3. Do you need other communications channels, too?
Phone calls are great, but what if you need instant messaging, SMS/MMS, and video conferencing? If you think you’ll need those communication options soon, then you should look at business phone services that also come with those channels—which are usually referred to as unified communications platforms.
Instead of having five or six different add-on apps for things like messaging and video conferences, why not choose a phone service that comes with everything in one handy app?
For example, Dialpad technically gives you a small business phone service, but it’s really a unified communications platform. With what's essentially a small business phone plan from Dialpad, you get not only unlimited calls, but also built-in messaging, free video conferencing, SMS/MMS, call waiting, screen sharing, and a ton of additional features. (Did we mention you can flip your calls seamlessly between your phone and computer without dropping the call?)
4. Do you need to uplevel your customer support and service?
A small business phone service can set you up with everything you need to create a small business call center or contact center. (In fact, Dialpad also has a fully integrated contact center platform if you need it.)
If you’re getting enough enquiries from customers that you need things like call logs, a virtual receptionist, hold music, or call routing, you may want to look into a small business phone service that has these contact center features.
5. Do you have a (small) budget?
Let’s face it. There are definitely “free” small business phone services out there, but often, they’ll sell nickel-and-dime you on really basic features (or charge you by the minute for outgoing business calls). It’s generally better if you have a budget to work with—even if it’s a modest one.
Dialpad’s least expensive plan, as a comparison, costs $15 per user per month, but comes with unlimited calling (in your home country, the US, and Canada) and unlimited texting among a host of other cool functionality.
The best small business phone service
When your communication needs stretch to much more than an average phone call, Dialpad's innovative solution may be the best small business phone service for you. Offering everything from video conferencing and instant SMS and MMS messaging to a fully integrated contact center platform, you’ll be streamlining your business’ communications in no time.
Leave your PBX phone systems in the past and overhaul your small business’ communication with a VoIP phone system designed for maximum efficiency and optimal output. Boasting easy setup, real-time transcription, and various call routing, forwarding, and transfer options—this affordable virtual phone system starts at £12 a month per user.