Answering the Call After Hours: How an After Hours Answering Service Can Boost Your Business Efficiency
The Benefits of an After Hours Answering Service
You just locked up the office for the night. As you walk to your car you think about the big presentation tomorrow and hope no urgent issues come up to derail your prep time. But what if a client calls with an emergency that requires a response? You want to be there for them, but you also need rest to bring your A-game. What if you could ensure clients’ after-hours needs are met without compromising your off-time and productivity? With a professional answering service on call, you can. Keep reading to learn how an after-hours answering service takes your business efficiency to the next level.
Key Features to Look for in an After Hours Answering Service
Improved Customer Experience
Nothing frustrates customers more than calling after hours and getting an automated message or voicemail. An after hours answering service ensures your calls are answered by a live person 24/7. Your customers will appreciate speaking with a real human who can address their needs promptly.
Higher Sales and Revenue
With calls being answered after hours, you have more opportunities to generate sales and revenue. Customers calling after hours likely have an urgent need and by having their calls answered, you gain the chance to provide them with immediate solutions or recommendations. You’ll boost customer satisfaction by being available when they need you most.
Increased Operational Efficiency
An after hours answering service reduces the burden on your staff during business hours. Your team can focus on their primary day-to-day responsibilities without worrying about manning the phones after hours or on weekends. The service also provides call data and messaging so you start each day knowing exactly what transpired and how to best address any outstanding customer needs.
By offering exceptional support and service after hours with the help of an answering service, you’ll build loyalty, earn repeat customers, and gain a competitive advantage. The benefits to your bottom line and business efficiency make after hours support a worthwhile investment.
How to Choose the Right After Hours Answering Service for Your Business
A good after hours answering service should have certain key features to effectively manage your calls. Look for a service that offers call routing. This allows them to direct calls to the appropriate department or staff member during business hours and to an agent after hours. Call routing ensures important calls are handled properly 24/7.
You’ll also want a service with call recording and monitoring. This allows you to review how agents handle calls and ensure high quality service. Some services offer real-time call monitoring so you can listen live and evaluate agent performance.
A wide range of call handling services is ideal. This includes options like call forwarding, voicemail, and emergency call handling. You’ll want agents that can handle a variety of call types, from basic questions to urgent matters. The more comprehensive the call services offered, the more versatile and useful the answering service will be.
Call volume capacity and scalability are also important. Make sure the service can handle your current call volume and can scale up as your business grows. The last thing you want is an overloaded answering service that can’t keep up with demand.
Look for a service with highly-trained agents as well. Agents should be courteous, knowledgeable, and able to represent your business professionally. They should have experience handling the types of calls your after hours answering service will receive.
With the right features and qualified agents, an after hours answering service can become an invaluable extension of your business. Calls are answered professionally 24/7, leaving you free to focus on growth and success.
