If you’re reading this, odds are you’re looking to start your own business and you don’t know for sure which phone system features you need. Well, you’re not alone! Up to 17 million new small businesses will be formed this year alone, according to a 2021 study by Intuit, the owner of Quickbooks. And each one of them is going to need a way to communicate with their customers and potential clients. Most will choose a VoIP phone system, as it’s the most affordable option. However, which phone system fits you the best? There are hundreds of phone system providers and even more phone system features to pick from – even some you may not understand.
Don’t sweat; we, here at Crocker Communications, have compiled a brief list of essential phone system features for businesses who’re just starting out. And we’re not just telling you what they are but how they will benefit you in the long run! Read on to find out more.
1. Appear Larger Than You Are with a Customizable IVR
We’ve all called a business and been greeted by a voice reading a predetermined menu. You can either press a button after the prompt or speak your response to get directed to the right person. That’s an IVR or an “Interactive Voice Response.” It can take you to a specific number, department, or even a voicemail box. Having an IVR gives your customers the feeling that your business is already booming. After all, only the big names have an IVR, right? But in reality, phone system features like this will help you deal with a large influx of calls by routing them to the right place when you – or your team – are otherwise occupied.
2. Never Miss Important Calls with Find Me/Follow Me
We know that life as a startup can be hectic. You’re running around trying to keep all the plates in the air and spinning. That means you’re rarely at your desk for more than an hour or so a day. Having a phone system that can automatically forward your business calls to your personal phone is a wonderful phone system feature to have. Many phone systems will allow users to forward their calls to a different number after certain criteria are met. Perhaps it’s after 6 rings, or after 3:30PM. It doesn’t matter. What does matter is that you’re able to take calls wherever you go.
3. Maintain Mobility with a Secure Softphone Application
Many small business owners want to keep their personal and professional lives separate. But it can be difficult when you’re as mobile as you are (see previous point). Which is why it is crucial that the phone system you choose has a softphone application. This phone system features will give you a secure way to make and take calls on your business number from your personal device – whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. No sharing your cell phone number required! For those who want to manage their phone system on the go, while preserving privacy, this phone system feature is a must.
4. Protect Important Data with Disaster Recovery
While a good VoIP phone system should run smoothly 24/7, it’s important to plan for potential disasters – no matter how “far-fetched” it feels now. That’s why one phone system feature to never skip is disaster recovery. Your provider should always have a disaster recovery plan in place, ensuring no vital information is lost if your phone system goes down. This includes remote access to your system, intuitive data monitoring systems, and backup internet solutions.
5. Keep Track of Important Information with Call Recording
This phone system feature is a great way to provide excellent service to your customers. How? Well, you’ll be able to review all inbound and outbound calls, making sure no important client details were missed. Plus, you can give effective feedback to your team on how they handled a particular call or customer. Some VoIP phone providers also allow you to integrate your system with your CRM, allowing you to store all client conversations in one handy location.
It is also important to note that conference calling is also a must-have when it comes to phone system features. This allows you to communicate effectively with your teammates anywhere in the world, as well as send files, instant messages, and even screenshare.
Get the Phone System Features You Need with Crocker Communications
As a third-generation, family-owned business the Crocker Communications team knows what new businesses need to succeed. Which is why our hosted PBX system is chockfull of all these essential phone system features, and more, at a price that won’t break your budget. Interested in learning more? Feel free to reach out to us! We’d be honored to take care of you.
