Phone Services
DO YOU HAVE A LANDLINE?
Are you utilizing it to the fullest?
Is there a better system out there?
There are multiple options which basically boil down to using old fashioned landlines or a VoIP system. While traditional phone services are looked upon as more reliable, unfortunately they do fail as well. “Voice over IP” (VoIP), which uses the Internet as opposed to phone wires to make calls, offers more options but many see it as less reliable.
Avenue M Computers has two phone systems one is a completely VoIP system while the other is Optimum. Optimum, which is a division of CableVision is considered by many to be a competition to Verizon. However, Optimum does act in many ways like a VoIP system as well.
Read below to see some of the options which are offered by the different phone carries.
1. Forwarding a call
Regardless if you are using a landline, VoIP or cell phone, you are able to forward calls to another phone.
How do you do it?
LANDLINE: Dial *72 and then the phone number which you would like to transfer the calls to. Answer the phone on the number which you are forwarding the calls to.
CELL PHONE: Dial the *72 + phone number and then press SEND. Then answer the phone on the number which you are forwarding the calls to.
OPTIMUM USER and VoIP PHONES: Log into your system and set the number which you would like to forward the calls to.
2. Retrieving voice mails
While many phone providers have a built in answering service, many now have the option to email the voice mails to your email account. I find this feature very helpful since I no longer need to dial into a number or listen to my voice mails exclusively at home any more!
3. Ring in multiple locations
With the advent of cell phones and more recently the pushing of unlimited air time minutes, why not use a carrier which provides a “find me” option. Depending on the carrier and plan, you can have multiple phones ring simultaneously or sequentially when the main home (or office) number is dialed. For example, if someone dials your business number, it can also ring on your cell phone.
4. Click to call
Want to call people without giving out your cell phone number?
Use your carrier’s “click to call,” and once configured properly, you will be able to call using your cell phone (or any other phone), yet the caller ID will display your home (or office) number.
5. VIP ringing
Is there someone who you would like to know is calling, even before you reach for the phone and see the caller ID?
Why not try VIP ringing.
VIP ringing allows several numbers (currently 32 with Optimum) to ring with a different ring tone, to alert you that the “VIP” is calling.
6. Online security and backup
Verizon offers free or monthly options to protect your computer (with an anti-virus program) and backup your data in the cloud, free or monthly plans.
7. Auto-Receptionist
Does your business have multiple departments? Is your secretary fielding “what’s your address” all day?
If yes, you may want to get an an auto-receptionist.
An auto-receptionist is an automated system which answers your calls and directs your customers and vendors to the proper people (as well as providing messages for hours and location.)
In conclusion, there are different options, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. For assistance in choosing and implementing the correct system, please call 718-676-6910 to schedule your free consultation today!
PLEASE NOTE: All features may not be available with all VoIP service providers.
