Rapide’s top tips on how to record an engaging voice message

1) Be conscious of where you are. Background noise will distract listeners from your message, remember they can't ask you to repeat the bits they miss.

2) Call from a landline for a crisp recording. Or if you really do have to call from a mobile, then make sure you're stationary, especially if you're in a car. Stand by all means, but resist pacing.

3) Be yourself. Try to use the same tone and style you would when speaking to your audience normally - this will help to give your message credibility and to make it feel genuine and personal.

4) Stick to the point. Three minutes doesn't sound like much when you're talking, but it feels a whole lot longer when you're listening.

5) Plan before you call. A few briefs notes can help to give what you need to say some logical structure. They should help to prevent any unnecessary pauses and fillers and ensure your message flows.

6) But don't read it word for word. Unless you really must - you'll lose the natural tone in your voice. It's not what you say, as much as how you say it.

7) Know your audience. Watch out for jargon and acronyms (spell them out if you're in any doubt) unless it's something your team use all the time.

8) Use humour. Carefully. It'll help to lighten the tone and brighten your message. But humour is a very personal thing and you're talking in a business context, so don't get carried away.

9) Made a mistake? Don't panic, press 2 and you can check if it really was that bad, and if it was, press 1 to start all over again.

10) Need to send a message out of office hours? It's possible to dial direct to record your call when our office is closed. Call us on 02476 011 911 to find out how you can use the service.