Like most people, I’ve had more meaningful experiences with companies over the phone than on any other technology. I can’t remember a ‘great’ email or live chat, but I can certainly recall several positive phone conversations. That’s because there’s an intimacy with a voice conversation that you don’t get with the written word.

Small businesses have started hiring virtual receptionists to provide this great customer experience. An impressive person answering calls has the power to change someone’s entire perception of a company and the potential to convert that caller into a paying customer. We break down 4 game-changing benefits of a virtual receptionist that can make a great impact to your small business’ bottom-line.

Benefits of a Virtual Receptionist

Save Time

As a business owner, you have more critical tasks to complete than spending hours on the phone. When you delegate calls to a virtual receptionist, you free up time and resources and are able to focus on what you do best: running and growing your business. A virtual receptionist handles all your calls, from general inquiries to sales orders, leaving you with more free time. Additionally, a virtual receptionist can still connect you with a customer if the call is important or email you about a call-back.

Reduce Stress

Answering the phone when you’re in the middle of an important task can send your stress levels into the stratosphere and that’s why most business owners are investing in virtual receptionists. They lighten the load and take care of call management across your organization. You’ll no longer have to worry about missing an important phone call again. Or saying the right thing to a customer.

Improve Customer Service

Customer service has an enormous impact on sales: In the fast-paced, competitive world we live in, people are anxious to be heard and answered immediately. This has driven up the expectation of excellent customer service. Unfortunately, many companies are leaning on automation which has removed the element of human connection. And human connection is what we all crave. Businesses have discovered that improved customer service has had an amazing impact on revenue:

83 percent of customers would recommend a company to another person after a positive experience with that business.
Loyal customers increase their spending habits by 20 percent.
89 percent of companies believe good customer experiences are essential for customer retention.

Some tips that can improve customer service is by:

Answering calls from customers quicker.
Answering calls in a more professional manner.
Resolving inquiries and complaints quicker.

All the above could generate more revenue for your organization. That’s because good customer service results in higher customer lifetime value (CLTV) — the amount of revenue a customer generates during their relationship with your company.

Improve Upsell Opportunities

Lastly, virtual receptionists aren’t sales agents, but they can help to funnel sales growth in your organization. When a virtual receptionist provides a product recommendation during a call, for example, it could lead to lucrative upselling opportunities, helping you generate additional revenue streams.

An Investment with Great Return

If you’re like me, you’ll remember the last time you received great customer service over the phone. The benefits of a virtual receptionist are hard to ignore and have the power to create connections with customers that help you hit your revenue goals. It seems like an obvious business decision, but we will let you make the call. Check out our #1 rated virtual receptionists for information on services included, pricing plans, and frequently asked questions!