| By :
Mark Etinger
If you're setting up a business phone system, you've probably already realized one thing — your business network will have very little in common with the system you use at home. In other words, you're not in Kansas anymore. Feeling lost? Not to worry. Our handy checklist should give you an idea of what to look for in a business phone service: 1. Go VoIP (or go home). Your standard phone system might work just fine at home, but for most businesses, investing in a VoIP network is a wiser decision. Short for Voice-over IP, VoIP technology makes it possible to send and receive phone calls over your office's high speed internet connection — you know, that thing you're already paying for. Plus, VoIP service allows for free in-network calls, affordable long distance, and a variety of other features. 2. Speaking of features... Features are an important part of any VoIP hosted phone system, and they can help you tell a good deal from a great deal when you're shopping around for providers. There are a few basic features that every company should offer — conference calling, voicemail, call screening, and call forwarding, to name a few. After these basics, consider the needs of your specific business. For example, a company with a large amount of international clients might require a plan with free long distance. Alternatively, a business that provides most of its customer service to domestic callers over the phone would probably prefer VoIP service with hold music and queued calling. 3. Count to (and on) 800. Investing in a VoIP hosted phone system is the perfect time to get your company set up with a business toll free number. Even if all of your clients are local, a toll free number (beginning 1-800, -877, etc.) will increase the credibility of your business. Believe it or not, toll free numbers have been shown to increase consumer confidence and, in some cases, even boost sales. Plus, most VoIP providers offer vanity numbers as well, so you can create a memorable number featuring your company's name. If you already have a business toll free number, be sure to find a VoIP provider that can transfer your number to your new account. 4. Plan for the future. In business, anything can happen. In the next five years your business could double in size, or perhaps be reduced to a much smaller staff. To prepare for the unpredictable, choose a VoIP business phone system with a flexible plan that will accommodate your changing needs. Even if your company winds up opening a new branch on the other side of the country, the right VoIP provider will be able to expand your network to include both locations. Follow these four tips, and you'll be well on your way to investing in a business phone system that will allow your company to prosper.
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