Abstract: A method for use in a communications system permitting a first party connected to a central platform to receive an out-of-band signal in response to predetermined trigger conditions. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, leaving a voice mail message results in an automatic page to the first party notifying him, or her, of the voice mail message from a second party. Similarly, the first party is notified of alert or alarm conditions and preprogrammed schedule changes through use of the out-of-band signal. Certain predetermined characters may be used to distinguish between the various types of out-of-band messages sent to the first party.