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10 Things VoIP Can Do For You!

10 Things VoIP Can Do For You

One touch Call Divert
This is a great feature for those who find themselves leaving the office in a rush with no time to call their provider to get their calls diverted. Many VoIP phones around will allow you to pre-programme your phone with a desired forward number, enabling you to simply hit the “Call Forward” button as you leave and have your calls diverted instantly!

Professional IVRs as standard
VoIP technology allows you to have an enterprise level IVR menu as standard. You might be accustomed to having to pay your supplier for features such as these but almost all VoIP providers offer it as a free service. As explained further below in more detail, you can also record your own IVR sound files through your handset, allowing the whole process to be completed in under an hour.

Time based call routing
Another VoIP feature is the ability to set your call routing around your working hours. Many businesses use this to have a work hours dial plan calling their extensions, and then an out of office hours dial plan which would, for example, divert straight to voicemail thus allowing your clients to know you’re not open.

Simple call barring
Many VoIP providers offer a managed portal where you can configure your account settings. Platforms such as these often offer a smart call barring feature where you can simply type in the number you wish to block and hit submit. This way you can keep track of what numbers you have blocked and add any more as you see fit.

Call recording storage and download
If your chosen VoIP provider also has a managed portal where you can view your account then it’s likely they have a Call Recording suite as well. This feature enables users to search their call recordings based on number, date, time and what extension answered / made the call. From here you should be able to download or stream your call recordings straight from the portal and onto your computer so you can listen to them yourself.

Record your own messages
Many VoIP systems offer you the ability to record your own messages and greetings straight from your VoIP phone. This feature is great if you don’t want to pay to get your messages professionally recorded or if you need to upload a message to your phone system in a hurry. Simply lift your receiver and dial in a pre-configured code, you can then dictate your message and have it applied to your system in an instant.

Numbers from any area code
If you are using old analogue style telephony you are limited to what CLI you are given by your geographical location. Because VoIP isn’t geographically dependent, you can pick and choose your numbers. Whether that be an 0203 London CLI or a +1 USA CLI, you can realistically display any number when calling out.

Take your phone with you
VoIP only requires an internet connection to function which means that you can practically take your phone anywhere. This could be handy for office workers who need to work from home for a few days and don’t want their calls being diverted to their mobile phones. Simply plug it into your router and home and you’re good to go!

Voicemails sent to your email address
Not being able to check your voicemails unless you’re at the office can be very frustrating. That’s why many VoIP Systems offer you the ability to have any voicemail left on your extension to be copied into handy email format with your voicemail attached! This way you can open your voicemails on your mobile if you’re out and about or on your home computer.

Faxes sent to your email address
This is a feature similar to Voicemail 2 Email. VoIP technology allows you to receive incoming faxes via your VoIP number which then get copied into an email sent to the email address of your choice. A really fantastic feature for those who need the ability to receive faxes but don’t want the hassle of having a clunky fax machine sat around their office.

By Ethan Theo

Abe WalkingBear Sanchez is an International Speaker / Trainer / Consultant on the subject of cash flow / sales enhancement and business knowledge organization and use. Founder and President of www.armg-usa.com, WalkingBear has authored hundreds of business articles, has worked with numerous companies in a wide range of industries since 1982 and has spoken at many venues including the Shakespeare Globe Theater in London.