If you’re a small business owner, it’s probably because you’re passionate about something — namely, whatever is at the core of your business. And while you’re likely to love and appreciate your customers, you’re probably not so passionate about answering the phone.
When you’re running a small business, there never seems to be enough time to get things done. That time is reduced even further when your phone is constantly ringing, and you’ve got to stop whatever you’re doing to answer it. If this sounds like you, a professional answering service may be the solution to boosting your small business productivity.
More time for the things that matter
The majority of calls to small businesses are common, frequently asked questions. If your business takes phone orders, the frequency of those calls can add up quickly as well. These are the types of calls that can be handled by an answering service.
By using a phone answering service, you’d actually save more time than it takes to handle the calls themselves. According to at least one study, it takes an average of 23 minutes to re-focus on work after an interruption such as a phone call — so if you’re constantly stopping to pick up the phone, your entire day is a productivity distraction.
Take only the important calls
While most calls from customers or clients can be answered quickly with basic information, there are a few calls you shouldn’t miss. Again, that’s where a professional answering service can step in and make sure you’re connected to the people you need to speak with — whether it’s a vendor or supplier, a customer with complicated questions, or a big sales opportunity.
Answering services can also be easily adjusted, so that calls come through directly to you when you have free time or a period you’ve set aside to deal with phone calls and are redirected to the service when you’re ready to get back to your core business work.
Boost your business image
One of the primary complaints people have about small businesses is the difficulty in contacting them. With a phone answering service, your customers will always reach a real, live person who can answer their questions, whether it’s the business owner, an employee, or a service operator. What’s more, answering services give you the option of having someone available 24/7 to answer questions, take orders, and even field emergencies.
An answering service is a convenient and beneficial solution for any type of small business, from general product or service companies to businesses in specialized industries like medical, legal, real estate, and more. Businesses of all sizes are increasingly turning to professional answering services to save time and money while providing the best possible service for their customers.
