Most business today is done online. Even the smallest of businesses have websites, e-commerce stores, and social media profiles, and global brands utilize the internet to maximize their reach, have international success, and manage their enterprises. But, that doesn’t mean that there is no longer a need for a business phone line.
Most of us no longer have landlines at home. We manage with our smartphones and even those of us that pay for line rental for our internet connections, never bother to plug a telephone into it. We’re with our smartphones all of the time, we get free minutes, and most of our personal communications are over text or the internet anyway, so there doesn’t seem to be a point. So, if you own a small business, the obvious answer is to just use your cell. It’s with you all of the time, it’s the only phone that you ever use, and your customers and clients can always reach you on it. But, this can be a mistake.
To start with, it means that you are always at work and can never take a proper break. But, on top of that, there are plenty of reasons that your business needs a telephone line of its own. Let’s take a look at some of them.
It’s Professional
Listing your cell number on business documents and your online contact details might be easy, but it’s also unprofessional. If you want to be taken seriously as a professional, you need to list a separate landline number.
Human Contact is Always Beneficial
People like talking to other people. They trust them, and they value what they have to say. Having chatbots and other services on your website is great. These are fantastic tools that can provide your customers with a useful service. But, they don’t beat human to human contact. Phones are perfect for this. Give your customers an alternative to online contact without having to come into your store or office. Let them give you a ring.
It Gives You a Way to Manage Your Calls
If you use your cell, you have to field every single call. You don’t know who is calling or why you’ve got no way to filter spam calls or direct calls to the right departments. You can’t outsource answering. Have a phone line, and you’ve got options which could save you time and money.
To Show Your Customers You Care
If someone leaves a message or sends an email, they might get a standard out of office when no one is around. It’s meaningless. Calls show your audience that you care about their needs, even when you can’t answer them. This article on voicemail greetings can give you some tips to help you set your voicemail up.
A Business Line is Clearer than a Cell
Cell phone signals are much better than they used to be. But, it still depends where you are and what you are doing. A landline usually offers clear and consistent service.
Instant Communication
91% of people in the country have their phones on them or within reach 24/7. Having a phone gives you a way to reach your customers, and for them to contact you instantly.
