Q&A for How to Leave the Perfect Voicemail Message

It depends on the device, but generally you would follow the prompts from your device and record a nice message letting callers know to leave you a message.

Start by telling the recipient your name, explain how you know them and recite your number if they don't already have it. Then state your business (most likely casual if you're calling from your personal phone). If you're leaving the voicemail for a family member or close friend, you probably won't need to identify yourself beyond your first name.

Yes, it is usually about 4 minutes. This is to prevent filling up the inbox with a long pocket dial or something of the sort.

You can simply hang up after leaving the message. Most carriers allow you to press 1 for more options with the voicemail.

The recording typically starts after a beep, which is why many greetings say, "Leave a message after the tone." The recording ends when the time limit is reached, you hang up, or you press a key for more options.