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Businesses operate on certain work hours, but sometimes, customers don't always call in at these specified times. Some calls may come in after business hours or when you're on holiday. In cases like this, a 24/7 phone answering service can be of great help. Here's why.
- Give Customers Prompt Attention
When a customer reaches out to your business, a virtual answering service immediately takes the call at times that you’re unavailable. Your customer gets prompt attention regarding concerns and issues about your product or service. Depending on your setup, the call is transferred to you or the caller’s details and the message is noted down for you to call at your availability.
- Filter Junk Calls
Not all calls that go through to your business number are gold. Some are just nuisance calls that interrupt an important meeting. Filter these calls with the help of an answering service. With a professional operator handling all incoming calls, you get notified of the ones that matter most to your business.
- Boost Business Opportunity
Each call you miss is a lost opportunity for your business. Customer inquiries don’t end after you log off from work because the calls continue to come in. Make sure you get to each call with the help of a telephone answering service. Plus, with an efficient system of taking and receiving calls, it translates to a higher profit.
- Cut Down on Costs
Hiring a dedicated receptionist to answer all business calls 24/7 is expensive – not to mention there are leaves and holiday pay to consider. Cut costs by employing a virtual receptionist. Calls get routed to a live answering centre where an operator answer calls in your business name.
- Eliminate Need for Voicemail
Studies have shown that customers would rather speak to an actual person than receive an automated response. A prerecorded message is unlikely to show empathy, especially if the call is about an emergency. Your customer is bound to feel annoyed when sent to voicemail where a robotic message plays about why you can’t answer the phone.
- Devote Time to Other Business Needs
Addressing customer calls and inquiries are vital to any business, but you can’t focus on this area alone. It is best to delegate this task so you can devote time to other business needs like improving services and products.
While these are just a few reasons why you should consider this type of service, don't just settle for the cheapest call answering service for a small business. There are certain things to consider before you settle for a 24-hour answering service. These include the following.
1. Employs Professional Operators
Not all calls are handled professionally. And you wouldn’t want your calls handled by live operators who aren’t as empathic as your customer hoped they'd be. Make sure that the company you choose to handle your calls employs professionals who are empathetic.
2. Grows with You
As your company grows, so will your needs. Choose a receptionist service that allows you to accommodate additional calls. Plus, opt for one that offers customisation such as personalised greetings and sign-off messages.
3. Offers Online Portal
Some phone answering services don’t have the option of an online portal. Get one that does, so you have access to copies of all your messages, bills, and reports.
When it comes to a call answering service that fits all these criteria, look no further than Alltel’s 24-hour answering service. Manage calls made to your business professionally and promptly, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at 1300 255 835 (1300 ALLTEL) or visit www.alltel.com.au for more information.