When someone is called as bishop they suddenly become very popular. Part
of this popularity is the perpetual ringing of the phone. Of course
each bishop has an executive secretary that will set up appointments and
help organize the busy schedule. But that won’t stop the phone from
ringing. People feel like their issue is important enough to streamline
communication to the bishop. From someone having a bad day to someone
looking for a rent check as soon as yesterday. I have known bishops that
have simply plugged in their answering machine and stopped answering
the phone. But then the bishop has to find time to sit down, listen to
each message, and then figure out how to get the information to the the
Executive Secretary to fit it in the schedule.

Luckily you are a leader a decade into the 21st century. Technology can make life easier. The technology I am referring to is Google Voice, and every Bishop needs it. In short Google Voice is a free service provided by Google
that lets you handle phone calls more effectively. You pick a number to
use and then adjust your settings to make your life much easier.

Here is how it will change your life:

The Phone Stops Ringing

Typically the phone rings and you yell to your wife, “Let the machine get it!” This is no more. Simply adjust
the Google Voice settings so no phones ring when a call comes in. It will take
the caller directly to voice mail. The voice message is then emailed to you or you can get the message through your phone or even through a smart phone app.

Block the Unwanted

Ever get a call and wonder, “Who is
this person and how did they get my number?” Well it will probably
happen time and again. Makes you wonder if your phone number is written
on a bathroom wall somewhere with the message, “Call this guy and he
will pay your rent.” If this is the case simply add the number to be
blocked and the next time they call they will hear, “We’re sorry you
have reached a number that has been disconnected.”

Delegate, Delegate, DELEGATE

Most of the phone calls the bishop gets can easily be delegated to someone else. Google Voice
makes this easy. Simply email the message to your counselors or the
executive secretary. “Hey Brother Sekritary, this message is from Sister
Nessomhelp can you call her back and set up an appointment?” Very
slick!

IT’S FREE

Then I guess it is worth a try

To learn about other features of Google Voice click HERE.

So how do you set it up? Simply go to www.google.com/voice and sign on to your Google account (or set up a Google
account first). This is where it gets fun because you get to pick your number. It will ask you for your area code and/or a word,
phrase or number. Your number could be (801) 555-BISH or 801-2RE-PENT
(Depending on availability of course). Once you select a number you are
ready to adjust your settings and improve your efficiency.