The art of leaving phone messages

When leaving a phone message consider things from the listner's point of view. For instance, when I leave a message I use the format:

"Hi John, this is Amir calling from txtfo. My number is +44 7970 49 6624. John I was calling you about X. So again I would appreciate it if you could call me. Once again its Amir calling from +44 7970 49 6624".

So firstly I have said the name of the person I am calling (everyone loves hearing their name). Secondly, I have left them my number. This is so that they can listen to the whole message and if I leave my number just at the end of the call and they don't catch it the first time they will have to listen to the whole message again before getting it.

Then I let them know what the call is concerning as brief as possible (or I could just ask them to return my call). I then leave my number again at the end so they should hopefully have a pen by now to write the number down.

Obviously when leaving my number I say it very slowly and clearly so they get a chance to write it down. If you are uncomfortable with your voice (or even if you think it is Okay) I would recommend reading a couple of books on improving it, such as this one: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Speak-Influence-Unlock-Hidden-Power/dp/0966430255/ref=pd_bbs_4/203-3830988-4050358?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1191973812&sr=8-4.

You can also take singing lessons or other voice coaches to help you. The general advice though is to be standing when you are speaking and also to be smiling (it come across in your calls!).

Again your comments/tips to this post appreciated!