BT offers sexy voicemail tips

Britain is a nation of galloping gossips, shy whisperers and mysterious unknowns when it comes to leaving voicemail messages, but BT is determined to put and end to that.

The latest research from BT's 1571 messaging service shows that the British phone message etiquette leaves a lot to be desired.

In at number five on the top voicemail sins countdown is the "gabbler" who drones on and leaves too much detail. The "ditherer" is in at number four for forgetting to leave a reason for the call. Those who speak too quietly or quickly occupy positions two and three.

But the type of person getting blood pressures soaring is the caller who forgets to leave a name or number.

In an attempt to overcome Britain's voicemail phobia BT has compiled a list of do's and don'ts with the help of voice consultant, Yvonne Gilan.

She recommends callers put on a sultry smile before they start to talk to try and charm the recipient of the message. Size does matter, she said, so keep the message short and simple.

But don't gabble, Gilan added, speak clearly and articulate your name and number.

However, if this is too much to remember, Gilan claims you can always say you will call back later.