Jim- I am laughing because you're right about the Genie being out of the bottle. Some don't understand that even though your message has been received you may not be able to answer immediately.
Jim Paulson
Boise, ID
If anyone knows of a software program that will check all applicable communication channels and funnel it back into a single format, I would love to learn about it! I do have my voice mails being converted to email so that helps a little since at least I can read the email while I am in a boring meeting.
Yes, we are definitely on overload and I see no signs of slowing!
Jim Paulson
Boise, ID
I sometimes respond even when with clients or in a meeting with "I'm with a client right now and I'll call you back as soon as possible" and that usually stops the #2 through #5. I know you can't always, but when I can that's what I do. Most clients are okay and understanding, but yes some want what they want right when they want it.
Jim Paulson
Boise, ID
I did add a quick response option on my cell phone that does allow me to send messages like "I'm in a meeting" or "I'm with a client" but then they know I can see my phone, so they text me and/or email me. Maybe I need a new option "Take a Prozac and chill, I will get back to you". ;)
You are so right. They want an answer and they want it now. And it seems that the worst offenders of this urgency is other agents.
Jim Paulson
Boise, ID
Belinda Spillman some of the other agents only have one transaction going at a time so they don't have to learn to multi-task. Other times, it is our clients trying to see if the "other agent" has gotten back to me or not yet since they can't believe the lack of response. It is tough because when they call me, I have no idea which way the other agent might have tried, so I am forced to check all potential places they could reach me.