training telephone specialists, have them practice reading segments from your brochures. Not only will it teach them about your business, but repeated reading will help them avoid the above scenario. Insist on a voice quality that is warm, soft and friendly. A prospect's first impression of a company is that voice on the phone.
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