Smartphones have advanced so much that now you can practically run a business on your mobile device.
A small company might cope with using only a smartphone to run its operations, but most need proper phone systems for office work.
Ideally, every business should have Internet and a phone system in place. This way, it will portray a professional image and maximize its capacity to run efficiently. Plus, it will find it easier to stay in touch with suppliers, customers, and employees.
There are lots of different phone systems for small business. They’re ideal for those operating mainly from one location as well as those with many employees in the field.
We’ll start by checking out the major categories of business phone systems available on the market.
What Are Best Phone Systems for Small Business?
To pick the best office phone, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various options available. Do in-depth research before making a decision. Compare your options and then choose one that best suits your needs.
Here are the primary phone systems on the market:
Landline Telephone System
This is what you’d call a normal phone. It’s powered by a traditional telephone company and uses copper wiring.
While landline phones are a traditional option, they’re becoming outdated. Residential and commercial users alike are rarely using them.
To get a business landline phone, you’ll need an on-site phone system. This hardware lets you connect many different phones.
Virtual Telephone System
A virtual phone system is perfect if you’ve got remote workers. Virtual systems connect your callers to the cell phones or personal home phones of your remote employees.
Customers, clients, or prospects trying to reach your employees will dial the phone number of your business.
Through the virtual system, the call is forwarded to your remote worker’s personal phone, whether they’re at their desks or in the office.
VoIP Telephone System
This technology connects your telephone system to your Internet connection through your ISP (Internet service provider).
There are two options of VoIP phone systems.
On-premises VoIP systems require that you have all the equipment and hardware for the system at your place of work.
Cloud-based VoIP systems run completely through your service provider.
An on-premises VoIP system would require IT personnel for repairs and maintenance. Since you must buy all the equipment and pay for installation, it can be costly. However, the benefit is that the system is entirely under your control.
As for cloud-based VoIP systems, you don’t have to buy all the equipment and carry out any repairs or maintenance. It’s the service provider’s duty to keep investing in the latest features.
Mobile Networks
As you make the switch from conventional phone systems, mobile devices will be integrated into any solution you consider.
In the smallest of businesses, it’s possible to rely solely on cell phones.
Usually, this will involve subscribing to a cellular company. Consider the costs for long-distance and international calls, roaming, data plans, and so on.
Service levels and fees are only as great as the network service provider you pick.
Here factors to consider when picking phone systems for small business:
Check Your Needs
Evaluating your needs is the first thing you need to do before choosing the right office phone system.
There are many features provided by business phone providers, which can include all or some of the following:
- Speed dialing
- 3-way calling
- Call waiting
- Call forwarding
- Caller ID
- Priority Ringing
- Voicemail
With the latest technology, your telephone system can have as many features as possible. Therefore, consider the needs of your users.
Pick a system that fulfills these needs for improved productivity and seamless day-to-day operations.
Consider Your Business Size and Structure
A large firm with numerous locations has different needs compared to a small startup business with just a single location.
Do you have a big company with many branches of different sizes and want a premises-based telephone system? In this case, you might need to spend more on expensive hardware items for all your remote locations.
Cloud-Based vs. Landline Telephone System
You’ll need to decide between installing a cloud-based system and a PBX landline phone system. A cloud-based system provides more functionality than a traditional landline does.
If you want dozens of features and multiple telephone model options to choose from, a cloud-based system is your best bet. This will allow you to receive and make calls from anywhere where an Internet connection is available.
Check Compatibility with Your Office Equipment
It’s vital that the business telephone system you pick is compatible with your other equipment, such as headsets and conferencing tools.
If you pick a system that’s not compatible, you’ll end up spending more. That’s because you will need to replace all items that don’t fit into your new phone system.
Consult a Professional
If you have a hard time choosing the right phone system provider, consult an expert. Your business might be lacking a dedicated IT team, which is why you’re having problems understanding the technical side.
Most business phone system providers, including Gamma Telecom, are willing to discuss their product with you. Plus, they can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
If you don’t favor this approach, you could always use a consultant to assess your resources and goals. He can help you choose a service that takes these factors into account.
Choose a Telephone System That’s Right for You
Every company has different needs when it comes to phone systems for small business.
Ask yourself exactly what features you want in a phone system. Consider your day-to-day operations and long-term goals.
For other business tips and resources, check out our blog. We cover everything, from the best ways to grow your business to saving money and marketing your brand.