Everybody makes mistakes. However, when it comes to business, some mistakes can be more harmful than others. For example, how do you come back from choosing the wrong IP phone service provider for your company, particularly if you’ve now alienated the company that may have been a better choice? We’re here to help. Imagine not making those fatal mistakes in the first place – prevent is better than a cure, after all.
1. Not recognising your business’s needs, or understanding how an IP phone service is going to work for you
It’s a fundamental mistake, but again, one we’re all capable of making. So, you know that an IP phone service could probably benefit your business, and you’ve heard some great things about a particular provider – what are you waiting for?
STOP! An IP phone service is as unique as businesses, and choosing software based upon another’s experiences is, I’m afraid, a fatal mistake. Firstly take stock of your business; what are your key aims, how do you achieve those, and what types of communication do you use? How must all of these be fulfilled? Now, cross-reference that list with one that details how an IP phone service must work for you. Then, and only then, are you ready to start your search.
2. Falling for spiel and ‘razzle dazzle’
We’ve all done it, especially when we’re already overwhelmed by the number of options that are open to us; fallen for the shiny adverts, salesperson’s patter, and allowed ourselves to be talked into signing a contract that we may otherwise have overlooked. Don’t feel bad. That is, unfortunately, the way a lot of companies garner their business. You aren’t the first, or last, to be swayed by advertising! The important thing to remember as you begin your search for an IP phone service provider is to fulfill your company’s needs at a price that suits you – and that’s it. If you’re looking for sparkle, try and create that in your business practice and customer service. The companies that are providing the best possible service will be sure to look out for what you need and how to fulfill those requirements. Providers that are simply out for your money, on the other hand, won’t have the time to really listen to you.
3. Failing to conduct proper research
In a similar vein to fatal mistake number two is not conducting your research properly. Rather than being dazzled, you simply fail to read any of the small print at all, or really grasp what you’re being sold. Let’s face it, we’ve all taken that approach when shopping – choosing the first item, sometimes without testing it or trying it on, simply so that we can leave the store a little quicker. Again, be firm with yourself – what is it that you’re looking for? Does the first company satisfy every wish on your list? If not, keep looking!
4. Listening to too many voices
Whether they’re the dulcet tones of vendors, the suggestions of your business partners, or the chatter of clients, listening to too many opinions is a fatal mistake when it comes to choosing a new phone service. After all, you wouldn’t create a national survey if you were choosing a home network – in much the same way, too many opinions can make an otherwise simple choice incredibly complicated. If you must listen to the business owners, or partners, as a matter of compliance, then do, but be sure to follow steps one to three in order to make your own decisions.
5. Not reading the fine print, or understanding what you’re getting for your money
It’s called small print for a reason, and many of us just won’t take the time to read it. After all, the vendors will surely tell you about anything important. Won’t they? Well, not always, I’m afraid, and it’s really important to make sure that you know what you’re buying before you sign on that dotted line. Read through all paperwork carefully, highlight anything you’d like to raise, or are unsure of, and always, always, compare what’s being offered with what you need. If the contract is attempting to offer you things you don’t need for additional costs, or failing to provide a basic service, speak up.
So, there you have it – Hopefully, these 5 tips will help you when searching for the right IP phone service provider. We’re always on hand to answer your questions, and don’t forget you can always take Voxcloud hosted phone system for a spin before committing!
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