Why Your Communication System Deserves Better Than Cookie-Cutter Solutions

You didn't start your business to be just like everyone else in your industry. Instead, you started it because you saw a need that wasn't being met, or you wanted to provide an existing product or service but in a different, better way.

One of the best parts of being a small business owner is that you can create a workplace culture that feels right to you and your employees, and define a customer service model that leaves your customers thrilled every time they work with you.

However, if you have a generic communication system, you might be missing out on the benefits of being able to customize your service to match the rest of your company's culture.

Why a Cookie-Cutter Communication System Just Won't Work for You

Your company is inherently unique, which means a prepackaged telephone service probably won't fulfill all your needs. It won't include enough features for your business, or there might be too many aspects your company has no use for. At the same time, you don't want to purchase equipment that will be useless if your business grows or you change your direction tomorrow.

These days, business communication is much more than just a phone system for calls. It includes cloud-based communications, video conferencing, mobile apps, and virtual desktops. While your company may only need a few of these options today, you could decide next week that you need others. The best advantage a small business has is its ability to move quickly to adjust to changing circumstances.

Creating Custom Unified Communications that Work for You

One of the hardest parts of creating a custom solution is knowing all the options available, and even more importantly, how you can use these features to increase service, employee engagement, and productivity. With a unified communications platform, your employees can handle customer calls on whatever devices they choose, from any location, without revealing personal details. Your business maintains a professional identity at all times, and customers get the quick service they expect. In addition, you can take advantage of custom cloud integrations so your various business tools can "talk" to each other.

The following are some unified communications features to consider when making your wish list:

• Visual Voicemail: Let's be honest, it's a pain to listen to voicemails. And it's especially awkward when you're in a meeting or conference and are just standing there silently with your phone pressed to your ear. However, when you provide voicemail transcription to your employees, voicemails are transcribed into email so employees can read the text of the voice messages from wherever they are.
• Call Recording: There are many ways you can use this feature, from setting company-wide rules to randomly monitor customer calls to recording conference calls, training new employees, and allowing your team to record an important call on the spot even once the call has started.
• Video Conferencing: You may have employees who work at locations around the country or even just across town. But with video conferencing, you can have as close to in-person meetings as possible without the hassle — not to mention expense — of gathering in one location.

Your business isn't just like everyone else's, so don't think you need to use the same communication system as everyone else. Use one that fits your organization.

Contact a Vonage Business consultant to learn more about creating a customized communication system that meets your unique requirements.