A product demo goes a long way when trying to sell your business’ product or services. For some businesses, it can make or break the sale. And so, as a salesperson, you must do everything you can to make your product relevant to your prospect.
How to Do a Product Demo Successfully
A successful product demonstration includes describing the product well but also making it relevant and useful to the prospect. So, what do you need to keep in mind while preparing for a product demo? Here are some ways you can create a solid demo.
1. Study the Product Well
Nothing puts prospects off more than a salesperson who doesn’t know the product they are selling. To be able to sell during the product demo, you first need to know what the product is and how it can benefit your audience.
For instance, if you are selling a new version of a product or service, make sure you understand what comes with the new version before the demo. Pay attention to new features, technical details, and more. Essentially, be prepared for questions about the product or related processes.
2. Research Your Client
Every prospect is unique and has specific circumstances under which they are considering your product. Therefore, it is important that you are able to present your product or service as the ideal solution. To do that, you first need to know relevant information about your prospect. Do your research and study your client before the product demo.
Don’t just Google their name and skim their website. Understand their service, number of employees, size of the company, essential needs, and so on. Look through their LinkedIn page and social media accounts. Read their press releases, articles, interviews, and industry reports. You may even choose to see what their competitors are doing to see if you can help them achieve it.
There are plenty of helpful tools for salespeople to research potential customers.
3. Craft Your Offer, Rehearse, and Personalize
Once you have the right knowledge about the prospect, you can craft a personalized offer that is relevant to them. A successful sales demo not only demonstrates the product but highlights and identifies it as a solution to an existing problem. When creating your offer and product demo, consider these questions:
What are the prospect’s common challenges?
What are the main areas of concern in their industry?
Which features or sub-features of your product/service can solve their problem?
Are all features applicable and relevant? Which features should I pay more attention to?
What is the best way to describe the features? Can I use examples that are similar to the prospect’s situation?
4. Have a Plan (and a Plan B)
Plan out exactly how you want this product demonstration to go. Write down each point to cover. Map out the sequence of topics you want to bring up. Highlight portions you want to repeat or reinforce. Revisit and rehearse the plan a few times until you feel comfortable.
Create a plan B in case things don’t pan out the way you want them to. For instance, your internet or phone connection may not be good or your prospect may have to cancel. What can you do to continue this conversation? Have backup software or communication tools ready to go. In case the product demo gets rescheduled, have other activities that you can pour your energy into.
5. Make the Call Confidently
Finally, once you are ready to make your call, make sure that:
Your internet and VoIP phone service are strong.
Make sure your communication tool is working well.
Your microphone (and camera, if applicable) is on and works.
The software for the product demo is ready.
Your plan A and B are both readily available.
Keep relevant websites and tabs open.
Keep your CRM or notebook ready to take notes.
All Set to Create the Ultimate Demo
As a successful salesperson, it is your job to do the extra work that will give you better chances of making a sale. With all of this in place, you can confidently make the call and focus on giving an excellent product demo!
Customer support is essential for almost every business. This is because how you treat and serve your customers directly impacts customer satisfaction. And quality support helps you retain more valuable customers.
How to Offer the Best Customer Support
So, what are some ways your business can offer useful and relevant customer support?
Hire the right people and train them well
Focus on improving caller experience by understanding your target audience better
Pay attention to the customer and adopt active listening
Personalize and customize the customer experience
Make yourself accessible by offering multi-channel communication (live chat, SMS, email, phone, etc.)
Industries which Provide Excellent Customer Support
The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ASCI) ranks businesses within their industry based on customer satisfaction and evaluation of goods and services. According to the ASCI, these are the industries which have been offering great customer support so far in 2026:
1. Cellular Telephones
2. Consumer shipping
3. Video streaming
4. Wireless telephones
5. US postal service
In 2019, the figures were different, with the following industries topping the list of excellent customer support. Companies in these industries must, therefore, continue focusing on strategies and methods that improve customer experience and increase customer satisfaction rates:
6. Breweries
7. Personal care and cleaning products
8. Food manufacturing
9. Television and video players
10. Soft drinks
11. Full-service restaurants
12. Internet investment
13. Internet retail
14. Household appliances
15. Life insurance
16. Banks
17. Cellular telephones
18. Financial advisors
19. Internet travel services
Industries that Need to Offer Better Customer Support
However, the following industries received low scores regarding customer satisfaction in 2019. Hence, companies in these industries must up their game and provide useful and resourceful customer service in 2020:
20. Internet search engines and information
21. Apparel
22. Internet news and opinion
23. Ambulatory care
24. Department and discount stores
25. Health and personal care stores
26. Cooperative energy utilities
27. Hotels
28. Wireless telephone service
29. Health insurance
30. Airlines
31. Gasoline stations
32. Municipal energy utilities
33. Investor-owned energy utilities
34. Hospitals
35. Internet social media
36. Fixed-Line telephone service
37. Video-on-demand service
38. Internet service providers
39. Subscription television services
40. Network/Cable TV news
41. Cigarettes
42. Newspapers
43. Pet food
44. Motion pictures
Companies Ranked for the Best Customer Service
Here is a list of companies with their industries that provided the best customer service in 2019, as compiled by ASCI:
Airlines:
Southwest
JetBlue
Automobiles:
Lexus
Daimler – Mercedes Benz
Toyota
Subaru
Cellular phones/Computers:
Apple
Consumer Shipping:
FedEx
Department & Discount Stores:
Costco
Digital Services (content & social media):
HubSpot
MailChimp
Buffer
Pollfish
Full-Service Restaurants:
Texas Roadhouse
Cracker Barrel
Furniture Stores:
IKEA
Household Appliances:
LG
Internet Retail:
Amazon
Shopify
Internet Search Engines:
Google
Life Insurance:
Thrivent Financial
Limited-Service Restaurant:
Chick-Fil-A
Specialty Retail:
L Brands
Supermarkets:
Trader Joe’s
Aldi
HEB Grocery
Publix
Wegmans Food Markets
Newsweek, with Statista Inc., has a different list of America’s Top 10 Best Customer Service 2020. This list was put together based on a few factors such as quality of communication, professional competence, range of services, customer focus, and accessibility:
Disney Cruise Line
Neiman Marcus
The Ritz-Carlton
Edward Jones
Chick-fil-A
L.L.Bean
National Storage Affiliates
Embassy Suites
Publix
Beau Coup
Start Showing Customers Your Care Today!
Customers need to know that they are being valued and they can count on your team if any problem arises. You must make it easy for them to connect with you and resolve their concerns quickly. As you improve your customer service and experience, you will notice a rise in customer satisfaction. After all, happy customers equal happy businesses!
Customer care and support are essential as they can determine how well a company performs. If you are looking to upgrade your service, check these best customer service examples and give them a try!
Best Customer Service Companies for 2026
From small gestures to quick responses to individual care, customer support can go a long way in securing valued customers and clients. Here we list 11 best customer service examples of companies that try hard to offer quality customer care and please their valued customers.
1. Amazon.com
Amazon has risen tremendously in the past decade. Almost every individual uses Amazon to purchase gifts, household equipment, clothing, books, and more. In fact, users tend to look at Amazon first to get products that may not be available in any other physical or online retail store. Plus, the e-commerce giant is quick to offer refunds and even makes the return process easy with multiple drop-off locations. This makes Amazon one of the top customer service examples to model your support team after.
2. Google
Google, like Amazon, has grown into a service most people use on a daily basis. From its search engine to Google phones, Chromebooks, and apps, to marketing and advertising, Google is embedded in almost everything we do. It is, therefore, necessary that they pay attention to how we use the service. The company is extremely accessible via live chat, email, and phone. They even have an extensive forum for common issues and frequently asked questions. This helps users get quick answers to their concerns and resolve them successfully. They also offer deals and discounts (and at times, even gift products for free) to valued and loyal customers.
3. Chewy.com
Chewy has been steadily growing and earning its place in customers’ hearts. The key is to genuinely care about the pets and animals they are providing resources for. If a customer is unsatisfied with a product, they are quick to respond with a refund and possible solutions or alternatives. All the while keeping the interaction friendly and empathetic. With pets, it is often possible that you purchase a product that might not work out. Having a customer support team to right that wrong in the easiest way possible can be a huge load off your shoulders.
4. Publix
Publix is another top pick from great customer service examples because they’ve been voted the “South’s Best Grocery Store” and selected as one of “America’s Best Supermarkets,” both in 2019. In 2020 and 2021, Publix has continued to care for customers as well as their own employees. Employee satisfaction is an essential key to good customer service. If your employees are unhappy, how do you expect them to translate happiness to customers? Publix has this nailed down!
5. Starbucks
Starbucks pays great attention to details and uses that to meet exceptional customer service standards all over the world. Each type of drink is uniquely made with a precise pattern and ingredients that are easy to imitate elsewhere. From specialty drinks to cozy store designs to even their own music profile on Spotify for customers who care about music, Starbucks has been innovating in regards to customer care for years and continues to do so.
6. Chick-Fil-A
The customer service team at Chick-Fil-A is known for being professional and courteous. In fact, in 2016, they were rated the most polite employees for always including the magic words “please” and “thank you” in their interactions.
7. Aldi
Aldi has won many customers’ and shoppers’ hearts over the years with their low cost, high-quality items, and selection of produce. Even though the store is a supermarket, it creates a personal feel that appeals to customers of different sectors.
8. Costco Wholesale
Costco is a favorite all over the United States. Their low prices, top quality, bulk purchasing, easy policy, and free samples make them one of the best customer service examples, easily. And these factors are the reason why they receive loads of new members every year while retaining the ones they already have.
9. JetBlue
JetBlue is considered one of the top best customer service examples because they use small gestures to make their customers feel valued and cared for. In fact, in the 2019 North America Airline Satisfaction Study, this company was awarded the Top Customer Satisfaction Honor Among Low-Cost Carriers. From cheap cancellation fees to complimentary snacks, JetBlue makes an effort to take care of its customers and offer a worry-free service.
Why are These Customer Service Teams Successful?
The reason why these companies and businesses are mentioned in lists of top customer service examples is because they are doing something right. So, what are they doing well? These companies:
Are accessible through different channels.
Customize and personalize wherever applicable to make users feel special and involved.
Practice active listening and quick responses.
Study customer behavior and preferences in an attempt to serve better.
Provide self-service content and FAQs.
And are highly motivated to serve well.
Let us leave you with these questions to consider: Is your business trying to achieve these goals? Where do you see room for improvement? How can you enhance customer experience and service? What is the next step?
Most sales reps constantly contemplate: how can you get people to buy your product? What can you do to quickly close a deal that you have been working on for weeks? How do you convince prospects who are on the fence to make a purchase? What efforts can you make to ensure sales go smoothly?
How to Get People to Buy Your Product
Even though it’s hard to close certain deals, part of being a successful sales rep means not giving up. So, what can you do to get people to buy your product? Here is a look at the most common hurdles to closing sales and how you can communicate clearly to ensure your products get noticed and ultimately, purchased.
1. Avoid Using Heavy Jargon
Overly technical language can easily put a customer off. Instead of using jargon or commonly used industry cliches, make it easy for your clients to understand what your product consists of, what the benefits are, and how they can apply it to their needs.
2. Focus on the Benefits of Your Product or Service
Most agents or reps tend to list down all the features that come along with a product or service. However, while clients are interested in what a product does, they also want to know what it means for them specifically. Understand their needs and business so you can demo your product as a solution that helps them.
3. Keep Them Engaged with Email Marketing
Use email marketing to educate and inform customers, not just to remind them of your business. Why are prospects hesitating from making purchases? Can you offer more information about the product or service your company provides? Use email to continue the conversation in a productive, informative way.
4. Emphasize How Your Brand is Unique and Different
Get a prospect to pay attention to your specific product and brand by demonstrating how it is unique and different from others offering similar or the same product. Generic benefits and features may convince a client to purchase, but it does not guarantee that they will buy it from you. So show them how your brand is separate from the others, offers better features or functions, and why it’s important in the industry.
For example, our sales reps spend a majority of their time explaining how our international toll-free numbers are quite different from services offered by other providers. A focus on differentiation will surely help convince more people to buy your products.
5. Use Testimonials and Case Studies to Demonstrate Success
Include reviews, testimonials, and case studies on your website and social media platforms. You should constantly be asking your best customers for testimonials. Highlight how customers have already used the product so new customers can visualize it and see how it works in action. Include statistics and hard data to support your claims.
6. Create a Sense of Urgency for Difficult Customers
Sales reps have to deal with customers who do not get off the fence. Even though they are solid and promising leads, they need ongoing convincing. So how can you increase the urgency without using high-pressure tactics? Short-term offers or deals with an expiration date can help close these deals while triggering them with immediacy.
Close the Deal!
Now that you know a variety of inside sales tactics to get people to buy your product, start implementing these methods into your strategy to improve your sales record. Be patient and find maneuvers that will help you enhance your efforts; using the right tools and strategy, you will be converting sales successfully.
What does it take to be the best sales rep out there? Here are 11 top qualities every salesperson who wants to be successful should have. A critical eye and hard work will help you achieve your goals better and perform your job effectively.
How to Become a Successful Sales Rep?
As a salesperson, you need to prepare yourself through education, networking, and more to handle calls and clients in the best way possible. So, what are the key elements to be a successful sales rep? Here are the 11 qualities only the best sales reps possess:
1. Stay Persistent But Respectful
Most sales require multiple follow-ups and contacts, yet reps are generally inclined to abandon a call after the first or second follow-up. The idea here is to not be too persistent so as to frustrate the prospect. However, a successful sales rep has to be persistent to close more deals. For inbound leads, 6 to 10 attempts to contact a person is considered the industry norm.
Persistence does not suggest aggressiveness. When following up with clients, ask if they are still interested in completing or achieving a goal with the help of your product or service. Speak with them about the issues they are facing and help them identify your product as a viable solution.
2. Be Goal-Oriented
It is every sales rep’s responsibility to know and understand what the goals are and what is expected of them. If you are not goal-oriented, then you are not moving towards the same direction as the rest of your team or company. This can lead to confusion, lack of motivation, and more. Keep track of the company’s goals as well as the personal goals you set for yourself. Make a plan and aim for it. Track your progress either bi-weekly or monthly. And, most importantly, be sure to celebrate those small victories.
3. Stake Your Claim as an Expert in the Industry
A good sales rep takes the time to study the company, its products, values, as well as the industry the company resides in. Understanding the target audience’s businesses — from general goals to daily tasks — is valuable. As an expert in the field, you will be able to help customers understand how your product can be applicable and useful in their specific business. You can use this information to guide and consult them and offer your product as a solution.
4. Be Tech-Savvy
Depending on the business you represent, you will be required to work with different technologies and software. This is why it is important that you take time to master the tech most frequently used in demos, meetings, presentations, or calls. The tech used can range from video communication tools, CRM software, outbound calling software, PowerPoint presentations, and so on. Learn how to troubleshoot common issues, bad internet connectivity, etc.
5. Adopt Active Listening
Paying attention to prospects and clients is crucial. If you don’t listen, you will not be able to provide useful information and solutions. Sticking to the script is important, yes, but every prospect and client is different. Their needs, issues, and goals differ. To understand their problems and provide them with the best help, you should listen actively to what they have to say. This way together both of you can make a plan that satisfies their needs.
6. Take Rejection Well
Rejection is a common occurrence with outbound sales calls. Not every prospect has the time, patience, or even interest in what your product is or what you are presenting. And while rejection is hard, a good sales rep knows how to overcome rejection. Take risks and pursue promising deals. And if you are rejected, bounce back and focus on the successes.
7. Focus on Building Relationships
As a sales rep, your job includes — and at times, depends on — building strong relationships. Therefore, you need to be able to build a rapport, strike up interesting conversations, and be a good listener. Research your prospects and their businesses deeply. Ask follow-up questions. Let your client know that they are important to you and your business and they are not just another prospect on your long list.
8. Network, Because Your Business Depends on it
Salespeople love to network. This includes being involved in relevant online and offline communities, having various business connections and relationships, and knowing the ways of your business and industry.
9. Multi-tasker
As a sales rep, you will be handling a variety of tasks and deals simultaneously. Therefore, you should know how to prioritize and juggle promising leads while responding to and following up with leads in the initial stages of the selling process.
10. Understand How to Communicate Well
This should go without saying but a sales rep that cannot communicate well will struggle with leads and clients. You should have good verbal and written business communication skills and use the right industry-jargon to inform, educate, and sell your services and products.
11. Patience (Is More Than a Virtue)
Finally, be patient. Inside sales can be hectic and often overwhelming. You will come across some very difficult clients and situations. Take the time to evaluate and find the best possible solutions.
Self-Evaluation is Key!
Evaluate yourself and understand your strengths and weaknesses with honesty and determination to consistently perfect your skills. How many of these qualities do you possess? And what areas do you need to improve in? Find yourself a good mentor who can help, teach, and guide you. With hard work, you can be the next successful sales rep in your team. Good luck!
Many in the sales industry ask if cold calling still works. The short answer is: yes, it still works but only if done right. Here are 7 practical cold calling tips that can help you generate better sales.
Generate Sales with These Cold Calling Tips
Businesses have been using cold calling for years to garner new customers and improve their sales growth. It is the most effective way to set appointments with relevant decision makers at your target accounts. However, while calling cold is easy it may not always convert into a sale, booking, or an appointment.
Here are successful cold calling tips that can help you manage these calls better with improved results.
1. Be Personable, Focus on the Prospect
Most individuals are not interested in being pitched to and may try to get off the phone as you try to make your sale. For this reason, it is important to develop a personable and human interaction at the very beginning of the call. Avoid sounding monotonous or reading straight off a script. Pause to ask prospects how they are doing. Try to understand their demographic and needs so you can present your product or service as a solution. Listen to their concerns or questions and provide easy-to-follow answers. Give them reasons to listen to your pitch and consider your product or company.
2. Follow Scripts But Don’t Be Robotic
It is recommended to stick to the script so you are not promising or adding anything that may cause an issue later. However, customize your interaction with each client. People can tell immediately if you are robotically reading a script and not pausing for questions. To avoid putting clients off, personalize the interaction by using their name, repeating something they mentioned before, and more. This will let them know they are not simply one of the million people you are speaking to and that their business will be valued.
3. Use Technology to Speed Up Processes
One of the most important cold calling tips is to upgrade the technologies used. Agents and employees performing cold calling in large volumes need the right tools to support their efforts.
Consider investing in an outbound call center software with customizable caller ID capabilities and a dialer. This way, you can override the caller ID to display a toll free or local number of the area being called. Prospects are more likely to answer a local number or one they recognize as local instead of a random number.
Use a web dialer to quickly place calls, save contact information and call notes, etc. A well-designed CRM to keep track of customer interaction can also greatly improve productivity and efficiency.
4. Be Respectful of Their Time
When contacting prospects, let them know you consider their time valuable. Start calls by asking how the client is doing. Let them know that this call won’t take long. If they seem to reject it or are busy, ask them when is a good time for a follow-up. Additionally, when booking appointments, instead of giving them a time, ask when would be convenient for them.
5. Make Calls During Certain Times and Days
One of the most common and oldest cold calling tips is making calls during specific times and days. For years, we have been told that Wednesdays and Thursdays are the best days to call, and it still rings true. Mondays and Tuesdays are important business days because people are usually planning their week, catching up on emails and updates, etc. They are more likely to reject calls during these days.
Additionally, you want to place calls during specific times of the day where they are more likely to pay attention to you. Studies have found the best times to call are between 11 am and 12 pm (before lunch) or 4 pm and 5 pm (as the workday ends). Calling early in the morning as people are scrambling to get to work will be more of a hindrance than a successful call. If you’re calling across time zones, we recommend using a world clock like timeanddate.com or 24timezones.
6. Always Follow-Up
Follow-up either by calling again or sending an email or text message. This follow-up can be to answer a question or query, to remind them of the upcoming appointment, collect feedback, or simply to check in.
7. Use Collaborative Language
Studies show that the use of collaborative language results in more successful calls. Use “we” and “our” language instead of “I/my” language. Make yourself appear as part of a bigger team. This can help build credibility and demonstrate your company as large and capable.
8. Do Your Research
Prospects appreciate when sellers do their research. At the very least, you should understand who your target customers are. You should also go the extra step and research the prospect before your call. For example, you should know the person’s name and his or her position in the company.
Keep these tips in front of your employees or refresh them in your next upcoming training. Experiment with them to see which works best with your product and service.
To learn more about Global Call Forwarding’s business phone service and how it can support your cold outbound calling efforts, call us at 1 (888) 908 6171.
More and more companies (call center or not) are using a call center dialer or a web dialer to support their outbound calling strategies. The main reason is that this type of dialer can be used on any device and from any location. Here we will discuss what these dialers are and 9 practical ways you can use them to increase productivity and customer relations.
What is a Web Dialer?
A web dialer or call center dialer is a keypad tool that allows your employees to make business calls through a computer or smartphone. Call center dialers and web dialers are not meant for call centers exclusively. Regular businesses that engage in outbound calling for sales or customer retention purposes can use this dialer to connect with local and international customers. Virtual phone service providers like Global Call Forwarding offer web dialers with their outbound calling service.
Who Can Use a Call Center Dialer?
Businesses of every kind — start-ups, remote and hybrid workspaces, small businesses, large enterprises — can use a web dialer to manage their inbound and outbound calling efforts. Depending on what type of company you operate, there are two types of calling:
Inbound calling: incoming calls by customers, prospects, and vendors usually for customer service and support.
Outbound calling: outgoing calls made by your team to customers and prospects to increase sales.
A web dialer allows you to receive and make calls from your computer or smartphone. This means that you do not need to invest in desk phones for every employee. They simply download a software, application, or browser extension. Most providers will offer a call center dialer with additional features such as the ability to save caller notes, update contact information, check voicemail, CRM integrations, etc.
Web Dialer: 9 Practical Uses
Here are the top 9 ways your team can use a call center dialer to increase productivity and efficiency.
1. Sales and Lead Generation
Use the call center dialer to quickly contact various prospects on your sales list and generate new leads. You can store and update prospect information, notes on the interaction regarding whether they qualify, whether they demonstrate an interest in the product, need a follow-up call, and so on. This way, you create a contact and the next time you call them, you have a history to build off of, and can quickly dial the number. Dialers are a call center favorite when it comes to calling large volumes of customers.
2. Increase Brand Awareness
Besides merely calling to make a sale or appointment, you can use a web dialer to promote your brand and increase visibility. Use market research to identify target audiences and demographics. Then, contact these potential prospects from this list and introduce them to your brand and its products and services. You can offer them a promotion or direct them to your website where they can learn more about the services you offer. This will help you get closer to target consumers.
3. Connect with International Clientele
Global Call Forwarding’s outbound calling service comes with a customizable caller ID capability. This means you can customize your outgoing caller ID and override it with a toll free or local number (of the location being called) previously purchased. Customers who receive such calls will see a toll free number or a local number and are more likely to answer the call. The main reason is that local or toll free calls are inexpensive compared to international calling.
You can get multiple international toll free and local numbers for countries across the world. With this service, you can call internationally for much cheaper rates and avoid paying long-distance calling fees.
4. Welcome New Customers
Use your call center dialer to welcome and verify new customers when they sign up or make their first purchase. This will demonstrate customer care as it shows that you value their business. You can verify purchases, offer to help them understand your service better, activate accounts, and so on.
5. Follow-Up on Recent Purchases
Check in with customers who made recent or repeated purchases with follow-up calls. Ask for feedback, how the experience was, or anything that can be done to improve the service. This too will display that your business cares about how customers interact with it. Your team should always try to improve customer service and this is one way to do so.
6. Reach Out to Abandoned Carts
Abandoned carts occur when an interested customer starts the check-out process but does not complete it. In other words, they abandon their cart and don’t make a purchase. Follow-up on abandoned carts with calls to identify reasons why customers may hesitate to purchase your product or service. Inquire how processes can be made simpler or help them complete the purchase.
7. Execute Customer Retention Strategies
Bringing new customers abroad can be more expensive than retaining customers. Having the ability to quickly contact important and valued customers can help you improve customer relations. Some good customer retention strategies include calling customers and prospects to:
Schedule new appointments
Set sales appointments at more convenient times
Remind them of upcoming appointments, payments, renewals, etc
Help reduce abandoned carts, and more
Keeping in touch with customers shows that your business is customer-focused and this will help you retain existing customers.
8. Raise Funds/Donations
Another useful application of a call center dialer is when your organization is conducting a fundraising campaign. You can reach out to members or prospects, present your campaign, and more through an outbound calling service.
9. Collect Customer Surveys and Feedback
Finally, a call center dialer can speed up phone surveys and help you collect feedback from customers about certain services, products, or interactions. Use this feedback to improve your overall service and offer better customer care.
Need a Call Center Dialer for Your Business?
Voice IP and web dialers can work together to give you the right tools to support inbound and outbound calling. Your business may fall behind if you do not take advantage of the right tools.
You can get a web dialer with our outbound calling service attached to your virtual phone number plan. Sign up today on our homepage or contact us for more questions!
When looking for a new business phone system to handle your office communications, you may have come across the term “softphone.” Here we will discuss what a softphone is, its uses, and how your business can benefit from one.
Definition of a Softphone
A softphone is a software that converts a device into a phone that makes and receives calls over the internet. In other words, it enables any device such as a computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet, iPad, etc., to place virtual calls. Add a headset with a microphone, a camera, and a voice over IP service, and you can even make and answer video calls through this software.
A voice over IP service works alongside a softphone as it converts voice signals into digital signals. And then transmits these signals from one destination to another through a stable internet connection. This is how virtual or VoIP calling is possible. Using VoIP technology makes it possible for businesses to stay connected and remain accessible from anywhere in the world.
How Does a Softphone Work?
Softphones run on most devices — Windows, Macs, Android, desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc. You can use a softphone by downloading a mobile or desktop app or through a web browser. In other words, a softphone is an internet phone that can be used through any IoT device. All you need is a microphone and speaker so that you can make calls without any interruptions. All important phone features are built into the softphone making it a user-friendly and cost-effective business communication solution.
Purpose of Softphones
More and more businesses are switching to VoIP phone systems for their business communications. Because of this reason, softphones are being developed to provide maximum benefit to users. What features come along with your softphone depends on your provider. Some offer extensive, advanced features while others offer basic ones. However, what features you need will be based on what you want to accomplish with your softphone. Consider these questions:
Do you want to simply make and answer calls?
Would you also like to set rules for forwarding and rerouting calls during off-hours?
Would you like a softphone that complements your outbound calling efforts by providing a customizable outgoing caller ID option?
Is it important for you to be able to update contact information and call notes within your softphone? And so on.
Key Features of a Softphone
Softphones are a flexible workplace communication tool that lets your employees easily connect with each other and with your customers. Most standard softphones will allow you to:
Add important call notes that can be later referenced
Check voicemail
And more.
Softphone vs Hardphone vs Deskphones
So, how does a softphone compare against a hardphone or deskphone? And does your business need a softphone or deskphone?
Deskphones are the traditional landline phones individuals use to make and receive calls. Hardphones are similar to traditional deskphones in that they look the same (have a base, screen, handle, and buttons) and are plugged into the workstation.
So, what is the difference between a deskphone and a hardphone? Hardphones are connected to the business’ IP network. So, they make and receive calls using the business’ internet connection instead of traditional phone lines made of copper wires. Therefore, headphones are also referred to as IP phones. Deskphones, on the other hand, work through traditional phone lines.
Softphones take the phone system to the next level by enabling communication through software instead of physical phones. Any device capable of making and receiving VoIP calls can be used as a softphone. Softphones have all the functions of a hardphone and deskphone. And since the software runs virtually, you do not need a traditional deskphone or hardphone set-up. This helps your business cut down on equipment-related costs.
Who Can Use a Softphone?
What types of businesses can benefit from softphones? Who uses a softphone or which teams can benefit from a dialer like this? Companies that have the following services or business factors can utilize a softphone to increase productivity and efficiency:
Customer support teams
Sales and lead tracking teams
Call center services
Remote or multiple offices
Telecommuters
Traveling agents
International clientele or contacts
Businesses that need to record calls, and so on
Why Your Business Need a Softphone
The main reason companies are keen on using VoIP is its great cost-effectiveness. With a voice over IP service and softphone, you can:
Call internationally for lesser fees
Lower monthly communication charges
Work remotely or from any location with the same business number
Use advanced features in one platform
6 Benefits of Using a Softphone
Using a softphone for business communications can lead to higher productivity and connectivity while reducing the amount of money your business spends on its phone system. You can streamline communication, ensure in-house and remote teams are connected, and enhance caller experience.
1. Empower Your Team to Communicate Better
By providing your employees with the right tools and technology, you give them the power to do their job well. A softphone lets employees connect from any device and any location. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use without any interruptions or missteps. Furthermore, most softphones integrated conveniently into existing CRMs, making it easy for users to access all information and tools in one place.
2. Use Advanced Phone Features
Equipped with multiple call features, you can create a robust phone system and manage incoming calls in a way that works best for your business. Route calls to different teams, groups, and locations, as needed. Customize caller IDs when making outbound calls. Transfer calls in-house. Add customer notes and check voicemails. Record calls. And more.
3. Connecting Remote Teams
Using softphones for remote teams means increasing team connectivity and collaboration. Employees can see when others are online and can connect with others to collaborate on projects or for knowledge-sharing and handover purposes. This way, no matter where your employees and teams are, they can continue to work together seamlessly.
4. Save on Equipment Costs
Since softphones can be used through any device (smartphone, laptop, desktop), your business can save on providing all employees with deskphone and separate, designated phone lines. Instead, employees can just work out of their desktops or laptops. This goes for remote employees as well who can simply use the softphone through their existing device.
Let employees and users collaborate by enabling them to easily connect with each other, share essential information, knowledge, and documents, as well as jump in on conference calls. Increased collaboration and knowledge-sharing lead to better product development as you identify what works well and what doesn’t with regards to your business and your products.
6. No Need for Additional Phone Lines
Lastly, since these business calls can be made through a software solution and not traditional phone lines, you do not need to add or purchase additional phone lines for your business and new employees. All you need is a VoIP phone service from a provider like Global Call Forwarding. And then, simply add and remove users as needed.
Get a Softphone Today
Are you ready to get a softphone to enhance and streamline your business communications? Global Call Forwarding can help! Sign up for our virtual phone number service and use our GCF Web Dialer for any device to make and answer calls through the internet. Call us at 1 (888) 908 6171 to get started!
Need a business phone number for your small business? Here is everything you need to know about these numbers and what to consider when purchasing them.
What to Keep in Mind When Getting a Business Phone Number
Business phone numbers are telephone numbers used by businesses to open communication channels between them and their customers. In other words, business numbers are used by customers to contact a business, either to inquire about a product or service or for customer support.
Getting a business phone number is a must as it is one of the first (and most used) methods an interested customer uses. Once a call is made, your team has the opportunity to convert the call into a sale and provide excellent customer service that makes the customer come back for more.
When creating your office phone system, there are a few things to take into consideration such as how to choose:
What business phone system is right for you
The type of business phone number(s) that will complement your needs
What phones or softphones you’d like for placing and receiving calls
Choosing the Best Business Phone System
When you get a business phone number, it is important to invest in a business phone system that supports it. Choosing the right business phone system can be tricky if you do not know what is available. You want a phone system with call forwarding, recording, video conferencing, IVR systems, and more.
Most new businesses will first consider getting a traditional phone system. However, thanks to advancements in technology we can now use cloud phone systems that come equipped with multiple communication features and are more cost-effective.
A cloud phone system works through voice over IP (VoIP); that is, it uses the internet to send voice messages between two parties. This makes it possible to have multiple numbers on the same line, have remote offices connected through the same number, and more. No extra hardware or setup needed. You simply get a business phone number from a VoIP provider like Global Call Forwarding and start making calls using any device you want, anywhere in the world.
How to Pick the Right Business Phone Number Type?
Next, you must choose a business number most suitable for your needs. VoIP providers like Global Call Forwarding offer a variety of options. However, the ideal number for you depends on what you want to accomplish or achieve with it. Here are the different business telephone numbers we offer:
Local numbers
Local phone numbers have specific areas, cities, or states assigned. They have predetermined area codes that distinguish them from other number types. You can get a local number for any city or state you’d like to establish your business in.
Toll Free Numbers
Toll free numbers start with a 3-digit code such as 800, 888, 877, etc. Large and established corporations have been using toll free numbers for years as they tend to generate higher incoming call rates. This is because calling a toll free number is free for the caller. A toll free business number is easy to forward to any location.
International Toll Free Numbers International toll free numbers (ITFN) give you access to customers and contacts in more than 160 countries across the world. This is a good option for businesses looking to enter new markets and provide global customer support. You can have incoming calls forwarded to your main office or remote offices through an international call forwarding service.
Vanity Numbers
These are great examples of vanity numbers: 1-800-TAXICAB or 1-800-FLA-BLUE. Vanity phone numbers use letters or patterns to create a more recognizable and memorable number.
Deskphones vs. Softphones?
Once you settle on a business phone service, you need to decide how you will handle incoming and outgoing calls. VoIP calls need an IP-based phone from brands like Cisco, Panasonic, etc., to function. A softphone or web dialer enables users to make and receive calls from their computer, laptop, tablet, or any device that is not a traditional desk phone.
Get a Business Phone Number
Now you know how business phone numbers work and what is involved in using a business phone system. To get business phone service from us, you can sign up on our homepage or contact sales at 1 (888) 908 6171.
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