Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hey there,

We are an e-business without a receptionist, and I think it`s time we hire an answering service (not voice mail). I was wondering if any one out there has a recommendation for a service they`ve had an ongoing good experience with? Prefer a company that can deliver messages via email. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

Best regards,

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Rene Agredano
MarcomAndPOP.com by
  Agreda Communications

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Rene,

Are your customers (callers) local?

My experience is that you will find the best service and features using a anwering service provider in your area.  They are often easier to communicate with, and more flexible.  Although take care to conisder other factors; How big will you gorw?  Can they grow with you?  How invloved would it be to move to another provider if I outgrow this one?  What features that I am not using now, will I need in the future?

Plus, using a local provider you can actually visit the call centre.  That can really help in fostering the relationship.  They are the first people your customers will hear when they call your company.

Some things to consider!

Hi Brian,
Thanks so much for replying. I think it was your previous post on a similar question about voice mail that got me to post mine here.

Our clients are nationwide, and we`re missing a lot of East Coasters in the morning (we`re in CA). I have considered using a local service, but the thing is, I`m not sure the one that`s available in our very small town is professional enough. I`ve had experiences when calling my doctor, and they`re OK for a physician (I think that docs are the majority of their clients) but I`m not sure they`re professional enough for our needs.

I have a friend who sings the praises of 24-7 In Touch.  I believe that they are in Ontario somewhere, but it shouldn`t make difference.  Unfortunately I am not too familiar with the call centres in the US.

24-7 will also do live chat, so customers can contact your company instantly via the web.

Sorrry I couldn`t be of more help

I looked at 24-7 and I thought it would be good idea, but how costly it would get to tailor it to your business. I think we will do some research on what will work the best for us.  

Rene, I hope you find what you are looking for.

Thanks, I`ll look into it. Interesting to have chat as an option. Thanks a bunch.

Rene,

I`m not sure if it will help, but here is a link to a call centre directory:

http://www.callcenterdirectory.net/

Raisecapital02,

What is meant by your statement that you "...will do some research on what will work best for us."

Are you currently looking for an answering service as well? Or?

bthomd, thanks for that link. i am in the market for a call center and they have lots to compare!

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I recommend www.CallRuby.com to my clients when they are in the need of a call answering service.  They`re prompt, professional and relatively in expensive as well.  They cover the hours of 7am to 5pm PST time, they are based in Oregon.  They are very adaptable in their service and will adjust their call answering to accomodate you.

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Renee Shupe, Administrative Solutions Provider to Consultants, Entreprenuers & Business Professionals.   |    Managing the details so you don’t have to… www.ReneeShupe.ca | Virtual Assistance, have you got yours?

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