Voicemail in 2025: Still Worth Leaving or a Waste of Time?
For years, sales teams have debated whether leaving voicemails is a waste of energy. After all, most calls go to voicemail, and many never get returned. But in 2025, with inboxes flooded and LinkedIn messages piling up, a well-crafted voicemail can still stand out—if done right.
Here’s why voicemail isn’t dead (yet), and how SDRs can make it work for them.
Why Voicemail Still Matters
- It Humanizes Your Outreach
Hearing a real voice cuts through digital noise. Even if they don’t call back, prospects may be more likely to recognize your name when they see your follow-up email. - It Builds Multi-Touch Credibility
Effective outreach isn’t about one channel—it’s about coordinated touches. A voicemail paired with an email or LinkedIn message increases your chances of engagement. - It Differentiates You
Most reps don’t leave voicemails at all. A short, professional message can make you stand out from competitors who rely solely on email blasts.
How to Leave a Voicemail That Works
- Keep it under 20 seconds – Long voicemails get deleted.
- Lead with value – Focus on a prospect’s challenge, not your company’s résumé.
- Leave a hook, not a pitch – The goal isn’t to close; it’s to spark curiosity.
- Pair it with a follow-up – Reference your voicemail in a same-day email: “I just left you a quick voicemail and wanted to share the same info here…”
When Not to Leave a Voicemail
- High-volume, first-touch campaigns – If speed is your priority, skipping voicemail may keep your activity levels high.
- If you’re unprepared – A rambling or awkward voicemail hurts more than it helps.
Key Takeaway
Voicemail in 2025 isn’t dead—but it’s not a silver bullet either. Used strategically, it adds a human touch to your outreach and increases recognition across channels. For SDRs who want to stand out, the right voicemail can still be a small investment that delivers outsized returns.
