On-Hold Music has become a standard for businesses to use in their telephone system, but it’s important to understand why it’s used, and how to use it correctly to achieve positive results
Passing Time
Studies have shown that music helps the passage of time. When callers are put on hold, time passes by much quicker if music is playing. If they are faced with silence, time appears to drag much slower. The music itself also acts as an audible reminder they are in a queue, whereas silence can lead to callers wondering if they will ever be put through and increases the chance of them hanging up.
Branding Your Business
When a potential new customer is calling a business for the first time with an inquiry, the telephone hold music is their first representation of that business. This is the first opportunity to make a good impression and brand the business before even speaking with the customer. So the music must sound good. If a business is using awful music, what does that say about their standards?
The Right Music
Different businesses need to use different music. If somebody is calling a hotel or spa for a relaxing weekend away, the music can reflect the amenities and services on offer. Relaxing, tranquil music helps the caller imagine what is ahead. If your business sells insurance, something reliable, trustworthy, and dependable would be an appropriate choice. A good royalty-free music library will have music categorized in a variety of themes and keywords to suit any business requirement.
Beatsuite.com provides royalty free on hold music for businesses and has written a hugely in-depth article delving into the science, psychology, and guidelines of using on-hold music correctly. We recommend reading their piece on how to pick the perfect hold music.
Beyond Music
Doing music well is important. You can also give your callers an interactive and engaging experience while they wait to be connected with someone in your company. We offer CUBE.fusion, an easy-to-use platform that gives you the tools for customization and gives your callers a delightful experience.
