Missed Calls = Missed Customers (Don’t Let It Happen to You)

June 17, 2025 | Read Online
Read time: 3 mins…

Welcome back, folks 👋

This week’s Business Builder Bulletin covers:

📞 The phone call that could have been a customer
🚫 Why “No Answer” means “No Sale”
🛠️ 3 fixes to make sure your business never misses a lead
💡 The moment I realised most people won’t call back

Let’s dive in…👇

Last week, I was phoning around some local businesses about the new Didsbury Cricket Club Business Club. This is a great opportunity for local entrepreneurs to network, grow their visibility, and support a local team.

I called one business—no answer. Fair enough. I tried again—still no answer. On the third try a few days later, an automated voicemail told me that no was available right now and to call back later and then just hung up. No option to leave a message, no voicemail, no call back.

Now here’s the thing: I’m persistent. But if I’d been a customer with money in my hand or a big opportunity, I’d have already moved on to the next business that did answer. Most people don’t chase. They choose someone else.

And that’s the harsh truth:
If your phone rings and no one answers, that potential client won’t wait around. They’re calling your competitors next.

Why Every Missed Call is a Missed Opportunity

Whether it’s a new customer, a loyal client with a query, or a referral ready to buy—every single phone call matters. Yet so many businesses lose money daily simply because no one picks up.

Worse still, many have no idea how many calls they’re missing. And if you’re not tracking it, you can’t fix it.

Let’s break it down:

📉 Customers expect instant responses
The average person gives up quickly. They won’t leave a voicemail. They won’t call back later. They’ll Google your competitor and try them instead.

📈 Speed = Sales
Research shows that if you respond to an inquiry within 10 minutes, you’re 4x more likely to close the sale. That’s not a nice-to-know stat—it’s the difference between growth and stagnation.

3 Ways to Make Sure You Never Miss an Opportunity Again

1. Use an Answering Service
If you or your team can’t always answer the phone, invest in a professional answering service. Even out of hours, a friendly voice can take a message, handle simple queries, and make sure you don’t miss a lead.

2. Track Missed Calls
Set up call-tracking software or use your phone system’s analytics. You can’t manage what you’re not measuring. Spot the gaps, then plan your staffing or redirect calls as needed.

3. Prioritise Speedy Follow-Ups
Missed a call? Call back immediately. Even a short conversation can turn a missed opportunity into a loyal customer. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present and responsive.

Final Thought

Answering the phone sounds basic, but in today’s world of instant decisions and short attention spans, it’s one of the easiest ways to win (or lose) business.

Don’t let opportunities vanish into voicemail limbo. Be reachable. Be responsive. Or at the very least—have a system in place that is.

📞 Want help setting up smarter systems so your business doesn’t leak leads?
Let’s talk. Message me today.