Steer Clear Of These Common Conference Call Mistakes

Have you ever witnessed an awkward moment during a conference call? If so, you know how uncomfortable things can get. Below are some tips that will help you steer clear of conference call pitfalls.

Technology Fails
On a conference call, there is nothing worse than an embarrassing technology faux pas. It is so important to make sure that your computer and phone are working properly prior to the call. After all, you don't want your computer or phone to malfunction during an important presentation.

Becoming Distracted
If the conference call is not particularly interesting, some workers can become distracted and start doing other things.  For instance, a worker might play games on their computer to pass the time. However, you do not want to be known as the employee who can't pay attention in meetings.

Not Introducing Yourself
It is no secret that there are usually a lot of participants on conference calls. If you decide to speak up and say something, do not forget to introduce yourself. This oversight can confuse the other participants of the call. 

If your phone system keeps going haywire during conference calls, it is time to invest in a new one. The professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems can help you find the best phone system for your business. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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How To Purchase A Phone System For A Small Business

Shopping for a new phone system is no simple task. After all, you have to figure out which system suits your needs. Below are some of the most popular phone systems among small businesses. 

PBX Systems

A PBX system relies on a traditional landline phone system. However, it has additional UC features, such as video chat, fax capabilities and text messaging. These systems are ideal for small businesses that have over 40 employees. 

VoIP Phone Systems

VoIP phone systems are great for small businesses because they are an affordable option. Small business owners will appreciate this cost-effective alternative! These phones do not operate like traditional landline phones. They need an internet connection to send and receive phone calls.

Cloud-Based VoIP Phone Systems

A VoIP phone system can also be supported by the cloud. In this type of system, the data is stored off-site. If something happens to your physical business location, you will still be able to use the phone system.

Are you interested in switching from a traditional phone system to a PBX system, a VoIP system or a cloud-based VoIP system? If so, the professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems can help with that transition. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Different Types Of VoIP Phone Systems

Did you know that there are different types of VoIP phones systems? Now you do! Keep reading to find out what sets each of them apart.

Desk Phones
While VoIP desk phones may look like traditional landline phones, they require an internet connection in order to work. A VoIP phone has more capabilities than a landline phone. For example, they can transcribe voicemails into text. 

Wireless Phones
There are also wireless VoIP phone systems. This is beneficial for people who are always on the go. With a WiFi-enabled wireless VoIP phone, they are not tethered to their desk. 

Softphones
A computer that has installed a software application can act as a VoIP phone system. This application makes it possible to send and receive phone calls. Since softphones are cost-effective, they are perfect for call centers and remote employees. 

IP Conferencing Phones
Does your business conduct a plethora of conference calls? If so, an IP conferencing phone can make these calls even easier. These phone systems are built to accommodate many users at once. 

VoIP phone systems allow you to connect whichever hardware phone works best for your business! When you want to transition from a traditional phone system to VoIP, contact Reliable Voice & Data Systems. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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How To Sound Confident On The Phone

Whether you are having a phone interview or calling a client, sounding confident on the phone is vital. However, nerves can kick in and make you sound unsure. Continue reading to discover ways to exude confidence on your next call. 

Record Yourself Speaking
Some people hate listening to themselves on a recording. Nonetheless, listening to a recording of your voice can help you discover areas that need improvement. It might become obvious that you need to slow down or use more inflection in your voice. This step is critical for becoming a better communicator on the phone.

Get Rid of Filler Words
Have you ever noticed how some people say uh, um or like in everyday conversation? These filler words are commonly used when you are thinking of what to say next. However, these words can make you sound less knowledgeable. Be sure to remove them from your vocabulary!

Adjust Your Posture
Even though the person on the receiving end of the phone call cannot see you, your posture can have an impact on your voice! Hunching over can make you sound insecure. Conversely, sitting up straight or standing up can help improve your posture and your confidence.

Communicating confidently with clients or customers is essential for every business. If your current phone system is preventing you from making important calls, it is time for a new one. Our professionals can help you find a phone system that meets all of your needs. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Tips For Talking To Disgruntled Clients On The Phone

Talking to an unhappy customer on the phone can be very stressful. Fortunately, there are certain steps you can take to resolve the situation. Below are some tips to help you do just that.

Play It Cool

It is easy to get swept up in the moment and lose your temper. Do not let the customer's tone have an impact on your tone of voice. Instead, do your best to stay calm, cool and collected. After all, matching their frustration could only make things worse. 

Practice Active Listening

Everyone wants to be understood. This is especially true in the case of a disgruntled customer. As they are explaining what happened, be sure to use your active listening skills. Listening intently to their complaint can help you get to the heart of the matter.

Offer A Solution

At the end of the conversation, come up with a solution. Not only will this help end the phone call on a good note, it can help ensure that they remain a loyal customer. Offering them a free service or product can make a big difference in their level of customer satisfaction. 

If your business provides customer service over the phone, a reliable phone system is a must-have. When your phone system is on the fritz, it is time to opt for a replacement. The professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems are ready to help you find the ideal phone system. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Tactics To Prevent Theft At Retail Stores This Holiday Season

It is that time of year again--time to go holiday shopping. That means it is also time for retail stores to up their loss prevention game. Below are some tactics that can help prevent theft during the holiday season.

Hang Theft Prevention Signs
Hanging signs that spell out the consequences of shoplifting can deter thieves from committing the crime in the first place. Once they realize how much they could be charged in fines, stealing becomes a lot less appealing. It is a good idea to hang these signs near products that are very valuable. 

Monitor Cash Registers
It is no secret that thieves could take cash right out of a cash register. To avoid this scenario, make sure an employee is always close to the cash registers. That way, the registers will be a less vulnerable target. 

Have CCTV Security Cameras Installed
One of the best things you can do to help keep your business safe and secure is to have CCTV security cameras installed. That way, you will be able to see what is going on in the store from different vantage points. It will allow you to spot and stop a shoplifter in real-time.

If you are interested in having CCTV security cameras installed at your retail store, turn to the professionals here at Reliable Voice & Data Systems. We can assist you in your search for the perfect security solution. To learn more, or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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Ways To Keep Phone Calls Brief

It is one thing to make small talk when you are on a call with a client. However, it is another thing entirely to go off on a tangent and ramble for an hour. Below are some tips that will allow you to keep phone calls brief.

Cut To The Chase

When you are on the phone with a client to discuss an important matter, there is no need to beat around the bush! It is better to be direct and get to the point as soon as possible. That way, you do not have to waste your time or theirs!

Keep The Conversation To 19 Minutes

Being on the phone with a chatty client can prevent you from tending to your other responsibilities at work. To avoid this scenario, try to keep the call to just 19 minutes. This will help keep the chit-chat to a minimum. 

Set A Hard Stop

At the beginning of the call, it is a good idea to mention that you have a hard stop at a specific time. That will establish an end time for the call. It is a polite and professional way to ensure that the call does not run over.

When your phone system is preventing your employees from connecting with clients, it is time for a replacement! At Reliable Voice & Data Systems, we specialize in helping business owners find the right business phone system. To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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How To Take Control Of A Sales Call

On a sales call, there is usually some sort of power dynamic. It is imperative for the sales representative to steer the conversation in the right direction. Below are some tips that can help you take control of a sales call.

Set Time Constraints

Being on time for a sales call is crucial. After all, it demonstrates that you are professional and respectful of the other person's time.  It is equally as important to establish an end time for the call. To do this, simply indicate that you have a hard stop for the call at a particular. This will prevent you and the potential client from rambling or going off on a tangent. 

Stick To The Agenda

Another way to take control of the call is to mention the agenda before diving into the presentation. That way, the participant of the call knows what will be discussed. It is normal for the participant to have questions throughout the call. However, sticking to the agenda and answering questions at the end of the call can keep things on track. 

Exude Confidence

Last but certainly not least, it is essential to be confident on a sales call. A good sales representative is very knowledgeable about their product and can confidently convey the benefits of it to the potential customer. This can get their attention because they want to know what is in it for them!

If your phone system is making it difficult for sales representatives to make sales call, it is time for a change. We can help you find the right phone system! To learn more or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (877) 385-6657.

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