A message-only mailbox takes messages and turns on the message light of the associated extension. Unlike an extension mailbox, the phone does not ring after the caller enters the extension number. Instead, the system immediately asks the caller to leave a message.
A message-only mailbox does not require an associated extension. In this case, the system cannot turn on a message light; instead, the mailbox owner must periodically check for messages.
Message-only mailboxes are for people who do not have telephones or who are not in the office very often.
Note: The example that follows assumes that the system is programmed so that the Auto Attendant answers primary business number(s). If that is not true, then the "live" Operator sends calls to voice mail only when the caller wants to leave a voice message.
Out-of-town sales representatives
Delivery drivers
Part-time and seasonal employees
Frequent customers.
The calling sequence for a Message-only mailbox is as follows:
An outside caller calls the company telephone number.
The system answers with the company greeting.
The callers enters and extension number on the keypad.
The caller bypasses the telephone and goes directly to voice mail.
The system asks the caller if they wish to leave a message.
The system records a message in the associated mailbox.
The system turns on the telephone message light (if available).
