VoIP, as you probably know, stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, which is a telephone system that works via your internet connection. It can save your business a considerable amount on a standard phone bill – as much as 60%. Even if you’re familiar with the concept of VoIP you may not be aware of all the features it offers – they can be of great benefit to your organization and its communications. Even businesses who are using VoIP aren’t always aware of the possibilities, and may currently be using only a third to half of its potential. We’d like to let you know about five VoIP features that are well worth considering for your business.
1) Call Screening
You might not want to admit that you do this, but most people do it and it’s a
useful feature when you don’t want to be disturbed. VoIP allows you to send a designated call to voicemail or to your mobile phone. For nuisance calls you can set it so that the call is disconnected before the caller can fill up your voicemail with unwanted communications. The benefit is that you have control with this VoIP feature activated.
2) Do Not Disturb
Call screening is one way to manage that ringing phone, but a VoIP feature that perhaps isn’t used enough is the Do Not Disturb facility. Studies suggest that if you’re interrupted by a call when you’re concentrating on something it can take ten minutes or more to re-immerse yourself in what you were working on. It’s an easy way to make sure you stay productive and can focus on the task at hand without constant distraction.
3) The Auto Attendant
This really useful VoIP feature is a basic automated receptionist hub. It can enact call transfers and connect callers to voicemail but it can also provide simple information and support. Though it’s basic, it allows some businesses to go without a live receptionist altogether.
4) ‘On Hold’ Music
Some VoIP platforms only offer the same old muzak to play to callers who are on hold, but some allow you to choose your own. On the one hand it’s a matter of taste but it goes beyond that. Classical music, at one end of the spectrum, or heavy metal at the other, might not be appropriate for your business and your clients. Your hold music can be selected so it fits with your company culture and doesn’t alienate customers who are already having to wait for attention. With this enhanced VoIP feature you can also customize the recording, so you can add information on promotions and other marketing or provide your callers with useful advice.
These are just some of the lesser-known VoIP features. Others, including video-conferencing and text messaging capability, can be valuable communication tools for your business as well as aids to productivity. If you’d like to find out more about VoIP and how it can be useful for your business, give Quikteks a call today at (973) 882-4644.