I'm sure you have seen singles magazines featuring personal ads of single women looking for romance. In the old days you responded to these ads by writing a letter. Now they have switched over to using a fee-based voice mail system for people to make contact. You respond to a woman's ad by calling her voice mail and leaving a message.

When you find an ad that captures your attention you really need to plan in advance what your script is going to be when you leave a message. It's very critical that you make a favorable impression when you leave a message. You will be judged on first impressions and what you say and how you say it can make or break you.

I have made a list of steps to take to make a good impression when calling her voice mail:

1. Read all the personal ads of single women in the magazine very carefully. Circle the ones that capture your attention.

2. Before you call her voice mail make some notes about what you are going to say. I highly recommend that you don't read your script over the phone. It just won't sound natural and will not sound sincere.

3. Be sure and speak very clearly, don't stutter, and do not end each sentence with "ah" or "um."

4. Do not speak with a boring and monotone voice. Make your voice sound lively and energetic.

5. Start off your message by telling her why her ad attracted your attention.

6. Then describe yourself honestly (be sure and don't lie): your age, height and physical characteristics, your educational background, occupation, and personality traits.

7. Next, talk about the things that you like to do, your interests, hobbies, etc.

8. Now, express the type of woman you are looking for and don't be afraid to mention that you are looking for a serious relationship.

9. Leave her your phone number and be sure to say it clearly and slowly so she won't write down the wrong number.

10. End your message with, "I look forward to talking to you soon. I'd love to hear from you so we can get to know each other better."

There you have it. This advice will help you plan in advance so you can make a good impression on her. Good luck and I hope you get lots of calls back from the single ladies who placed their personal ad.