When it comes to describing the ideal business to utilize answering services, there’s no single answer. Because the truth is, any business can use an answering service but what makes the solution unique is the specific challenge a business is trying to solve for and its goals for implementation. So, we asked our team to “fill in the blank” with the challenges they hear most frequently from our clients when it comes to the question: “Answering services can be used for which of the following?”
Here’s a quick list of reasons why businesses of any size or in any industry seek out answering services.
Fill gaps in staffing
Finding talent is hard. In fact, it may seem impossible. In 2023, 77% of surveyed employers reported they were struggling to fill their open positions (ManpowerGroup), marking the highest talent shortage in 17 years. And unfortunately, this trend is not projected to change in 2024. So, how can you be in two places at once?
Whether you are a team of one or manage an entire enterprise, one way to effectively manage gaps in staffing is to outsource inbound call answering services. This way, you can focus on what you do best without having to worry about missed calls and opportunities. Having confidence your calls will be handled professionally provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on achieving goals. And, if you do find staff who can assist you, your answering service can be a great back-up for high volume periods or after hours answering.
Take messages
Have you ever called a business, or even an acquaintance, and hung up when you went to voicemail? You’re not alone. As far back as 2016, research indicated that voicemail was “dying,” with an astounding 80% of callers choosing not to leave voicemails because they believed no one listened to the message (CBS News). What can a business do? Pick up the phone.
A virtual receptionist is one of many phone answering services that can reduce the amount of missed calls and caller hang ups. Your callers will be able to leave a message, be forwarded to the right person, or schedule an appointment any time they call. Even when you are asleep.
Be available
You’ve heard it before, but consumer want it all. We’re all guilty of it! We want to reach a business when it’s convenient for us, which isn’t always during operating hours. So how can businesses cater to the demands of a customer base that is growing increasingly more impatient year after year?
By making your business available 24/7 through people, not machines, you can capture those late night requests and questions from customers working on a different schedule than you. Your customers will view your accessibility as a testament to your dedication to earning and keeping their business—which can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Remember, being available can look different for every business. It can include live chat or email monitoring for customers who prefer not to, or are unable to, call your business directly, in addition to other answering services.
Be an extension of your businesses
Your customers want a seamless experience. When they call your business, they want your people. Which is why it’s important to partner with a service who understands your brand, processes, and priorities so they can be you, when you’re not available.
And, if “being you” means answering services need to be bilingual, that’s something to consider as well.
Provide backup support during inclement weather or emergency situations
Should bad weather or an online threat bring your business to a sudden stop, an outsourced answering service will stay active when your phone lines and Internet service are down. Having a back-up plan to help your customers and employees during a stressful time can reduce anxiety and cultivate loyalty.
When it comes to answering the question, “Answering services can be used for which of the following?” the answers could be limitless. Answering services can do everything from reducing payroll and benefits costs to improving customer service. But the greatest benefit is creating enough bandwidth for you and your team to do what you do best.
Interested in learning more about answering or call center services for small business? Contact our sales team today to learn how we can partner with your business. And, in the meantime, we think you’ll enjoy this recent article.
