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24th June 2020 blog, Sales Management

Top 11 Qualities of a Successful Sales Rep

18th June 2020 blog, Sales Management

7 Cold Calling Tips to Close More Sales

17th June 2020 blog, Call Center

9 Ways for a Call Center to Use a Web Dialer

12th June 2020 blog, Cloud Telephony

What is a Softphone? A Complete Guide

11th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

How Do I Get a Business Phone Number?

11th June 2020 blog, Business Insights

5 Ways to Earn Trust in the Financial Services Industry

9th June 2020 blog, Call Center

6 Practical Tips for Managing Virtual Call Center Agents

An image of Singapore virtual phone numbers.

4th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

Singapore Phone Numbers: The IMDA Numbering Plan Explained

4th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

Top 9 Virtual Phone Number Providers [2025]

Top 11 Qualities of a Successful Sales Rep

Luke Genoyer 24th June 2020 blog, Sales Management

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!

7 Cold Calling Tips to Close More Sales

Miguel Isabal 18th June 2020 blog, Sales Management

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.

Try These Cold Calling Tips!

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.

9 Ways for a Call Center to Use a Web Dialer

Nadine Sampson 17th June 2020 blog, Call Center

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!

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What is a Softphone? A Complete Guide

Chase Rogers 12th June 2020 blog, Cloud Telephony

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:

Make and answer calls
Transfer calls to different departments
Forward and reroute incoming calls
Set call forwarding rules
Call outbound by customizing your caller ID to display that of the region you are calling
Use call waiting settings
Call by dialing through a dial pad
Call with a single click
Update and manage contacts (name, phone number, email address, physical address)
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.

5. Encourage Collaboration & Conferencing

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!

How Do I Get a Business Phone Number?

Chase Rogers 11th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

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.

5 Ways to Earn Trust in the Financial Services Industry

Nadine Sampson 11th June 2020 blog, Business Insights

Why is it important for a finance company to earn its customers’ trust? So that they see the value in your company and return. Additionally, returning customers hold the ability to bring new customers to your company. So, what can you do to earn trust for your finance company?

Finance Companies: Top Ways to Earn Trust

There are a few different ways of earning customer trust and respect. These range from improving the way your business and its employees interact with clients to using technology and marketing to your benefit. Here we look at 5 practical ways to earn trust in the financial services industry.

1. Value and Focus on Customer Interaction

This should come as a given. The best way to retain customers and earn their trust is by giving them a reason to trust your company and its services. Care for your clients. Focus on ways to improve client relations and increase positive experiences. Don’t let technology replace human interaction. At the end of the day, customers trust humans more than automated services. Make sure that clients and prospects reaching out through email and phone receive the same (or similar) treatment as they would in a face-to-face meeting.

2. Improve Transparency and Credibility

The best way to earn trust with current customers is by being forthright and transparent with them. Gaining new customers is more expensive than retaining existing ones. And therefore, your finance company should focus on customer satisfaction and retention. In other words, what can you do to provide honest, ethical, and good customer support?

Avoid hidden agendas and surprises in payments and billings. Run through your terms and conditions with them in detail. Explain early termination fees and other fees they should be aware of. Help them understand ways they can avoid damages and unnecessary payments.

By doing so, you will be creating a reputation for your company as one that provides honest work and actually cares for their customers’ concerns and benefits. By informing your customers and clients, the more they understand and value your work, and the more they trust your services. This further helps build credibility and trust.

As your financial services firm builds credibility with customers, it’s important to be in compliance with local and international regulations. Recent laws like MiFID II require all VoIP calls to be recorded. Penalization is among the worst things that could happen to a new financial services business.

3. Take Advantage of Digital Advancements

Any finance company that is not using digital and technological advancements is behind in the game. These advancements can help make processes easier and bring your services to your customers’ fingertips. For example, Positivly combines the principles of positive psychology with digital advancements in modern wealth management to create a stronger connection and build trust.

There are many other ways that financial services companies can incorporate digital advancements to build trust. Here are a few:

Optimize your website for smartphones
Allow for better digital payment methods: mobile payments or payments, renewals, and account verification through an automated IVR system
Create an easy-to-navigate app with helpful and informative resources
Use a PSP to accurately and securely accept payments
Use the latest cybersecurity to protect your clients and their information from fraud

4. Manage Reputation and Demonstrate Expertise Through Marketing Resources

Market creatively and for the benefit of your target audience. Your marketing strategies can determine how the public views your finance company and its reputation and credibility. Therefore, this is a good way to demonstrate your expertise and good customer service practices.

Produce informative and educational content on your website and optimize it for search engine results. Use social media to highlight important financial advice and information and connect with younger audiences. Generate newsletters with current news and promotions rewarding existing customers. Include reviews and testimonials.

Showing how your company conducts its business and that your employees are experienced and know what they are doing can help earn trust. Use marketing strategies to manage your reputation and improve the way customers view your services

5. Make Your Business Accessible

Lastly, being a financial services company, your company must remain accessible. A well-functioning and reliable business phone service can help you stay connected. Open multichannel communication such as phone, email, live chat, social media, and SMS (instant messaging).

You may even consider getting a toll free number so that prospects and customers can call your office for free. Additionally, if you get virtual business numbers with call forwarding, then you can have calls forwarded to different offices or lines.

Global Call Forwarding can help you set up a reliable business phone system with premium communication features that help in improving customer relations. To learn more, call us at 1 (888) 908 6171.

6 Practical Tips for Managing Virtual Call Center Agents

Chase Rogers 9th June 2020 blog, Call Center

What are some ways that you, a virtual call center manager, can encourage your employees and agents to perform well? Agents who do their job well will bring more business to your remote contact center and therefore, it is important to keep them motivated and trained. Here are 6 tips to motivate your agents while executing your duties in the most effective manner.

How to Manage Remote Call Center Agents

Managing work-from-home call center agents can be tricky if you do not know where to start. A remote call center works through virtual agents and offices. And this lack of physical office location can prove difficult when it comes to monitoring agents and their interactions. However, there are tools and options available to make this process much easier for managers. Here we will look at the different methods you can try to motivate your agents, monitor their work, and train them to do better.

1. Set and Reiterate Goals

It is important to always be on the same page about the goals and standards of the company. As an agent, what is the agent’s ultimate goal and what steps do they need to take to reach these goals? Provide clear and easy-to-follow instructions and make yourself approachable for any questions or concerns that may arise. Refresh these goals in team meetings or group chats to keep it fresh.

2. Train and Retrain Your Employees

No matter how experienced an agent may be, it is always a good idea to have them go through a brief period of training. This may include refreshing the way certain things are done or running through new software together or doing some practice calls. You may even choose to listen in on a few calls to study how the agent handles themselves. On a similar note, conduct online workshops or group seminars to run through essential training as a refresher for existing agents.

3. Provide Helpful Training Materials

Besides workshops and training, give them access to sales webinars, software tutorials, textbooks, and classes that may help them improve their sales techniques or outbound calling strategies. Having access to these materials will help them stay in touch with the system and processes being used. It will also help them learn about new trends in sales and customer service.

H3: 4. Explain the Importance of Building Strong Customer Relationships

Since this is a virtual call center, efforts must be focused on building strong customer relationships. Therefore, it is important that your agents understand why and how they need to pursue this goal. Educate them on the value of having long-term and returning customers and how loyalty can impact customer retention rates. This information should motivate them positively and encourage them to provide stellar service. This will help improve CSAT scores.

5. Provide Agents with the Right Call Center Tools

Helping your call center agents also includes choosing the right call center software for your call center. Whether it is getting an outbound calling service with an easy-to-use dialer or an IVR system that distributes calls evenly so that no agents become overwhelmed. Having the right resources can make sure your agents are not overloaded with calls and are able to provide solid support.

6. Focus on Improving Quality Assurance

Consider using VoIP call recording to evaluate how agents interact with customers and callers. Here you can identify areas of improvement and highlight appropriate agent behavior. This can also be used for training purposes with the goal to improve virtual call center quality assurance.

Improve Your Virtual Call Center with Global Call Forwarding

Global Call Forwarding offers virtual call center tools such as IVR, outbound calling, call recording, and more. Learn more about our services by talking to an expert today!

Singapore Phone Numbers: The IMDA Numbering Plan Explained

Chase Rogers 4th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

The Republic of Singapore has one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia. Its booming economy provides great potential for foreign investment. In this article, we will detail the different types of Singapore phone numbers that exist so you can find one suitable for your communication needs.

Telephone Numbers in Singapore

Telephone numbers in Singapore are regulated by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The IMDA created a National Numbering Plan. The National Numbering Plan describes how Singapore phone numbers are administered and managed. It also sets out the eligibility and assignment criteria along with application procedures for various number types.

The goal of their National Numbering Plan is to provide a level playing field for competition and ensure that the number allocation process in Singapore is fair and transparent.

Singapore Numbering Plan and Format

Due to its small geographical size, all phone numbers in Singapore belong to the same area code and are eight digits long. The formatting convention for a Singapore phone number is +65 NXXX XXXX.

According to the National Numbering Plan, phone numbers are classified based on their leading digit. Singapore numbers with leading digits 3 and 6 are reserved for IP telephony and PSTN service, respectively. Shortcodes are typically three or four digits long.

Other special service numbers, such as ITFS and premium-rate numbers, also exist in Singapore.

What Country Code is Singapore?

The country calling code for Singapore is +65. This means that when calling a Singapore phone number from outside the country, the caller should dial +65 followed by the destination number. While inside the country, callers can omit the +65 and simply dial the eight-digit number.

History of the Telephone in Singapore

Singapore is reported to be among the first countries in the East to have a highly developed telecommunication infrastructure. The telephone was first introduced in Singapore in 1879. Since then, there have been tremendous nationwide developments. This helps enable such a small country to have such an advanced infrastructure and thriving economy. Some of the leading exchanges or service providers include Singtel, StarHub, M1, and Global Call Forwarding.

How to Get a Singapore Phone Number

It’s easy to get a Singapore phone number in just a few minutes. First off, we recommend choosing a trusted provider of business phone numbers within the country. Of the utmost importance is high voice quality. In addition to voice quality, we advise that you do not sign a long-term contract. Our service, for example, is month-to-month without any long-term commitment. There is always documentation required to get started, which is standard KYC procedure for any Singapore phone number provider.

Anyone can get a Singapore phone number, even if you’re located outside Singapore. People who want to answer calls in another country would, however, need to choose a provider with international forwarding capabilities. Once you choose a provider, you can get started in just a few easy steps. The best providers usually have Singapore numbers available for fast online activation.

Singapore Virtual Phone Number Pricing

Through our evaluation of the top phone number providers, we recommend that you choose a provider offering month-to-month service. Once again, you must be able to stop the service if the need arises. This is the monthly pricing that we found for phone numbers in Singapore:

Virtual Singapore phone numbers start at $12.95 per month.
Toll-free numbers start at $18.95 per month.

Singapore Toll-Free Numbers

Singapore toll-free numbers are for businesses operating in Singapore. The formatting convention is 800 XXX XXXX. They have existed for years and continue to be in high demand due to their ability to attract potential customers. Customers do not have to worry about high calling rates when calling a business with a toll-free number.

Additionally, individuals associate toll-free or 800 numbers with established businesses, improving your company’s visibility and credibility. This encourages them to connect with you regarding product inquiries or customer support.

Benefits of Singapore Phone Numbers

So, what are the benefits of Singapore numbers? Here are some advantages when you get a Singapore number:

Expand your business to Singapore
Create and maintain a local presence that will benefit your business
Explore new markets and customer bases
Increase sales and lead generation in Singapore and
Provide local or toll-free customer support
Increase your business’s professional appearance and improve regional credibility
Route calls to anywhere in the world via a stable internet connection
Keep your remote offices well-connected

Learn More About Singapore Phone Numbers Today

To get a phone number in Singapore or learn more about how they can boost your business’ communications, call us at 1 (888) 908 6171!

Top 9 Virtual Phone Number Providers [2025]

Luke Genoyer 4th June 2020 blog, Business Phone Numbers

Choosing a virtual phone number provider can be a daunting task. There are so many service providers that exist in today’s market. This guide helps you navigate the best virtual phone number providers in 2025.

What is the Best Virtual Phone Number Service

Virtual phone numbers (also called hosted phone numbers) are telephone numbers that route calls over the internet; that is “virtually.” VoIP services make a lot of sense for small and medium sized businesses. In fact, studies show that more than 30% of all businesses worldwide are using some type of virtual number service.

It can help businesses reduce telephony costs while scaling their communication systems. There are so many options available today that can expand the capabilities of any business phone system.

What Are the Types of Virtual Phone Numbers?

There are several different types of virtual phone numbers available from providers in 2025. We consider the most common types:

Local phone numbers: assigned to specific states or cities within a country
Toll free numbers: assigned to specific countries with a designated prefix; charges the receiver instead of the caller
International toll free numbers (ITFN): toll free numbers for international countries; best for businesses with global offices

Hosted phone number services are typically made possible through international call forwarding. This enables providers to offer number originations in a certain country while they forward calls to other countries worldwide.

Key Factors Considered in Our Evaluation

The most important things to consider when choosing a virtual phone number provider are service, quality, and reliability. First off, we recommend choosing a provider that has been in business for more than ten years. It is also important to choose a provider with an outstanding reputation for call-quality and customer support.

We evaluated the best virtual phone number providers based on more than twenty different factors. Here are some of the many factors that we considered in our evaluation:

Pricing: this includes the total pricing for virtual phone number service. We consider whether their plans are priced monthly or annually and whether services are billed annually versus monthly. Some virtual number providers also charge per user. Also, setup costs were taken into consideration.
Convenience: it is important to choose a provider that offers convenient ways to get numbers and manage your services.
Ease of Use: we always recommend choosing companies that have an easy to use control panel to manage service features.
Service Features: IVR is essential in today’s business environment.
Customer Support: service and support should be a company’s top priority.
Reputation: we checked the Better Business Bureau for complaints against companies in our list.

Who are the Best Virtual Phone Number Providers?

We have put together a list of 9 virtual phone number providers for your convenience based on features offered, variety of plans, set-up/cancellation options, etc.

*Note: Prices and information about the providers mentioned here are current and subject to changes.

1. Global Call Forwarding

Features:

Variety of hosted phone numbers: toll free (160+ countries), local, ITFN, UIFN, vanity
Mobile accessible numbers
SMS-enables numbers
Unlimited extensions for different departments
SIP trunking and VoIP phone systems
Call forwarding options
Outbound calling (customizable caller ID function)
Call recording (inbound and outbound)
Customizable IVR systems

Cost: Global Call Forwarding offers 5 different virtual number plans based on business needs: $12.95/mo, $23.95/mo, $78.95/mo, $158.95/mo, $248.95/mo

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contract: No; cancel anytime

Free trial: 7-day free trial for business accounts

2. Jive Communications

Popular Features:

Call management tools
Call blocking
Custom schedules
Find Me/Follow Me feature
Integrations
Unlimited SMS and messaging

Cost: Contact a Jive representative

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No; cancel anytime

Free trial: First month free

3. Talkroute

Popular Features:

Toll free, local, vanity numbers
Outbound calls
Interactive voice response (IVR)
Call Logs and Reports
Single and multi-digit extensions

Cost: Talkroute offers 4 different virtual number plans: $19/mo, $39/mo, $59/mo, and $99/mo.

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No; cancel anytime

Free trial: Yes, 7-day trial

4. Vonage

Popular Features:

Call screening
Do Not Disturb function
Call monitoring
Voicemail (transcript form)
Integrations: Salesforce and Zoho

Cost: Vonage offers three virtual phone number plans: $19.99/mo/line, $29.99/mo/line, and $39.99/mo/line.

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No; cancel anytime

Free trial: 14-day free trial

5. CallHippo

Popular Features:

Local, toll free, and vanity numbers
Call conferencing
Call queuing and barging
Smart call forwarding
Simultaneous ringing
Call recording
Analytics and reports

Cost: CallHippo offers 4 virtual business number plans: $18/user/mo, $24/user/mo, $40/user/mo, and customized solutions with features of all the previous plans.

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No; cancel anytime

Free trial: No

6. RingCentral

Popular Features:

Unlimited calling
Call recording
Voicemail-to-text
Analytics and reports
Flip calls between devices
Call screening

Cost: RingCentral has 4 virtual phone number plans: $29.99/user/mo, $34.99/user/mo, $44.99/user/mo, and $59/99/user/mo.

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No, cancel anytime

Free trial: Yes

7. OnSIP

Popular Features:

Unlimited voice and video calling
Call recording
Website chat
Inbound bridge
Voicemail boxes
Polycom phones included

Cost: OnSIP has 2 virtual business number plans: $18.95/user/mo and $49.95/mo for each account + 2.9¢ per minute.

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: N/a

Free trial: Yes, 30-day

8. Phone.com

Popular Features:

International, toll free, and local numbers
Call routing
Unlimited extensions
Texting services
Call management tools (call transfer and forwarding options)
CRM integration
Voice tagging
Ring-ready phones

Cost: Phone.com offers 3 pay-per-minute virtual number plans: $12.99/mo, $19.99/mo, and $39.99/mo. They also offer 3 unlimited plans: $29.99/mo, $37.99/mo, and $49.99/mo.

Set-up fees: N/a

Long-term contracts: N/a

Free trial: No, 30-day money back guarantee

9. Nextiva

Popular Features:

Unlimited calling
Unlimited video conferencing
Call recording
SMS
Mobile VoIP app

Cost: Nextiva offers two virtual phone number plans: $20/user/mo and $27/user/mo

Set-up fees: No

Long-term contracts: No

Free trial: Yes

Get Virtual Phone Numbers From a Trusted Provider

We can help you get virtual numbers most suitable for your business needs. For an efficient and reliable virtual phone system, consider virtual phone number provider Global Call Forwarding. To learn more, speak to an expert at 1 (888) 908 6171 today!