How do you leave effective voicemails and messages for people from diverse backgrounds?

2 Be clear and concise

Whether you're leaving a voicemail or a message, you want to get your point across quickly and clearly. Avoid rambling, repeating, or adding unnecessary details. Use simple and precise language that avoids jargon, slang, or idioms that may confuse or offend your listener or reader. State the purpose of your call or message, the action you want them to take, and the deadline or urgency if any. Provide your name, company, and contact information at the beginning and the end of your message.

3 Be respectful and professional

Even if you're familiar with the person you're contacting, you should always maintain a respectful and professional attitude. Use appropriate salutations and titles, such as Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor, unless you're invited to use their first name. Avoid making assumptions or judgments about their situation, needs, or preferences. Express gratitude, appreciation, or apology if necessary. Avoid using humor, sarcasm, or criticism that may be misinterpreted or unwelcome. End your message with a courteous sign-off, such as "Thank you", "Best regards", or "Sincerely".

4 Be mindful of the medium

Depending on the medium you're using, you may need to adjust your message accordingly. For example, if you're leaving a voicemail, you should speak slowly, clearly, and audibly, and avoid background noise or distractions. If you're sending a text message, you should use proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation, and avoid abbreviations, emojis, or caps lock. If you're sending an email, you should use a clear and relevant subject line, a formal or informal salutation, and a signature with your contact information.

5 Be sensitive to the time zone

One of the challenges of communicating with people from diverse backgrounds is dealing with different time zones. You don't want to call or message someone when they're sleeping, working, or busy. Check the current time and date of your recipient's location before you contact them. If possible, avoid calling or messaging them during their night time, early morning, or weekends. If you have to, apologize for the inconvenience and explain the reason for your urgency.

6 Be open to feedback

Finally, you should always be open to feedback from your recipient. They may have questions, comments, or suggestions about your message or your request. They may also have different opinions, perspectives, or preferences than yours. Listen carefully and respectfully to what they have to say, and try to understand their point of view. Acknowledge their feedback and respond accordingly. If there's any misunderstanding or conflict, try to resolve it calmly and politely.