A live answering service provides businesses, particularly small and medium-size businesses, with professional, trained agents to handle all incoming office calls so your employees can focus on their respective tasks. In principle, answering service companies help small and medium-size businesses by taking care of routine office tasks, so they won’t have to hire a full-time staff to handle this part of operations.
However, not all providers are the same, which means you must be selective when it comes to choosing a service provider for your business.
Vetting answering service companies
Is this your first time hiring an outsourced service to handle your front office calls? Then it’s best to take your time shopping around for the right provider for your business to ensure your business reaps the benefits of this type of service.
Look for providers in your area
While location may not seem like an important consideration for this service since it is remote and/or virtual, it would still be to your advantage if you can find a provider that is within proximity of your location so they can easily visit you should you have concerns you wish to discuss with them in person.
Years in the industry
Longevity is a good indicator of a business’ experience, expertise, and reputation. Suffice it to say that they wouldn’t last if they have if they’re not a trusted company. An answering service company that has decades of experience know what businesses and consumers need as they have seen trends and practices evolve.
The tricky part here is determining whether the provider answered the call to change or if they remained stuck in the past. Make sure to check how the provider has evolved through changing times as well.
Flexibility
A good answering service company offers clients flexible packages in terms of service inclusions and cost. You want a provider that can customize a package according to your specific needs. Remember that their live agents will answer customers’ calls on your behalf, which means they will be representing you to your customer base. And the best way to do that is to have services that address your specific needs and requirements, from answering general questions about your products and services to where to route calls, qualifying leads, and service hours.
Do you need them to answer calls during office hours alone? After-hours, or you need someone to handle all calls 24/7. Be clear about your needs and see if the answering service companies on your shortlist can accommodate these, with the option to add or remove a particular service along the way.
Are you looking for a reliable live answering service? Feel free to call TAB Answer Network at (800) 880-4324 to discuss your needs. You may also leave a message here.