Even with the rise of the internet, chat services and email, plenty of people still prefer to talk to an actual human being over the telephone for answers to their questions and any doubts they may have.

In fact, having a “click to call” button on your website is a way to increase business and receive positive customer feedback.

Many large companies have their own virtual service to answer the high volume of calls. If you’re calling an airline, cell phone company or tech company you’re well-versed in how the systems work. But did you know you can also use them if you have a small business?

Having a virtual telephone service means you don’t have to spend as much time answering phone calls but you can spend more time expanding your business, meeting with clients or researching a new product. Of course you want to be able to listen and interact with your customers and any potential customers, but being tied to a phone all day can be tough.

So below are things to consider if you’re thinking about investing in a virtual phone service.

What is a Virtual Phone Service?

To start, we should cover the basics and think about just what is a virtual phone service or a virtual assistant. There are plenty of other names for this type of service, such as:

• VoIP (voice over IP)
• Virtual Phone Systems
• Virtual Receptionists
• Live Phone Answering Service

While there may be some technical differences and various features here and there, they all perform the same function.

These services are an automated system that can provide service to the client in a number of different ways. They are a 24/7 voice machine that will help them set appointments, make a payment or find directions. There’s nothing too complicated about them.

Why Would You Need One?

Besides what was previously mentioned about freeing up more of your time, why else would you need a virtual phone service?

That may depend on the type of business you have. Let’s say you have a bakery where you serve fresh donuts and goodies every day. The majority of your business might be serving the customers that walk through your door and you’re not on the phone every day. You probably can get by without one.

Let’s say, however, the bakery is just a small part of your store and it also has a restaurant. People will come in regularly or order large batches of a certain product. Instead of having someone be attentive to the phone the whole time, you might have a virtual phone service receive those large orders or help take down reservations.

It’s all about what your business does and what the needs are.

It Saves Money

You’ve already determined that you will need a virtual phone service for your business and you’re trying to be economically smart. With a virtual phone service, you’re not having to pay someone to be at the phone the whole time, waiting for calls. Not only are you saving on salary, but you’re not liable for another person at work.

Additionally, it’s going to be making you money as you’re going to be using your work hours for other, productive items on your agenda.

In addition, many companies are quite affordable and offer different payment options. Some have you pay by the hour while others have you pay by the month. They are all flexible and will adapt to your needs.

Choosing the Right Service

There is no shortage of options out there when it comes to choosing a virtual phone reception service and each offers something a little different. Make sure you go through and do your research to see which options work best for you.

You’ll have to map out exactly what you want the receptionist to do and how customers will be able to interact. Check with your business’ budget and needs before diving into one option over the other.

Many are not just limited to phone services and will also be able to send and receive both texts and emails, meaning you can broaden your reach and communication abilities. Others may be able to make conference calls or have certain routing options when receiving calls.