Communication – it’s one of the driving factors behind the success of any business. And despite the rise of mobile phones, social media, and email messaging, a good phone system is still relevant. Now, phone lines have their share of doubters and naysayers, but they forget one crucial point – technology is constantly evolving. New phone systems like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) have lots of new features like voicemail, call management, call conferencing, and email to promote business growth.
Let’s take a look at the five main reasons why your business needs to switch to VoIP in 2018:
1. Cost-Efficient
Running a successful business requires you to manage expenses properly. And that can prove difficult when you’re paying tons of money to your phone company for maintaining the phone cables and adhering to industry standards. Since VoIP utilizes the Internet, the costs are a lot less. Also, unlike regular phone services that charge a bomb every time you make a long-distance call, VoIP gets the job done at a fraction of the cost. As far as local calls are concerned, small businesses that switch to VoIP report lowering their call costs by up to 40 percent.
Also, 20 Something Finance reports that a typical landline costs businesses almost $50 a month on average. Your business must bear additional fees for features such as voicemail, caller ID, and call waiting. On the other hand, you can avail of VoIP plans for as low as $25 a month for each line. Thus, your business ends up saving as much as 50 percent by shifting to a VoIP line. The best part is that VoIP plans are usually customizable, which means you can choose which features to pay for.
2. Flexibility
VoIP is supported in any place with a working Internet connection. You simply need to plug it in. This means you’re able to take calls while on vacation and at your residence as well. Apps are also available for your smartphone that enable you to receive and make calls on the move. Since your phone will use the same number, there will be no confusion among your customers.
Call forwarding can also be set on your VoIP phone in different ways. For starters, calls to a single number can ring on multiple phones so that the closest person can answer it. Or, you can arrange for the call to ring through several numbers one at a time. In case nobody answers, the call will be forwarded straight to voicemail where it is converted into an audio file and sent to your inbox automatically. This file gets saved, which means you do not have to check your voicemail every couple of minutes when you’re out.
3. Security
If there’s one thing you can trust VoIP systems with, it’s security. Read the client testimonials for any service like Vonage, and you will immediately realize the level of attention paid to client privacy and security. The Vonage review also mentions 24/7 tech support and customer service in case something goes wrong. But there’s really no reason to worry because VoIP calls get converted to digital data before being sent across the Internet. They may even be encrypted with the help of a VPN (virtual private network). The result is complete protection against hackers and eavesdroppers.
4. Ease of Use
Not only is VoIP easy to install, but it is easy to use and manage too. The online dashboard tracks your account, statistics, and phone usage details. With a few simple clicks, you can upgrade or change your account easily. Relocating is easier with VoIP phones as well. You simply need to plug the phone into the access point or router at the new location. Your phone will work without any hassle.
5. Productivity
A study by Rittenhouse found that companies with flexible technologies like VoIP for remote work experienced a 20 percent increase in productivity. Softphones, call forwarding, and mobile apps decrease on-hold time by enabling you to answer from any place. Other features like conference calls and video calls make hosting company meetings easier.
Virtual phone numbers simplify the hiring process, giving you the opportunity to hire employees from any part of the world. You simply need a computer that has Internet access, a webcam for video calling, and a headset. Not only does this cut down on office equipment costs, but it lets you expand your search for workers.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – the five important reasons why a VoIP system is necessary for your business. Get in touch with a good VoIP service and set up the system in your company by 2018 to reap all the benefits.
