Phone Help

[ryanb4614]

Hello I have recently been checking up on some of my competitions websites etc. One thing that I have been wondering about is getting a phone number for my online business. I currently have no number listed. I have been calling my competitors phone number to see what they are offering and the layout is as follows
Thank you for calling store name
press 1 for credit
press 2 for order information
etc. Any option you pick goes like this
Thank you for contacting the "Credit Department" if you have question regaurding a charge on your credit card please state your issue and leave your email address so we can get back to you.

So every option is a recording with some information that may help the customer and if they still have questions it ask to leave your question and email address, they will respond to your inquiry through email. So bascially there is no customer service, this is something I would be interested in doing, I do not have time to stay by a phone and take phone calls as this is only a part time job i do with my website. What are some services you offer like this, what are some companies you use? Is this a good idea even if i wont be there to answer the phones?

I was told once by a business owner the reason people order online is becuase they dont want to deal with the people to people interaction. so phone number is useless?

[Microdocman]

Hi Ryan,

Communication is a tough question. There isn't a simple answer, depends on what your business is, and how much communication is useful. For example, the service industry would use more communication than a retail or manufacturing industry, due to the nature of the business. If you can't resource a phone system, make sure you have tip top communication in other areas, FAQ's, email, forums etc.

The size and structure of the business is paramont to the type of communication. Also, client expectations are important to consider. I think if you make clear your level of support on your website, including type and level of customer service, then you meet customer expectations.

I'd avoid allowing customers to find out for themselves, as this leads to lost business new or returning. It's a fine balance to be accessible all the time. I'd map out the important concerns of your client and try to address them.

good luck

[ryanb4614]

Would you trust hiring someone from a website like odesk.com to take order or for customer service?

[JPnyc]

I would tend to think you'd be better with a prefabricated solution, as opposed to hiring a developer to do one for you. Why reinvent the wheel when there's one already out there...

[ryanb4614]

can you give me some websites to take a look if you know of any.

[relentless]

I was told once by a business owner the reason people order online is becuase they dont want to deal with the people to people interaction. so phone number is useless?

A phone number gives a shopper a sense of comfort. It's almost always a good idea to have a phone number. Most of the pre-bundled solutions would work GREAT for you! Check out this website regarding VOIP, and voicemail systems
. It's a great place to begin your search.

[jossecarr]

That's part of the customer service system of a business that would create higher response the calling party. It is mostly included when you buy a phone system. Companies like Kall8, freedom voice, ringcentral and phone people are among who offered this service.

[Zita]

Currently lots of PBX for small business, you can sort some using google.Such as skype PBX,SIP etc.

[jossecarr]

Reading reviews about the different providers will give you edge towards finding the right one.From here you can compare the features and terms offered by the phone companies. You can use the resources available in the internet.