With a tough economic client and an ever-changing socio-economic landscape, small businesses need all the help they can get to not only survive but thrive. One of the key ingredients for business success is reliable communication, which means having a quality telephone system for connecting with clients. VoIP is one of the leading communication technologies, and is especially beneficial for small businesses. Here’s why!
What is VoIP?
Short for Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP transmits telephone calls over internet connections rather than using traditional telephone lines or copper cables. The sound is converted into digital packets of information which are sent via the internet to anywhere in the world.
What are the advantages of VoIP for small businesses?
There are many reasons why small-to-medium enterprises are switching over from traditional phones or PBX systems to VoIP. Here’s a look at some of the most impactful ways that VoIP improves business operations.
1. It allows for remote working
In this post-pandemic world, there are very few businesses that haven’t adapted their working models to incorporate flexible hours and locations – particularly when it comes to small businesses. This means that technology has to meet the remote working needs of employees, connecting customers with the business wherever you are. VoIP is an incredibly flexible system that allows you to make and receive calls from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. You can operate as a fully remote organisation, or simply a hybrid model, depending on your need. With cloud-hosted systems, there are no limits to communication!
2. It’s simple to set up
Don’t be concerned about complicated technological set-ups because VoIP for small business is easy to install and configure – even if you aren’t technologically inclined. The VoIP software solution is easy to use, with simple upgrades constantly making it even more convenient for you.
3. There are cost savings
There’s no better reason to switch over to VoIP for small business than the immense cost savings. Communication between employees using the VoIP software is free, with calls to a landline or mobile comparatively cheaper than other options. If you have a global operation, which many do now, then you’ll enjoy further cost savings related to cheaper international calls. There’s also no maintenance required, or costly setup fees.
4. It’s scalable
Your business might be a small-scale operation right now, but you have plans to grow – and VoIP is ready to grow right alongside you! If you’re adding more personnel, expanding offices, or adding departments, you simply have to add lines or reassign lines quickly and cost-effectively. This scalable solution works both ways, however, because you’re also able to reduce the number of lines your company is using if you need to downsize.
5. It can integrate
Your current business software such as CRM, emails, and more should be fully integrable with your new VoIP system. This means that you don’t need to perform a complete overhaul, you simply integrate the system and workflows will be streamlined – improving business efficiency.
6. It levels the playing field
It used to be the case that more established businesses and corporates had the edge over smaller businesses, simply because they had the resources to access better technologies and more professional communication systems. This is no longer the case with VoIP as you’re able to connect with customers across the globe without losing money in the process.
7. It increases productivity
When you integrate VoIP technology into your operation, you’re opening up your business to more opportunities for communication. You can now host virtual meetings, conduct international conferences, share valuable documents, and keep the communication lines open – thereby increasing business productivity.
8. You can enjoy lots of features
You can decide exactly which VoIP features are best suited to your business and adopt those cost-effectively. Features you could consider include call transfer, call hold, call forwarding, call hunt, auto-attendant phone menus, conference calls, video calls, and so much more.
9. Better call quality
Finally, you’re benefitting from a much more reliable communication system that allows you to connect using enhanced video quality, with no lagging or dropping of calls. Better call quality means better interaction with employees and customers for a better work experience.
To find out more about VoIP meeting your small business needs, get in touch with ECN today!