Not all virtual receptionist services are created equal — especially concerning the features included and the virtual receptionist pricing structure of those services.
Unfortunately, many companies try a virtual receptionist service only to be slapped with unexpected fees and overage charges. Some are even billed for minutes related to spam calls or unengaged calls.
At Abby Connect, we want to let you know that this doesn’t have to be the norm. We provide services that are transparent and structured in a way that ensures the most bang for your buck. Here are the features to look for as well as the steps you should take when choosing the most effective virtual receptionist service.
Features to Ensure the Greatest Bang for Your Buck
When looking for a virtual receptionist company, there are some key features you should be aware of.
Sometimes, this process can be overwhelming. Company sites may list many features, but what features add value? How do you know what features you need and which features you don’t?
Here is a brief checklist of the features you need to be mindful of to ensure the greatest return on your investment.
- 24/7/365 and custom answering hours
- A receptionist team that is dedicated to your business, offering customized services
- Appointment scheduling
- Bilingual receptionists
- Unlimited account users
- Call blocking and transfers
- Voicemail solutions
- Ability to track and manage conversations through a portal and mobile app
With Abby Connect, every plan, regardless of the monthly minutes, includes every feature.
With those features in mind, let’s dive into some of the most important considerations so you can choose a cost-effective virtual receptionist service provider that boosts your ROI.
Related: How Does Virtual Receptionist Pricing Work?
Billable Minutes Are Legitimate Calls
We understand how frustrating it must be to receive a bill that includes minutes for unanswered and unengaged calls. These minutes add up and burn up a small business owner’s budget. When receiving such a bill, it’s hard to understand how you could be charged for something that added zero value to your business.
The result?
A poor return on investment and an even worse experience. What could have been a great experience, that increased conversion rates, can quickly turn into a frustrating situation. This poor experience (and no longer wanting to work with virtual receptionists) could also hinder the future potential of your business since a quality virtual receptionist service provider can significantly enhance customer service. From increased conversion rates to a more positive reputation — your customers’ calls matter.
That’s why Abby Connect only bills minutes for legitimate calls — those that are answered and engaged. We do not charge our customers for calls that do not benefit them or their customers.
No Onboarding Fees
A low monthly rate for virtual receptionist services is attractive and draws many businesses in. However, once a company signs up and tries the service out, it’s not uncommon for them to receive a shocking first bill.
Outrageous onboarding fees add up quickly, and when it’s all said and done, that “low monthly rate” is an expensive investment in a service provider you’re now wary of working with. Honesty and transparency are important. When your trust feels broken right from the start, it’s tough to get back on track and feel good about the services you’re paying for.
Our first piece of advice is always to read the fine print. Start-up fees can be significant.
The second piece of advice is to start your virtual receptionist service experience off right. Partnering with a company like Abby Connect means you don’t need to worry about hidden fees. What you see is what you get, and that’s so important in business, especially when you’re a small business with a tight, strategic budget. Our virtual receptionist pricing plans ensure no hidden fees.
Beware of Overage Charges
Again, there are attractive packages that some companies offer, and rates may seem reasonable. However, if you underestimate the number of minutes you need, this is another situation that may lead to an unexpectedly high bill.
Overage charges are often a significant up-charge, quickly chewing into your budget and bottom line.
For example, if you signed up for a 100-minute monthly plan but used 108 minutes, those additional 8 minutes will be billed at a significantly higher rate.
Not sure what to expect concerning the number of minutes your business may need? We suggest a free 14-day trial! That way, you can track how many minutes you used in those two weeks to better plan ahead.
You can then look at Abby Connect’s virtual receptionist pricing model to see which plan best suits your needs.
Want more information about virtual receptionist services and how they drive results? Download the Visual Guide to Virtual Reception.
