A business phone network is one of the most important services a company can buy. Businesses rely on their phone services to speak to customers and run various necessary company functions. This is why, when choosing a business phone service, it is important that companies make informed decisions. Not all businesses realise that the phone service they purchase can make a huge difference to the quality of their operations.
So, what should you be looking for when selecting a business phone service? Let’s discover some essential things to consider that can make your search easier.
Type of Connection Required
Primarily, when deciding on a business phone service, it is essential that you take some time to think about the type of connection that will be best for your purposes. For instance, do you want a traditional landline or a VoIP connection? Whereas landline systems work by using a telephone company’s copper wiring, Voice Over Internet Protocol connections involve delivering your phone service over the same internet connection you use to get online.
Landline connections have been in use for years now and as a result are favoured by businesses who feel more comfortable using systems they have used in the past. However, while VoIP systems are typically cheaper to install and maintain, these do not tend to include 911 services, directory listings or other common phone provisions. In addition, companies based in remote areas with poor internet connections prone to electrical issues may also prefer to use a landline system over VoIP due to its tried and tested reliability. As always, make sure to shop around before committing to a type of business phone connection.
Call Features
The days of business telephones being used solely for one to one calls are well and truly a thing of the past. When finding a business phone service, look out for innovative telephone features such as automated-attendants, voicemail and call recording. Conference calling, web conferencing and presence tools are also available from various network providers and can be used to allow employers and employees to see when their co-workers are available for communication purposes.
Some business phone systems also offer mobile apps that allow users to access the business phone line from their smartphone. This is a major benefit for staff members who work from home or part-time, or deal with clients in different time zones, and ensures employees can always access necessary functions of the business. Other benefits offered by business phone service providers include discounts on streaming services, sports coverage perks, and worldwide access to calls at a reduced rate.
Cost
As a business, it is useful to think of your phone service purchase as an essential overhead cost. Without a reliable business phone service, it is difficult to enjoy direct conversations with staff, customers and clients. For this reason, it is sensible to factor the cost of setting up and maintaining a business telephone service into your regular outgoings.
Depending on your financial situation, your preferred cost structure and payment method can also impact the type of business phone service you choose. Equipment and installation costs as well as any upfront license fees must be taken into consideration. These costs can also be scaled in accordance with the current size and intended growth of your business. Hiring staff usually involves adding new telephones to your system, so when looking for a service provider, make sure to check the price of adding new people to your network as this can vary.
In order to ensure that your business telephone services enhance your company operations, it is vital that you invest in a provider that meets your needs. Remember to do as much research as you can to discover more about the different types of business phone system options out there.
Good communication with employees as well as customers and clients is generally a precursor to business success. Take a look at this useful guide for a brief overview of the history of business communications.
