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The 7 VoIP Features Small Businesses Need To Have

The 7 VoIP Features Small Businesses Need To Have

Like it or not, every call counts. Whether we’re talking about a new customer, a big sale, or just a quick check-in with your team, each time the phone rings, a new opportunity arises.

That’s exactly why having a reliable communication system is critical for business success. It is one of the main ways customers reach out to you, after all. Being reachable at all times, even if your client is heard via voicemail, gives your business a competitive edge and shows that you actually care.

Business woman on a call on her laptop

Although different businesses have unique demands (a local flower shop won’t need the same equipment as a tech SaaS company, for example), there are certain VoIP features that should be on everyone’s shortlist.

Join us as we unpack the essential features every small business should look for in a phone system to guarantee your business plan isn’t filled with dropped calls.

Call handling features

Effective call management is at the heart of any thriving VoIP system. By having standard features like call forwarding, auto-attendants, call queues, and voicemail-to-email, your customers are quickly connected with the right person without getting lost in long and confusing call transfers.

VoIP system

These features not only enhance your communication but also help your business have a more professional image.

Other tools like conference calling, call parking, and HD calls are also great additions to look for in a provider.

Mobile app

Most businesses need to be available at all times. So, being mobile is a must, especially in a world where hybrid work is getting more and more common.

A solid mobile VoIP app allows users to take business calls from anywhere, making your team flexible and available.

Up to 20% off for 12 months with Talkroute
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Call analytics and reporting

Data-driven decisions start with clear insights. Call analytics and reporting tools are essential to ensure metrics are being monitored. You should be able to easily see your call volume, call duration, peak times, and performance metrics.

A reliable VoIP provider, like Talkroute, will even show real-time KPIs and metrics so you’re able to understand what’s working (and what’s not) on the spot.

Talkroute

Editor's rating:
Starting price: $19/mo
Main features
  • Tailor system to your needs
  • Use on any device
  • Scales with your business
  • Track performance effectively
  • Highly customizable
  • Multiple device compatibility
  • Unlimited multi-digit extensions
  • Extensive reporting
  • No international numbers
  • No faxing
Summary
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As the traditional office phone fades into obscurity and we embrace the future of communication, virtual phone systems such as Talkroute are at the forefront of innovation.

Since its launch in 2013, Talkroute has established itself as a reliable and effective service. With prices starting at just $19 per month, this VoIP provider is home to a clean interface and an array of highly intuitive features that allow it to stand out from the crowd. The cherry on top is that users can get a discount of up to 20% for 12 months, and can even test the platform before committing by taking advantage of its 7-day free trial.

Special offers
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Up to 20% off for 12 months with Talkroute
No-contract VoIP provider with Talkroute
7-day free trial of Talkroute
Free demo of Talkroute

AI-powered tools

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept. AI-powered tools like automatic voicemail transcription, smart call routing, and sentiment analysis save you time and enhance customer interactions.

Some systems even provide AI-generated insights for sales and support teams, which is perfect for quickly analyzing tons of data.

Third-party integrations

Your VoIP system shouldn’t operate in isolation. All of your software networks should connect with each other nicely.

Headset headphones on laptop next to telephone

So, when looking for a new VoIP provider, consider the software you already use.

Your workflows will run more smoothly by seamlessly integrating your virtual phone system with tools like CRM platforms (think Salesforce), help desks (like Zendesk), or productivity software (such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace).

Security

Any type of sensitive data needs to be protected, and there are few things that are more sensitive than call information data, which usually contains highly private information.

Key security features to look for include end-to-end encryption, secure data storage, two-factor authentication, and strong access controls.

Digital data network connection

Depending on what your business provides and where it’s located, looking for a solution that complies with major regulations like HIPAA and GDPR may also be necessary.

Scalability

The objective of all small businesses is to grow, and your VoIP system needs to be able to keep up.

Look for scalable solutions that come with flexible pricing plans, modular upgrades, and easy user additions. Remember: you shouldn’t have to completely revamp your system just because you’ve hired five new team members.

Man working on his laptop

The perfect VoIP system awaits!

Picking the right VoIP system goes way beyond just making calls. It’s about meeting your business’s goals and giving your team the tools they need to achieve them.

Each feature we discussed, from call management tools and mobile apps to AI-driven capabilities and robust security, is crucial for keeping you connected and ahead of the competition.

We recommend testing different platforms and exploring their solutions by taking advantage of free trials, money-back guarantees, or booking free demos. Trial and error is the way to go to get the best end result.

Discussions

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