Best AI Voice Receptionist Prompts

published on 26 November 2024

AI voice receptionists are transforming customer service by handling calls efficiently, saving time, and providing consistent support 24/7. Whether you're managing a small business or a large organization, these systems can:

  • Greet callers with professional messages.
  • Handle after-hours calls with clear instructions.
  • Answer FAQs and provide accurate information.
  • Route emergency calls quickly to the right contacts.
  • Collect customer feedback effortlessly.
  • Schedule appointments smoothly and avoid double-booking.
  • Transfer calls efficiently without making customers repeat themselves.
  • Support multiple languages for diverse customers.
  • Inform customers about holiday hours and special schedules.
  • Personalize greetings to reflect your brand.

These AI tools not only reduce reception costs but also improve customer satisfaction by offering tailored, reliable service. With platforms like My AI Front Desk, Dialzara, and Google Dialogflow, businesses can set up prompts that match their needs and keep improving over time.

Quick Comparison of AI Receptionist Features

Feature Purpose Example Use Case
Greeting Callers Welcomes and directs callers "Welcome to [Business Name]. How can we help?"
After-Hours Messages Manages calls outside business hours "We're closed now. Leave a message or call back during business hours."
FAQ Handling Answers common questions "Our hours are 9 AM to 5 PM. Visit [website] for more info."
Emergency Call Routing Handles urgent situations "For emergencies, press 1 to reach on-call staff."
Feedback Collection Gathers customer opinions "Rate your experience by pressing 1-5."
Appointment Scheduling Books and confirms appointments "You're scheduled for [date] at [time]."
Call Transfers Directs calls to the right person "I'll connect you to Sarah in Billing."
Multilingual Support Serves customers in their language "Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish."
Holiday Hours Messages Updates callers on special hours "We're closed for the holidays until [date]."
Personalized Greetings Enhances the caller experience "Welcome back, [Name]. How can we assist you today?"

These features are easy to implement and customize, making AI receptionists a valuable addition to any business looking to streamline operations and enhance customer interactions.

1. Greeting Callers Prompt

First impressions matter - especially when it comes to your AI receptionist's greeting. The right greeting can make callers feel welcomed while moving the conversation forward smoothly.

Here's what makes a great greeting work:

Element Purpose Example
Business Name Lets callers know they've reached the right place "Welcome to Sunshine Dental"
Hours Sets clear timing expectations "We're open 9 AM to 5 PM weekdays"
Next Step Moves the conversation forward "How may we assist you today?"

The best greetings keep things simple and clear. Here's a proven template that works well:

"Hello, thank you for calling [Your Business Name]. We're open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. How can we assist you today?"

Match your greeting's style to your business type - medical offices might want a more formal tone, while retail stores can be more casual. Tools like Vonage AI help you adjust the voice to sound just right.

2. After-Hours Message Prompt

When your business is closed, your AI receptionist needs to handle calls like a pro. A good after-hours message tells callers what's up and what to do next.

Want to nail your after-hours message? Here's what matters:

Element Why It's Important What to Say
Current Status Sets immediate expectations "Our office is currently closed"
Hours Info Helps callers plan their next call "We're open weekdays 9 AM-5 PM"
Next Steps Guides callers to action "Leave a message or visit website"
Emergency Contact Helps with urgent issues "For emergencies, call 555-0123"

Pro tip: Keep your message short and sweet - under 30 seconds. According to Dialzara's research, people tend to hang up on longer messages.

Tools like My AI Front Desk and PlayHT can create natural-sounding voice messages that kick in automatically after hours. These systems help maintain a professional image 24/7.

Here's a message template that works like a charm:

"Thank you for calling [Business Name]. Our office is currently closed. We're open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM Eastern Time. For urgent matters, please call our emergency line at [number]. Otherwise, leave a message or visit our website at [URL]. We'll return your call the next business day."

Before you set it and forget it, make sure to:

  • Test how your message sounds
  • Check that all info is correct
  • Time it (keep it under 30 seconds)
  • Include emergency options if needed

Now that we've got your after-hours calls sorted, let's see how your AI receptionist can tackle common customer questions during business hours.

3. Answering Common Questions Prompt

Think your AI receptionist just handles basic calls? Here's the cool part: it can master FAQs like a seasoned pro. A smart FAQ prompt system keeps your callers happy and informed - no human needed.

My AI Front Desk gets smarter with every call. It picks up new patterns, fine-tunes its FAQ responses, and even handles follow-ups like sending price quotes. The more calls it takes, the better it gets at helping your customers.

Want to know what makes FAQ prompts really work? Check out these real examples:

Question Type Sample Prompt Key Elements
Business Hours "We're open Monday to Friday, 9-5 Eastern. Need details? Visit website.com" Time zone, days, website
Services "We offer web design, hosting, and maintenance. For pricing, press 1" Core services, next steps
Location "Find us at 123 Main Street. Parking available in rear lot" Address, helpful details

The best part? Dialzara's platform lets you set up your FAQ system in just 10 minutes. It plugs right into your CRM, so callers always get the latest info about appointments, what's in stock, or when services are available.

Want your FAQ prompts to shine? Here's what works:

  • Keep it short - 15 seconds max
  • Always tell callers what to do next
  • Keep your info fresh
  • Run it by real customers first

Different businesses need different approaches. A gym might say: "For current membership rates, press 1. For today's class schedule, press 2." But a restaurant would focus on booking tables, while a doctor's office would put insurance info front and center.

FAQs work great for everyday questions, but what about those urgent calls? Let's look at how your AI can handle those high-pressure moments.

4. Emergency Contact Instructions Prompt

When it comes to emergencies, every second counts. Your AI receptionist needs to handle urgent situations quickly and effectively. Modern AI systems can spot emergency calls through specific keywords or urgent tones, making sure these calls get immediate attention.

Here's how different businesses set up their emergency call handling:

Emergency Type AI Prompt Example Key Features
Medical Office "For emergencies, press 1 for the on-call physician; for other matters, press 2." Direct routing, instant response
Property Management "For flooding or power outages, press 1. For security emergencies, press 2." Quick issue sorting
IT Services "System downtime? Press 1 for immediate support. Enter client ID when prompted." Quick ID check + fast help

Make Your Emergency System Work Better:

  • Run monthly tests with real emergency scenarios
  • Keep backup prompts ready if main systems fail
  • Update emergency contacts regularly
  • Set up instant text alerts for urgent calls

Google Dialogflow's natural language processing helps route critical calls fast. When someone mentions words like "flooding" or "injury", they skip the usual menus and go straight to emergency help.

Your emergency prompts should match what your business does. For example, a dental office needs to handle severe tooth pain fast, while a security firm must jump on break-in reports right away. Always put "For emergencies, press 1" at the start of your message - it's the first thing callers need to hear.

Different businesses face different types of emergencies. What's urgent for a dental practice isn't the same as what's urgent for a security company. What matters is getting people connected to the right emergency response team, FAST.

5. Asking for Customer Feedback Prompt

Getting honest feedback from customers doesn't have to be complicated. AI voice systems make it simple and comfortable for callers to share their thoughts. Here's how to nail your feedback collection:

Keep it short and sweet - no one wants to spend more than 15 seconds giving feedback. Make sure callers know exactly what to do, and always say "thanks" whether they respond or not. Give them options: they can speak their mind, punch some numbers, or even text their thoughts later.

The trick? Ask for feedback right after helping them. That's when their experience is fresh in their mind.

Here's what works:

When to Ask What to Say Why It Works
Right After Service "Before you go, would you rate your experience today by pressing 1-5?" Gets quick, honest reactions
Later Follow-Up "To help us serve you better, please share specific feedback after the tone." Lets people share details
After Problem-Solving "Did we resolve your concern? Press 1 for yes, 2 for no." Shows if issues are fixed

My AI Front Desk knows the perfect moment to ask - right after solving the caller's problem. This timing leads to more thoughtful answers.

Turn Feedback into Action

Don't just collect feedback - use it! Watch for patterns that pop up again and again. When serious issues come up, flag them for immediate attention. For example, if lots of people mention long wait times, you might need to adjust your staffing schedule.

6. Scheduling Appointments Prompt

Want to keep your business running smoothly? Let's talk about how AI voice prompts can make booking appointments a breeze for your customers.

Here's what makes scheduling prompts work: They need to be short, clear, and guide callers step-by-step. Start by asking "What day works best for you?" Then offer specific choices ("I have 2 PM or 4 PM available") and wrap up with a solid confirmation ("You're scheduled for [date] at [time]. A text reminder will follow.").

Key elements for effective scheduling:

  • Keep your prompts under 15 seconds
  • Give people multiple ways to book (voice, text, email)
  • Double-confirm bookings both by voice and in writing
  • Make it easy to reschedule if needed
Prompt Type Example Script Purpose
Initial Ask "Let's get you scheduled. What day works best for you?" Opens natural conversation
Time Selection "I have openings at 2 PM and 4 PM. Which time suits you better?" Presents clear choices
Confirmation "I've got you down for [date] at [time]. You'll get a text reminder 24 hours before." Builds confidence

AI scheduling tools do more than just take bookings. When someone calls, the system can instantly send them a booking link via text. This lets callers see all available slots and pick their perfect time. Plus, these systems sync with your calendar in real-time, so you'll never double-book.

Got regular customers? The AI remembers their booking patterns and can suggest times they might prefer. For businesses like medical offices or service providers that need extra scheduling muscle, AI handles everything from last-minute changes to sending automatic reminders.

Let's move on to how your AI receptionist can keep customers in the loop during seasonal changes.

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7. Transferring Calls Prompt

Smart call transfers make a big difference in keeping customers happy. AI systems like Dialzara quickly connect callers with the right team members, making each interaction count.

Here's a pro move: Set up your AI to collect key details before making the switch. This way, customers won't have to repeat their story, and they'll know you value their time.

Let's look at how different transfer approaches work:

Transfer Type Example Script When to Use
Quick Connect "I'll connect you with sales. One moment please." Emergency needs
Named Transfer "I'm transferring you to Sarah in accounting." Specific issues
Choice-Based "Which department do you need: Sales or Billing?" New customers

Picture this: A customer calls about a tech problem. Your AI assistant responds: "I hear you're having software issues. I'll get you to our tech team right away - they're the experts who can fix this for you."

Want your transfers to work like magic? Here's what your AI should do:

  • Double-check where customers want to go
  • Let them know how long they might wait
  • Give them the option to get a callback when it's busy
  • Keep their info handy for the next person they talk to

Think of it like a well-organized relay race - the baton (customer info) passes smoothly from one runner (agent) to the next. Dialzara makes this happen by linking with your CRM, keeping track of who called before and what they like. Each time someone calls, the experience gets more personal.

Next up, we'll see how AI receptionists break down language barriers to help customers from all over the world.

8. Holiday Hours Message Prompt

AI voice systems make it easy to keep customers informed about your holiday schedule. Here's what top companies include in their AI receptionist holiday messages:

When to Use Message Type What to Say
Before Holiday Early Alert "Starting next week, we'll operate on holiday hours..."
During Holiday Current Hours "We're closed for the holiday until January 2nd..."
Urgent Needs Emergency Info "For urgent matters, please call our 24/7 line..."

The goal? Tell callers what they need to know - fast. My AI Front Desk lets businesses update their holiday messages in minutes through a simple dashboard, so schedules stay up-to-date as plans change.

Start your holiday message two weeks before closing. This helps regular customers plan ahead and cuts down on those "Hey, are you open?" calls during busy seasons.

Here's a clear example:

"Hello, our office is closed for the holiday season from December 24th to January 1st. We will resume normal hours on January 2nd."

Got customers who speak different languages? Modern AI handles that too - no extra recordings needed. Like this Spanish version:

"Hola, nuestra oficina estará cerrada del 24 de diciembre al 1 de enero. Reanudaremos el horario normal el 2 de enero."

Your message should tell people:

  • When you're closing and reopening
  • How to reach someone in an emergency

Pro tip: Call your own system to check how it sounds. The best messages feel natural and get straight to the point.

Let's look at how AI can make each customer's experience even more personal.

9. Multilingual Support Prompt

"Thank you for calling. For English, press 1. Para español, presione 2. Pour le français, appuyez sur 3."

Want to serve customers in their preferred language without hiring more staff? Tools like PlayHT and Dialzara make it possible. These AI solutions help you speak your customers' language - literally.

Here's what different language support options look like:

Support Type What You Get Perfect For
Basic Setup 2-3 languages with ready-made responses Local shops in mixed-language areas
Full Package 5+ languages with custom messages Businesses serving global markets

Setting up these prompts isn't rocket science. Here's what you need to do:

  • Check your call logs to see which languages your customers speak
  • Write clear, simple instructions
  • Pick the right dialect for your region
  • Make it easy to switch languages mid-call

Here's a smart move: Get native speakers to review your prompts. They'll catch any odd phrases or cultural mix-ups that might slip through.

Tools like Vonage AI remember each customer's language choice, while Dialzara lets you update all language versions of your prompts in one go. It's like having a mini UN translation service built into your phone system.

When you've got your language options sorted, you can focus on making each greeting feel personal - but more on that next.

10. Personalized Welcome Prompt

"AI-powered voice assistants excel at serving as virtual receptionists, handling tasks such as appointment scheduling, reservation confirmations, and other customer service functions."

Want to make your callers feel at home from the first "hello"? Tools like PlayHT and Dialzara let you create welcome messages that match your company's personality - you can even clone voices to keep your brand's sound consistent.

A great welcome message needs three key ingredients:

  • Your brand's voice (think formal for law offices, warm and casual for shops)
  • Must-know details about your business (who you are and what you do)
  • Clear directions on what to do next

Here's how these pieces work together:

Part What It Does Real Example
Brand Voice Sets the mood Law firm: polished and formal. Retail: warm and friendly
Key Info Gets callers oriented Your company name and main services
Next Steps Shows the way forward Menu options or direct prompts

Tools like SynthFlow and VoiceFlow make it super easy to build and test these messages. Plus, when you connect them to your CRM, your AI can get personal - imagine your system saying "Welcome back, Sarah! What brings you in today?"

How to Set Up and Use AI Receptionist Prompts

Want to slash your reception costs by 90%? Tools like Dialzara make it possible with AI receptionists. Here's how to get started:

Pick Your AI Platform Choose between platforms like Google Dialogflow for complex needs or Dialzara for quick setup. Each offers different voice options and features - pick what matches your business needs.

Feed Your AI Assistant Using platforms like My AI Front Desk, upload key business info:

  • Business hours and services
  • FAQ responses
  • Emergency protocols
  • Contact details for each department

Craft Clear Voice Prompts Your prompts need to be crystal clear and straight to the point. Here's what works:

Situation Sample Script Must-Include Info
Daily Hours "Hi, you've reached [Business]. We're here Monday to Friday, 9 to 6." Hours, business name
Call Direction "Press 1 for sales, 2 for help, 3 for other calls." Simple choices
Off Hours "We're closed right now. For urgent matters, call..." Backup contacts

Link Your Tools Talkdesk AI connects with your CRM to make everything run smoothly. This means your AI can:

  • Greet callers by name
  • Route calls based on past interactions
  • Speed up response time

Perfect Your Setup Run test calls to check how everything works. Keep an eye on My AI Front Desk's call reports and make tweaks based on what you see. Update your prompts when things change - like holiday hours or special events.

Summary of Benefits

Want to know how AI voice receptionists can help your small business? Let's look at the real impact they can have on your operations and customer service.

These AI systems do more than just answer calls - they're changing how businesses handle their daily operations:

Benefit Impact How It Works
Cost Savings Cut expenses by up to 90% Replace traditional reception costs with automated system
Always On Never miss a call (24/7) Handle calls at any time, any day
Smart Routing Handle multiple calls at once Direct calls to right person or department
Multiple Languages Speak your customers' language Support customers in their preferred language

But that's just the start. These AI systems work with your CRM to remember every customer interaction, making each call feel personal. They track everything - from call patterns to customer preferences - helping you spot what's working and what needs fixing.

Better Customer Care Your AI receptionist remembers every customer interaction through CRM integration. It's like having a super-smart assistant who never forgets a face (or in this case, a voice). Each caller gets personalized attention based on their history with your business.

More Time for What Matters While your AI handles routine stuff like booking appointments and answering common questions, your team can focus on tasks that need a human touch. This setup works wonders when call volumes spike.

Room to Grow Whether it's holiday rush or steady business growth, your AI receptionist keeps up without breaking a sweat - no extra training or costs needed.

FAQs

Let's look at how to create voicemail greetings that make callers feel welcome and informed.

What is a good professional voicemail greeting?

A great voicemail greeting needs to be clear, friendly, and helpful. Here's a simple template that works:

"Thanks for calling [Business Name]. I'm on another call right now, but I want to help. Just leave your name, number, and a quick message, and I'll call you back within [time frame]."

Here's how to handle different situations:

When What to Say What to Include
During Work "Hi, you've reached [Business]. We're helping other customers right now. Please stay on the line for the next open rep." Tell them about the wait
After Work "You've reached [Business]. We're closed now but open from [times]. Leave a message and we'll call when we're back at [time]." When you'll return
Holidays "Hi, thanks for calling [Business]. We're taking a break for [holiday] and will be back on [date]." When you'll return

Pro Tips:

  • Keep it short - 20-30 seconds max
  • Tell callers exactly when you'll call back
  • If you serve multiple languages, start with your main one, then add others
  • Use AI to set up holiday messages ahead of time

Remember to update your message whenever your business hours or contact details change. This keeps everything current and shows you're on top of things.

For businesses serving different language communities, make sure your greeting speaks their language - literally. Start with your primary language, then add others as needed.

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