Best Web Conferencing Software for Small Businesses

Why your small business needs web conferencing software

When you own a small business, you need to be extra careful about where you’re going to invest your money. Without a doubt, web conferencing software is something you should consider. First, web conferencing software cuts travel costs significantly. No longer do you or your employees need to travel to other cities or states to have a meeting with a potential client, investor, or partner. Instead, you just need to click the ‘start meeting’ button, and you’re ready to go. Moreover, web conferencing platforms are the perfect solution for employees working remotely, which means lower office rent and higher employee retention.

But that’s not all. When used correctly, a good web conferencing platform can help you to develop a competitive advantage. Customer support is one of the first factors that can significantly improve with web conferencing software. Rather than emailing back and forth, your customer support agents can just schedule a meeting with the customer and provide help in real time, or even ask for remote desktop access and solve the problem for them. Happy customers provide the best marketing you could ever ask for, and web conferencing software offers you all the necessary features to earn them.

Basic requirements for web conferencing

There are only two things you need to run a web conference: a computer and an internet connection. Of course, that doesn’t mean your online meetings will be the most efficient possible. For example, ensuring that you have a reliable microphone so participants can hear you clearly and a good webcam is essential when participating in virtual meetings. Anything else can be seen as an extra that may improve your online meetings but might not be worth the investment.

Depending on the web conferencing software provider you choose, systems requirements are going to differ. That being said, most web conferencing platforms work on all operating systems for desktop and/or mobile. This means that you can join in not only from your desk but also on the go.

How to choose the best web conferencing software for your small business

There are various web conferencing software providers out there offering different features and distinct price points. Consequently, only you will know which one is best for your company, and this means you’ll need to spend some time exploring the market. The very first thing you should do is decide how you’re planning to use web conferencing software. Is it to enhance employee workflow and productivity? Is it to offer one-on-one customer support? Is it to provide a competitive way to reach out to potential clients outside the country? Or maybe you’re looking for a product that answers all these needs and then some.

For example, if you’re looking to do business in Europe, you need to follow GDPR guidelines and to use web conferencing software that acts accordingly. If you want to offer one-on-one customer support, having the ability to take over your client’s computer is essential. Long story short, regardless of what goal you may have, you need to have one: only this way will you be able to find the web conferencing platform tailored to your needs.

Obviously, another factor you need to consider is the price. Each web conferencing software provider has its own price structure, which means that you’ll always find one that best suits your wallet. There are even some web conferencing platforms that have pricing plans designed for small businesses, and others that provide limited free plans that you can use forever.

Recommended web conferencing software for small businesses