The way any phone system greets callers is critical to the image and presentation of your business. From the initial phone greeting to all callers, through whatever phone menu your system uses - or if you have a live receptionist - through to the voicemail greeting on personal phones, every step sends a message about your company and about you.
If you want them to leave a voicemail, tell them right from the beginning, “Please leave your name, reason your calling, and the best way to contact you.” If you want them to call you back during normal business hours, tell them, “Please call back during normal business hours.” If you want them to call back prepared for a lengthy conversation, you can say something like, “Please refer to our website’s FAQ page,” and then provide the URL. Self-service should never be underestimated.

Answering machines are devices that people hook up to their telephones to record messages when those people cannot answer their phones. These machines also can store greetings that are recorded and are played back when the machines must answer the phone. To choose the best answering machine, you should decide how you plan on using this device. If you need an answering machine for clients who might be calling your business, it is a good idea to pick an answering machine that is highly reliable and that is able to store a large number of messages. People who need devices for their homes, however, might find that the best answering machine is a simpler model that also is less expensive. Answering machines allow callers to record messages for the owner.
Expand your opening to with 'Thank you for calling [insert company/individual name]' or 'You've reached the voicemail of [insert company/individual name]'. This personal touch goes a long way towards building a rapport even when you're not available to answer the call directly.