Each time your business phone rings, your company is one step closer to increasing its profits. However, that is only true if you actually answer the phone before the caller decides to hang up.
Why should my business phone always be answered?
Picking up the phone is one of the easiest ways to set your small business apart from the competition. It tells your customers that you care about their needs and are capable of meeting them in a timely manner. Speaking directly with customers can also help prevent misunderstandings that might occur if you attempt to communicate with them using other methods. Below we’ll take a closer look at four of the key reasons why you never want to ignore an incoming phone call.
Most people hate leaving voicemails
It isn’t uncommon for people to feel as if they are being put on the spot when asked to leave a voicemail. Therefore, they are more likely to hang up as opposed to recording a message full of stuttering, long pauses and awkward phrasing. With a majority of people preferring to hang up rather hang up than leave a message, it is imperative to pick up the phone if you wish to see your business grow.
Missed calls lead to missed opportunities
In some cases, a customer will purchase a product or service from the first company that is available to answer questions, provide information, or schedule an appointment. Therefore, if you miss a phone call, there is no guarantee that the caller will wait for a response. Ultimately, you could miss out on a lucrative relationship with someone who may have evolved into a loyal customer for years to come.
Answering the phone shows your customers that you value them
As a general rule, you only answer the phone when someone important is calling. Failing to answer your company’s phone may indicate to a customer that you don’t value that person’s business. Even if you can’t personally handle each call that your business receives, it’s important that there is always a person available to do so. If you don’t have the staff to manage your calls, an answering service is a simple, cost-efficient option. When you partner with a live answering service, you can rest assured that there will always be friendly, professional agents ready to be there for your customers whenever they have a question, comment or concern.
Missing calls makes you look unprofessional
One of the key characteristics of a true professional is always being available to talk to your customers when they need you. Whether they want to place an order, schedule an appointment, or ask a question, it is critical that you don’t let their calls go to voicemail.
Consistently sending your callers to voicemail will not only give the impression that you don’t care about them, but it can also make you appear disorganized or incompetent. As a result, they will trust you less, and be more likely to take their business elsewhere.
