Why would anyone use a telephone answer service?

There are many reasons to use a telephone answering service and also, there are many different types of telephone answering services too to meet individual needs.

Many services are call centres that will work using a script.  If your business is the type where your clients like to be called Sir or Madam, then this is probably for you – if your clients like to feel that they are calling your office for a personal and individual service, then a call centre probably would not suit you at all and a smaller PA company would probably be preferable.  Back to my first question, why would anyone use a telephone answering service?  Here are some reasons and ideas:-

• Avoiding your callers being met with an answer phone and having to leave a message

• Not missing that call as 75% of callers will not leave a message at all

• Prevent telephone interruptions to your day allowing you more time to work and improve your bottom-line

• Calls answered when you are in a meeting or out networking

• Allowing time off!

• Perception that your business is bigger than it is, even if it’s run from your box room

• To be taken seriously. Some small businesses may have the perception that they are treating their business either part time or as a hobby

• Improve customer service and relationships

• Manage your diary and your time

I know there are many more reasons and I’m sure that you can think of some additional ones too, but, if you are paying to advertise your telephone contact details on business cards, website, directories and social media, shouldn’t it be important to actually answer that call?