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Going on a Summer Vacation? Get a Cloud-based Phone Service

Posted by Ron Kinkade

May 10, 2018 10:47:53 AM

To most everyone’s delight—particularly after a nightmarish winter--summer has finally arrived, meaning a lot of folks will be getting ready for that long-awaited summer vacation. The salty Italian air, waves crashing on the beach, tan skin, hot sun’s rays—you have been dreaming about it for weeks!

Summer Vacation Cloud

The only thing strong enough to break you out of this dreamlike haze and bring you back to reality is the remembrance that you are the owner of a small business, and while you do trust your colleagues, you also know that as the head honcho it is always possible that something only you can handle could come up.

This is a problem scenario, but one with a solution—a cloud-based phone service. A small business phone service offers an array of capabilities that will benefit you and your business no matter where you may be traveling this season.

Let’s take a look at some of the fantastic features that a cloud-based phone service offers:

  • Auto Attendant: Customers are greeted in a big business manner, guided to the correct department. So you can rest assured that even if you are touring the Vatican or at a winery in Florence your customers are being well served.
  • Reach Me Anywhere: Connects your incoming business calls to anywhere, on any device. You won’t have to worry about missing important business calls overseas because your cloud service will connect them all to your phone. Relaxing on the Italian coast? No problem! You are still in reach for “can’t-miss” calls.
  • Voicemail Transcription: Voicemails are converted to text before they’re delivered, so you can read the message if listening isn’t an option—and on vacation, sometimes it simply isn’t.

Using a cloud-based phone service allows your small business to conquer all of the problems travel presents for a small business owner like Roman Empire conquering Italy. And doesn’t every business want a phone system that helps it triumph over all challengers?

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Topics: Voice Communication, Voxox, Cloud Phone, Auto Attendant, Mobility, Business Phone Number, Improve Your Business

A New Way of Doing Business with Cloud Communications

Posted by Ian LeWinter

May 10, 2018 10:41:18 AM

Spring means different things to different people, but in America, one of the grandest spring traditions is Opening Day in Major League Baseball. The tradition dates as far back as 1876 and signifies new hope and promise for every team, regardless of last season's performance. 

Baseball Diamond

Spring can be the start of something new for small businesses as well. If your company is still tethered to a wire-based, legacy phone system it might be worth considering starting this season with a small business phone service based in the cloud instead. 

Best-in-class cloud-based phone solutions can help you shed your old system without losing the functionality—like auto attendants or voicemail to email—that you need. Because cloud communications is maintained by the provider you don’t have to worry about a major installation or ongoing maintenance costs. Changes to greetings, extensions and other features can be made seamlessly over the Internet in no time, even if your tech knowledge is minimal. Settings can be accessed from the device you choose whether a smartphone, laptop or tablet.

Whether you are a baseball fan or don’t know home plate from a lunch plate, it’s easy to see why a small business virtual phone system can be a home run (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves) for small and microbusinesses. So as the season heats up, consider giving cloud communications a tryout.

As longtime Dodgers’ managed Tommy Lasorda once said, “There are three types of baseball players: Those who make it happen, those who watch it happen and those who wonder what happens.”

That goes double for business.

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Topics: Voice Communication, Voxox, Cloud Phone, Auto Attendant, Small Business Productivity

Non-employer Businesses Thriving, Small Business Phone Systems Follow

Posted by Ian LeWinter

May 10, 2018 10:40:37 AM

The entrepreneurial spirit is catching fire amongst U.S. business owners. According to the most recent Census, in 2012 the number of businesses without paid employees reached 22.7 million—an increase of 1.1 percent. 

iStock_000027011551_Medium

All signs indicate this number will keep on growing over the next few years due to the high cost of worker benefits and the unstable economy. Many companies simply do not have the resources to provide for staff.  

One market that will certainly benefit from the growth of domestic non-employers is small business phone systems. That’s because the demand for strong customer service exists regardless of the number of employees within an organization. Calls need to be handled professionally and efficiently to convince customers that a business is at the top of its industry. And of course, missed calls mean missed business opportunities.

A cloud-based small business phone system provides all the features a small business needs to establish credibility and operate like a much larger one. This includes an auto attendant that greets callers with a list of options. The auto attendant can then route customers to virtual extensions.

Additionally, messages can be forwarded as a voicemail to email. These features are easy to access and update right over a Web browser. A business owner simply has to log in and they can have complete control over the system.

If you are one of the newly minted non-employer businesses out there or are looking to become one in the near future, check out options for small business phone systems that project a big business image and increase productivity at the same time. After all, just because you are in business for yourself doesn’t mean you can’t get a little technological help from time to time.

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Topics: Voice Communication, Voxox, Cloud Phone, Auto Attendant, Business Call Routing, Small Business Productivity

Can’t Afford a Receptionist? Cloud Communications Has You Covered

Posted by Ron Kinkade

May 10, 2018 10:35:28 AM

Not ready to fork over the $30-40K that comes with staffing a receptionist to greet your key stakeholders? We don’t blame you. As a startup, every cent counts and spending a pretty penny to support the salary of someone who answers and routes calls can seem like an unnecessary expenditure—especially when you have global expansion and enhanced product functionality on the horizon.

Cloud Communications Receptionist

Photo Courtesy of Flikr User Evan Bench

But the fact is that the job of a receptionist, better known as the gatekeeper of your company, is exceedingly important. It’s why the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that receptionist employment will grow 13.5 percent between 2012 and 2022, resulting in 135,900 new jobs. Simply put, a receptionist is your first line of defense when it comes to your customers. This employee gives your prospective clients insight into your customer service and an indication as to the type of experience that comes from doing business with your organization.

If you can’t afford a receptionist but don’t want to forgo your level of professionalism, it’s time to cast your eyes toward a cloud communications application, specifically one that boasts an auto attendant. These virtual receptionists can transfer callers to extensions based on their menu selection, without speaking to a live operator or receptionist. This cloud communications auto attendant can enable your company to:          

  • Set customized greetings for callers
  • Route calls seamlessly to landline phones, VoIP devices, mobile phones and other auto attendants so they are not given the round-robin treatment when calling
  • Transfer calls to voicemail boxes, submenus or live individuals

Are you ready to have your company sound like a big deal with each and every phone call, even if it’s just one man behind the curtain? Then start considering a cloud communications application like Cloud Phone, provided by Voxox. 

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Topics: Auto Attendant, Improve Your Business

Enjoying Summer Golf? A Cloud Communications App is a Hole-in-One

Posted by Ian LeWinter

May 10, 2018 10:32:41 AM

It’s Friday afternoon and the beautiful weather has you dreaming about sneaking out of the office to meet your buddies for a quick round of golf. You’re entitled to a little work-life balance; you work hard to keep your company thriving.

Cloud Communication App

But what if a critical business call comes in while you are out smacking that little white ball around? You simply can’t afford to leave your small business office without remaining reachable to clients and colleagues.

A cloud communications application lets you enjoy your afternoon round without worrying that you might be missing a crucial or message back at the office. When customers call your business-specific phone number, they are greeted by an auto attendant that presents them with menu options. If they need to speak with you directly, they simply punch in an extension—the same way they would with a wire-based enterprise system—and the call rings to your mobile device.

Additionally, a cloud communications application provides features like:

  • Business-class voicemail-to-email notification
  • Voicemail transcription
  • Instant conference calling   
  • Easily accessible and adjustable web-based settings

A cloud-based system is maintained by a third-party vendor, meaning it is inherently reliable even during storms or other disasters. Best of all, with just one low monthly service fee to pay each month, you avoid installation and maintenance costs as well.

So as you’re making pars and birdies this summer, ensure you have the tools necessary to keep your company headed straight down the fairway. Because sometimes when you sneak out of the office and onto the golf course, important business follows you right out onto the first tee.

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Topics: Voice Communication, Voxox, Auto Attendant, Mobility, Business Phone Number, Small Business Productivity, Improve Your Business

Shape Up Your Personal Training Business With a Small Business Phone System

Posted by Ron Kinkade

May 10, 2018 10:28:29 AM

Whipping people into shape is what you do. As a personal trainer, you meet clients all over the place, building personal routines for each to maximize the impact of the workouts. But take a look at how you are communicating with prospects and clients. Is your phone solution as customized as the workout routines you take such care to create for your customers? Are your business communications in tip-top shape?

Personal Training Business Woman


Image Courtesy Flickr User Sascha Wenninger

If the answer to any of these question is “no,” a small business phone system might do your business some good. A service designed for micro or single-person businesses puts the power of a traditional enterprise phone system in your mobile phone.

A legacy wire-based system doesn’t work for your business because you are constantly on the go and don’t want or need to spend money renting a brick-and-mortar office. But as you are running hills or lifting weights with your clients, you want a professional-sounding system to greet your callers. 

Cloud Phone is a small business phone system that can provide an auto attendant to professionally greet callers with a customizable message. Another useful feature is Reach Me Anywhere, which allows you and your employees to connect with clients from anywhere with any mobile device. If you're tired of listening to your voicemail messages, simply have your messages sent to your email, and read them instead. And because the system is maintained by a third-party vendor, you don’t have to worry about lengthy installation process or hardware upkeep.   

In your line of work, moving around is a daily reality, and you need a phone system that meets your needs. You spend most days taking care of people, leading them towards a healthier, happier lifestyle. It’s time you took care of yourself-and your business—the same way.

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Topics: Auto Attendant, Small Business Productivity, Improve Your Business

Why A Virtual Phone System Is Exactly What Box Subscription Businesses Need

Posted by Erica Berry

May 10, 2018 10:28:12 AM

Monthly box subscription companies are a perfect option for those looking to give a gift or participate in some self-indulgence. They’re convenient, fun and often offer exclusive products at significant discounts – and the demand is high! It’s no wonder box subscriptions companies are popping up to cater to an array of different demographics and interests.

But, with these box subscription businesses booming, how do the people behind them keep up with customer feedback, complaints and inquires? By building strong communication channels between themselves and their customers – including a professional, yet easy to manage, business voice presence.

For box subscription services that don't have a physical office location, a virtual phone system may be the most cost effective voice presence solution. Virtual phone systems offer a ton of features that a small business with a disbursed or traveling workforce may need to effectively and efficiently communicate with customers. Here are some examples:

  1. Customizable greetings allow you to brand your voice presence just as you would your packaging and website. If your box subscription service is called “MeowBox” and is targeted toward millennial cat owners, having a fun greeting incorporating your brand name might be just what you need to secure brand loyalty or persuade a new customer to buy. Customization with a virtual phone service is typically easy to manage so you can change your message as often as you would like, allowing you to test out different messages and keep customers up to date on important information – if certain products are out of stock, wait time on responses, etc.
  2. Mobility means you can take your business phone anywhere. If you’re at a trade show looking for new items for your next box and your business partner is out of town, or if you have team members dispersed across the country, you can all stay in touch with customers conveniently from the smart phones you already own.
  3. Menu options and caller directories let incoming callers choose who they want to talk to. Whether you and your team (or maybe just you), are together in a room or spread across the country, callers can choose which department – billing, sales, product information, package tracking, etc. – they want to talk to. Not only does this give your business a bigger feel, but it lets you organize calls and get the caller to the right person quickly.
  4. Voicemail transcription is a no brainer for a box subscription business. If you’re busy stuffing boxes and trying out potential products, do you really have the time or hands to take notes while listening to a voicemail? Probably not. Voicemail transcription takes the words down for you so you can easily read, save, respond or forward any messages you get.
  5. Easy set up allows you to sign up for a virtual phone system and have it working within minutes. Some virtual phone services are easier to set up than others, but pretty much all are easier than setting up equipment for a traditional phone system. Plus, since the phone system works virtually, you never have to worry about the headaches and costs of maintenance.
  6. Scalability lets you add and subtract lines as your demand changes. During holiday seasons, as subscriptions and gift box orders rise, adding a few extensions or virtual numbers for seasonal help will ensure you always have the services you need, at a price that fits your current situation.

If your business’ phone presence can’t deliver on all these features, then it’s time to think outside the box (pun intended) and sign up for a virtual phone system. We can have you making calls in just 3 steps – get started now

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Topics: Voxox, Cloud Phone, Auto Attendant

Embracing Change with a Small Business Virtual Phone

Posted by Ron Kinkade

May 10, 2018 10:25:28 AM

The one constant in a global marketplace is change. But business owners need not be afraid of it. 

Maybe no area is more subject to innovation and fluctuation than the communications space. Exponential improvements in technology and connectivity challenge even the most motivated business owners to keep pace. If you hesitate to adopt new business tools, you start to fall behind.

Say you have successful, long-standing delivery business. You are known around town and have worked hard to establish your reputation. But the advent of the internet and the onset of competition have increased your need for on-the-go capabilities and better tracking mechanisms to keep up with customer demand. Your legacy phone system simply won’t cut it. But with a cloud-based virtual phone service, you can put the answer to your problems in the palm of your hand.

Girl Using Virtual Phone

Small business virtual phone technology gives you all the perks of legacy phone systems with none of the hassle. Consider some of the benefits:

  • Auto Attendant: Never miss a message and have your calls and messages routed to the appropriate department automatically. This feature offers the highest levels of personalization and cuts out human error.
  • Voicemail-to-Email Notification: If you’re on the road or in a meeting, you’ll never miss that important call. Monitor your voicemails anywhere at any time.
  • Instant Conference Calling: Lets you connect with multiple colleagues or customers from anywhere at any time.

For all these perks, the best feature of small business virtual phones may be their price. Instead of expensive maintenance or replacement issues associated with legacy phone systems, the service is supported entirely by a third-party host and delivered wirelessly.

So even if changing your communications system seems like a frightening proposition, chances are it won’t be long before you’re smiling ear-to-ear.

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Topics: Voice Communication, Auto Attendant, Small Business Productivity

4 Creative Ways to Use Your Auto Attendant

Posted by Erica Berry

May 7, 2018 2:39:50 PM

A Virtual Receptionist does more than just answer calls. When programmed strategically it can be the office assistant you've always dreamed of, but much, much cheaper. A virtual receptionist can transfer callers to extensions based on their menu selection, without speaking to a live operator. This means your business calls will be handled professionally and exactly the way you want every time the phone rings –no matter what time of day.

While setting up your virtual receptionist is very straightforward, we have a few ideas on how to take yours to next level...

Here are 4 creative ways you can use your virtual receptionist to simplify your business phone communications and improve customer service for our callers:

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1. Give it Personality

Your virtual receptionist is the voice of your business. It tells your customers how serious you are about your company and how serious you are about them. Check with your service provider what voice, gender and accent/dialect options you have. Creating an initial hello that is warm, welcoming and inclusive of your brand’s unique personality is a simple way to provide callers with an authentic, branded first impression.

2. Create a Directory

Even if your business is a solo operation adding in one or two extra options in your directory is a simple way to make your business appear bigger and it allows you to track why customers are calling. Just keep it brief enough to hold their attention and use your inbound call data to edit options later on down the road–see which option is being used most and put that first.

3. Share Announcements

In many cases, callers are simply looking for basic information that can be answered by your virtual receptionist. Adding announcement messages such as business hours, location and directions allows you to give your customers the information they need quickly and efficiently – likely cutting down on your phone time as well.

4. Go Pro

When your virtual receptionist transfers callers to voicemail, you want it to sound just right... so, hire a pro! Companies like SnapRecordings offer a network of professional voice talent so you can choose a tone and feel that perfectly reflects your business. They’ll even help with wording!

If you own a business and don’t have a virtual receptionist yet – it’s time we get you up to speed! Check out all that Cloud Phone has to offer (including virtual recpetionists), and see all the ways we can help make your business phone communications as simple, convenient and welcoming as they possibly can be.

Topics: Auto Attendant

4 Creative Ways to Use Your Virtual Receptionist

Posted by Erica Berry

May 5, 2018 12:28:56 PM

A Virtual Receptionist does more than just answer calls. When programmed strategically it can be the office assistant you've always dreamed of, but much, much cheaper. A virtual receptionist can transfer callers to extensions based on their menu selection, without speaking to a live operator. This means your business calls will be handled professionally and exactly the way you want every time the phone rings –no matter what time of day.

While setting up your virtual receptionist is very straightforward, we have a few ideas on how to take yours to next level...

Here are 4 creative ways you can use your virtual receptionist to simplify your business phone communications and improve customer service for our callers:

Expressions-14.jpg

1. Give it Personality

Your virtual receptionist is the voice of your business. It tells your customers how serious you are about your company and how serious you are about them. Check with your service provider what voice, gender and accent/dialect options you have. Creating an initial hello that is warm, welcoming and inclusive of your brand’s unique personality is a simple way to provide callers with an authentic, branded first impression.

2. Create a Directory

Even if your business is a solo operation adding in one or two extra options in your directory is a simple way to make your business appear bigger and it allows you to track why customers are calling. Just keep it brief enough to hold their attention and use your inbound call data to edit options later on down the road–see which option is being used most and put that first.

3. Share Announcements

In many cases, callers are simply looking for basic information that can be answered by your virtual receptionist. Adding announcement messages such as business hours, location and directions allows you to give your customers the information they need quickly and efficiently – likely cutting down on your phone time as well.

4. Go Pro

When your virtual receptionist transfers callers to voicemail, you want it to sound just right... so, hire a pro! Companies like SnapRecordings offer a network of professional voice talent so you can choose a tone and feel that perfectly reflects your business. They’ll even help with wording!

If you own a business and don’t have a virtual receptionist yet – it’s time we get you up to speed! Check out all that Cloud Phone has to offer (including virtual recpetionists), and see all the ways we can help make your business phone communications as simple, convenient and welcoming as they possibly can be.

Topics: Auto Attendant