I have heard people say that voice mail is dead. I understand that some people, especially under 30, will let their cell phone voice mail box get full on purpose.

I may have returned every voice mail I've received from someone I know who asked me to call them back. I usually return it the same day. There is a whole class of people who handle voice mail this way. It's considered polite and effective. The same day call back is reciprocal with the other party, allowing one to build a network of people they can count on for same day results. I've only returned perhaps half of the e-mail when someone I know who has asked me to reply.

One of the great things about voice mail is that only important people tend to leave voice mail if you are using a number that sales people don't know. In many circles, especially older executives, their personal voice mail may be the highest priority message store.

I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss voice mail. If you know me and want me to engage with you it's the way to go. Plus you have a chance of getting me live in the first place. For those who prefer a text or an e-mail for the most important messages, god bless you. I haven't figured out how to deal with the most important mixed in with the tonnage.