The growing number of VoIP business phone systems comes from advancements in technology and the Internet. Companies across the globe should be thankful for it too.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) grants employees and customers the ability to connect more.
In recent years, the traditional telephone network has become ineffective. Today, shoppers expect much more from businesses, including better ways to communicate.
VoIP phone services will help deliver unified communications systems across the company. It will assist you in running a highly successful business.
VoIP business phone systems can support employees with long-term conversations. VoIP solutions also create a better work environment for co-workers.
For instance, new or small businesses may not have the budget to pay for several platforms. It ends up making them choose between vital solutions. i.e., a phone system, mobile app, or videoconferencing.
If your business wants to stop using many apps or having to choose between platforms, you need a VoIP system. It takes all the separate components you use and puts them into one platform.
Why not have a phone system that includes additional features with VoIP:
- Audio conferencing
- Voice mail
- Video conferencing
- Instant messaging
- Online faxing
- Call recording
- Text messaging
- Custom greetings
- Virtual business number
- International calls
- Call routing
- Automated attendant
- Toll-free numbers
- Caller ID
- Plus, additional benefits
Go beyond only using traditional phone lines and cell phones.
Top VoIP Business Phone Providers
Before deciding which VoIP solution is your top pick, learn the standard features. Discover what, at the very least, the best business VoIP services should offer.
Main Components of a Unified Business Phone System
It may seem overwhelming at first, but as a business owner, you want a lot of options. But if you want to start with the basics, below are the essentials for a unified business phone system.
1. VoIP Phone Calls
Although most are familiar with the workings of a traditional phone, it does not mean it is the best method. With VoIP, employees can make and receive calls, plus much more.
Even while receiving more from VoIP than from a landline service, it is often more affordable. Some VoIP providers also offer free phone calls.
The equipment you need to make VoIP calls are items you already own. For a VoIP system to work, it needs a computer, mobile device, microphone, speakers, and the Internet.
Making calls using VoIP services is simple. Many providers even offer local and toll-free phone numbers.
2. Voice Conference Calls
VoIP communication systems include a conference bridge allowing users to host conference calls.
The number of people on the call also depends on your VoIP provider and the features it offers. i.e., Google Voice.
3. Video Conference Calls and Call Recording
Business managers can have virtual meetings with employees and co-workers through video calling. To access this feature, choose a VoIP provider that includes video conferencing software.
Most VoIP services allow screen sharing, letting everyone view presentations in the meeting.
The number of video conference participants varies by provider. Select the one that best suits your business needs.
Many VoIP services also include a video recording feature that allows the system to record video calls. A feature perfect for employee training and recalling video meeting conversations.
4. Instant Messages and Chat Logs
Many VoIP systems provide employees with the feature of instant messaging. They can connect with other team members and managers quicker than an email or phone call.
Its ease of use makes the VoIP business service of instant messaging a popular tool. By logging into the system, users can send messages, ask questions, and collaborate.
VoIP also offers businesses the option of a chat log, which is an archive of conversations from online chats and instant messaging. This service records word communications.
It works well in times when chats need reviewing. The recorded interactions can be used for training purposes and to keep employees up-to-date about customer data.
5. Text Messages
Almost everyone uses text messages to communicate today. When your business uses VoIP solutions, text messaging is often a standard feature.
Workers can send text messages to customers who opt-in without displaying private numbers. Your employees can send and receive text messages from your business line instead.
Text messaging is also a fast way to converse with customers and co-workers. It allows you to respond much quicker to your buyer’s needs.
Best Picks for VoIP Business Phone Services
Your business will benefit from cutting down on the number of apps it uses and the costs associated with them.
By scaling back on redundant systems, you will see how VoIP is a real asset you will never want to go without again.
Top 5 VoIP Phone Services for Businesses
Here are the best VoIP phone service providers for your small business.
Best Overall VoIP System:
Jive
When you replace your traditional phone lines with Jive, your customers will appreciate the difference.
Visit Jive VoiceBest Overall VoIP System: Jive
Best VoIP Phone System for Very Small Businesses: Ooma
Best VoIP Phone System for Small Businesses: 8×8
Best VoIP On-The-Go Phone System: Grasshopper
Best Cloud-Hosted VoIP Phone System: Dialpad
Best Overall VoIP System:
Jive
- Starting Price: $19.95/month
- Contract: None
- Free Trial: Yes
- Offers: Cancel anytime. The first month is free.
Jive Voice Phone Service:
Jive Voice is a user-friendly cloud-based VoIP phone system. Jive offers business users many ways to communicate with customers and co-workers. Each feature will give your small business better call quality and experience.
Best VoIP Phone System for Very Small Businesses:
Ooma
- Starting Price: $18/month
- Contract: None
- Free Trial: 30-day free trial
- Offers: Demo
Ooma Business Phone Service:
Ooma is the perfect VoIP solution for very small businesses. Ooma offers very small businesses with basic features. Although it is not a VoIP provider with a vast array of services, it does include those that micro-businesses will find most valuable.
Among them are voicemail, call transfer, call log, call park, extension-to-extension calling, and dial-by-name calling.
This virtual phone system includes a virtual receptionist who answers all incoming calls. The receptionist also directs callers to the right person or department. Ooma’s virtual extensions are perfect for remote workers, conference calling and small groups.
8×8 Business Phone Service:
8×8 is a tiered business VoIP solution best for small businesses. It has a vast array of calling, collaboration, and mobile features that works well with small businesses that are looking for a unified communications solution.
These features include three-way calling, call forwarding, call waiting, and call transfers. Small business owners will also appreciate having the valuable tools of online voicemail, automated attendants, ring groups and caller ID.
Small businesses that choose an 8×8 premium plan on collaboration, Businesses gain the use of a conference calling bridge that allows employees to host conference calls with up to 50 participants at a time. Video conferencing services also include features that provide each user with the ability to host video meetings with up to 100 participants at a time.
Best VoIP On-The-Go Phone System:
Grasshopper
- Starting Price: $26/month
- Contract: No
- Free Trial: 7-day free trial
- Offers: $50 off the annual plan.
Grasshopper Business Phone Service:
Grasshopper makes switching from your traditional phone system to a VoIP business service easy to do.
Directing callers, choosing numbers, and call forwarding are essential features employees have full control over. From the caller’s perspective, the experience is exactly the same as calling a traditional phone system. This includes when employees are away from their desk-phone and on-the-go.
Grasshopper VoIP services provide workers with the flexibility and mobility they need without losing potential prospects.
Best Cloud-Hosted VoIP Phone System:
Dialpad
- Starting Price: $25/month
- Contract: Yes
- Free Trial: 14-day free trial
- Offers: 30-day money-back guarantee
Dialpad Business Phone Service:
Dialpad is a cloud-based communications platform that provides various size businesses with access to voice, messaging, and meetings with VoIP
Improve the quality of your company’s communication with managers, workers, and customers. Your business can have a unified and streamlined VoIP platform where conversations come first.
Conclusion
No matter the budget of your new or small business, there is a VoIP phone system for you. To find the best solution depends on the current state of your company’s communications.
If employees experience restrictions from traditional phones, then it is time to switch. VoIP gives workers more opportunities to connect with leads and to convert them.
Save money by putting all your applications into one communication platform. You can also integrate the ones you currently use.
Owners no longer have to pay for the separate costs of business phone plans, apps, and mobile phones packages. With VoIP, you can make one straightforward payment to your chosen provider.
Business owners can ensure communication flows and can catch it before it stops. Employees can share the same data for each customer, improving the customer experience.
With a good Internet connection and software, you can communicate via VoIP. Converse with customers on both your mobile devices and computers.
Whether you are an employee in the office or a remote worker, your customers go where you go.
Now, you need to determine which VoIP provider is the best business phone system for you. Start by reviewing the list of features for every solution and see if it will upgrade your phone system.
Find an easy-to-use VoIP phone system that is reliable and fast to set up. Do not settle for only a “good” VoIP service for small businesses. Always go for the best that meets your specific needs.
Prioritize features from “must-haves” to “optional” for your business phone system. This process helps ensure you cover your basic needs first. From there, you can move on to see how extra features can improve your communication system even more.
Using VoIP over traditional landlines gives your small business many advantages, including:
Lower costs — as inexpensive as $10 to $25 a month.
Platforms, features, and services are easier to use.
VoIP services come with advanced features and a unifying platform, including videoconferencing and call logs.
A unified system lets employees focus more on the quality of their work and customer service.
Managers also have an easier time tracking, analyzing, and reviewing employees’ performance. With access to collaborative tools, you can work on projects as a team.
Basic phone systems do not give customers the genuine connections they want. You need a VoIP system where customers can form business relationships when they buy.
If your customer calls drop or your system routes them to the wrong department, eventually the calls will stop. Instead, stand out with a VoIP phone system that makes communicating a non-issue.
Make it easy for customers to build trust and loyalty with your business. Give them a reliable communication system they can count on. Ensure your small business phone service connects calls, responds, and provides follow-ups.
When shoppers can connect with employees in various ways, they feel like they matter. When you use a virtual phone system at your business, customers will know of their importance.
Buyers will never need to second guess it either. They will encounter it with every conversation, interaction, and call they make to you.
