If you are in a position currently where you are applying for jobs, now may be the perfect time to re-consider your voicemail greeting. It is time for the silly message you've had on your mobile from your school days to go. Whilst it may have been a laugh at the time, the chances are that it is now impeding on your chances of making a good first impression with your future employer.

If you are struggling with how you should structure your greeting, try following the steps below to help you:

1. Your name

2. A statement that you cannot take their call right now

3. An invitation to leave a message

4. When they can expect a return call from you

As a general rule of thumb try to keep your message no longer than 20-25 seconds.

The sample message below is an example of a professional voicemail greeting.

"Hi. This is Joe Bucki. I'm sorry I can't take your call right now. If you would like to leave me a message, I will make sure that I get back to you as soon as possible."

If you are concerned about getting your voicemail message just right, try rehearsing it a few times before doing the real thing!