In October, we celebrate Halloween — a time when we can masquerade as vampires. But one kind of vampire is out all year — the time vampire. What is a time vampire? It's someone who continually takes up lots of your time, keeping you from doing other stuff in your life. This person is not a friend, but a fiend — taking all he or she can from you and offering little, if anything, in return. Here's how to deal with time vampires and make sure you do not become one yourself.

Time vampires lurk on the phone.

Phone Tricks

Leaving Messages
When leaving a message, be succinct but provide enough information so the person receiving the message can take appropriate action. If you have a question, ask it. If you have information, give it.

Speak clearly and leave your full name and full phone number, including the area code. Speak slowly and loudly enough and repeat the number so the person can return the call. Never assume the person has your number.

To avoid playing phone tag, leave a specific time you can be reached by phone, if you need to speak in person. If you don't need to speak in person or don't need a return call, say so. But leave a message stating what you need and any action required.

If you expect a return call, please have an operable answering machine. If you are on the phone a lot (like I am) or online a lot (like me), look into getting a voice mail system which eliminates the need for call waiting and for an answering machine. You'll never miss a call again, even if you have roommates or teenagers using the phone.

Making Connections
When you reach a person by phone, identify yourself with your full name and the reason for your call. Be conscious of the other person's time and get to the point as quickly as possible.

Be pleasant and you will get a lot more accomplished in a quicker amount of time.

If you are seeking information, have a pad and paper ready to take notes.