Guide to Getting the Best Business Phone Service in NC
Choosing the right North Carolina business phone service is an important decision for any company. Just as your website and physical location, the phone is one of the primary ways in which customers, clients and employees alike contact you.
Because of the faceless nature of the internet, having a more personal means of contact through the phone also adds legitimacy to your business. Given these benefits the advantages of a solid business phone service is apparent, however, how to go about finding the right one isn't always as obvious.
North Carolina Business Phone Service Options
Today, North Carolina business owners can choose from a multitude of phone services. From cell phone plans for you personally and your employees to international calling plans there's a North Carolina business phone service for each and every type of company.
Traditional Business Phone Lines in NC
Cable phone lines are the original method for delivering business phone services in North Carolina. Phone companies like AT&T have been offering this sort of business phone service for years. The benefits of this style of phone service are the clarity and consistency because it isn't going to depend on an internet connection.
VoIP Business Phone Service in North Carolina
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone services make use of the internet rather than phone lines to route telephone calls. The appealing factor with this form of business phone service is the financial savings. It's also an ideal choice for North Carolina businesses that do not presently have land lines available.
Vonage is an industry leader at providing VoIP business phone services in NC and the first significant provider of this sort of service. Comcast has also recognised the benefits of this cutting edge delivery method and has begun offering business VoIP phone service of its own.
Using Skype for Your North Carolina Business Phone Service
Skype has obtained popularity over the last few years, providing an original type of phone service which is centered around video chatting that uses VoIP technology. Many North Carolina business owners like having the ability to see the people they're speaking with along with the fact that Skype is currently a free service if you are making telephone calls from one computer to another. If you want an online number that people can call from their phones local rates will apply.
International Calling Services for North Carolina Businesses
Phone service that incorporates international calling is a good option for any company that routinely makes or receives calls from overseas. Many local calling plans will include the United States, U.S. territories, Canada and Mexico. If you need plans for calling outside those locations it is best to consider adding on an international calling plan to your local phone service.
Popular Business Phone Features to Look For
Business phone services today come included with numerous calling features depending on the plan you select. These features can make your business more productive and provide a better customer service experience. Below are popular calling features that many businesses require.
- · Voicemail
- · Call waiting
- · Three way calling
- · Caller ID
- · Call transfer
Most North Carolina phone companies have their own unique, advanced calling features that may be added onto a plan. For example, Vonage has what they call Visual Voicemail which transcribes all of your voicemails and transmits them to you either as an email or text. It is best to look through each provider's calling features to find out which ones will benefit your business best.
One very important feature that should not be overlooked when you're getting a new business phone service in North Carolina is the ability to maintain your current number. Most phone companies are able to help you preserve your current number but verify this before signing up for a service.
Another thing to consider is the need for a toll free 1-800 number. There are a number of providers who specialize in creating 1-800 numbers for businesses.