How Long Is "Too Long" For a Return Phone Call and Why is Voice Mail Bad??

A good long-time client of mine suggested today that I was "too busy" for his referral business.   This is because the last three times he has called me he has gotten my voice mail.  

In each case, I returned the call no later than a few hours later however he was discouraged I didn't answer immediately.   I also suggested that email is sometimes answered faster.

There is no doubt in my mind that you should answer your phone immediately when you can.  

However, what is an acceptable turnaround time for a return phone call when you are not available??   An hour, 2 hours, half a day, same day?  

I have a three-person team and if I am in a loan app or with a client, or dealing with loans in the pipeline, it may take a few hours for me or one of them to return a phone call after you leave a message.  

However, for some people today, this is unacceptable.   I don't understand the impatience.

When I call my Doctor or Accountant or my Attorney, he rarely answers at that moment.   I usually have to leave a message with a member of his staff.   In most cases, they return the call that day.   In some cases, they take a day or two or three. 

I researched them all before choosing them.  They all came highly recommended from trusted friends or associates.  I trust them.  I respect their professionalism.   I know they have other clients.  Yet, I am loyal to them.

I am certainly not going to change doctors, accountants or attorneys because I got their voice mail the last three times I called them and they called me back the same day.  

That kind of impatience could jeopardize my life, health and financial well-being.

The very best real estate agents and lenders I know are the busiest today.  This is because, like my doctor, accountant, and lawyer, they are very good at what they do.   As a result, they get busy.  

These agents and lenders may not be as easily reached right this very minute.  However, they all answer their calls and emails the same day...usually within an hour or so.

Is it more important today to talk to someone right now, at this very minute, and risk the quality of the professional or is it more important to get someone talented as soon as they are available in a reasonable time-frame?

I choose the latter.