Here at Reliable Receptionist we find that many business owners across countless industries have some significant misconceptions regarding digital receptionists and what they can or cannot do. Today, it’s time to set the record straight as we review 4 common misconceptions about virtual receptionists and professional answering services.
Table of Contents
1. Nothing but Glorified Switchboard Operators
In the early days of telephones callers had to request to be connected through different phone systems with the help of an operator who sat in a room with a headset and literally connected different cables and different callers. Today, that’s still how many business owners see virtual receptionists—as workers who don’t do anything more than answer and transfer callers to the person they actually want to reach.
But the truth is that virtual receptionists are doing more for their client companies than ever before. Everything from answering basic customer inquiries to sending out courtesy calls, taking down appointments, announcing callers, collecting vital information for follow-up sales, even coordinating and scheduling meetings between stakeholders and staff who may be in meetings or on the road.
2. Impersonal and Robotic Service
Many individuals have an image in their head of a huge, outmoded call center full of drones speaking into their headphones from a script on their screens. Even if your calls are being answered, they say, there’s no way a service can match the in-house expertise or personable attitude you get from a real staff member.
Fortunately, nothing could be farther from the truth. Our teams are closely knit and, when you sign up for the standard package, only 4 or 5 receptionists are assigned to your account. That means that whichever of those five gets to the call first, they know what they’ll be doing. They’ll know your greeting, understand your product, and have whatever access to your system is necessary in order to guarantee your caller is transferred correctly and their information gets into your system.
Plus (because we do this for a living) we make sure that each caller is given the attention and respect they deserve. You won’t find better service anywhere.
3. No Different Than an Automated System
Automated phone directories and virtual receptionists accomplish the same goals, many believe. Both direct phone traffic to different departments, and both can take a message. So why not take the cheaper option and use a program?
Because customers don’t like it. Having a computer answer your phones is impersonal and can be a tremendous turn off for customers, leading to bounced calls and a lower conversion rate. There is no substitute for a real voice.
4. They Can’t Really Replace an In-House Receptionist
Face to face communication can be important. But despite what many believe, virtual receptionists really can replace an in-house receptionist without disrupting your workflows. Simply arrange your account so that your receptionist team has access to your scheduling software, your work and cell phone lines, and whatever else is needed. They’ll take care of the rest, letting callers know when you’re out sick, transferring calls with quick announcements beforehand, and filling in to streamline your businesses.
For more information on service packages, prices, or how virtual receptionist service can work for your business, contact Reliable Receptionist today at (925) 627-4200.
