Even with today’s myriad of business communications tools, sometimes office desk phones are still the best tools for the job.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the digital age.
Answer the call of VoIP
Voice over IP runs your phone calls over data networks rather than the traditional phone networks. This can deliver major cost savings, particularly when it comes to monthly line rentals and long-distance calls. The real benefit of VoIP, though, is greater flexibility when handling calls.
Embracing VoIP lets you create a virtual office switchboard to handle incoming calls in a more professional manner. This can include setting up Interactive Voice Response (IVR) to direct incoming calls to the right department. It can also include setting up hunt groups to ensure callers are connected over to a staff member who can handle their enquiry.
Shifting to VoIP also makes it easier to access features such as checking your desktop voicemail via a smartphone app, or receiving your voicemail messages as an email attachment.
Upgrade your handsets
VoIP handsets feature Ethernet ports rather than standard phone sockets. You can plug the handsets directly into your office data network.
There are plenty of different IP handsets to choose from, to suit every budget. Advanced features can include a large display offering access to your staff directory and support for Bluetooth headsets so you can make hands-free calls.
Overhaul your old handsets
If you’re not ready to upgrade to IP handsets you can give your existing analogue handsets a VoIP overhaul by plugging them into a tiny VoIP Analogue Telephone Adapter (ATA) box rather than the telephone wall socket.
Along with a telephone jack for connecting your handset, an ATA features an Ethernet port on the back for connecting to your office data network.
VoIP makes it easier to automatically divert calls around the office or even off site. This is handy when staff hot-desk around the building or work remotely.
When they’re away from their desk, they don’t necessarily need a physical phone by their side, either. VoIP software can turn a computer, smartphone or tablet into a “softphone” that behaves just like the phone on their desk.
Click here for the full range of communications devices and equipment at Hire Intelligence.
