Choosing the right conference call provider is crucial for fast and efficient business meetings. The wrong provider could slow productivity and make you look unprofessional.
Are you looking for your first conference call provider? Or searching for an upgrade to your current system?
Research shows that 45% of all workplace meetings happen via conference calls, so having the right system in place is really important.
The right system makes your employees more productive, efficient, and satisfied — while the wrong system is a frustrating waste of time for everyone.
Need help finding the right conference call system?
Keep reading.
- Know What’s Most Important to Your Employees
Your employees are the people who will use your conference call service the most, so getting their input is essential.
Features you consider important might not matter as much as you think, and your employees might have considerations that never even occurred to you.
For example, employees might be desperate for the ability to change PIN codes to make them easier to remember, while you might be worried about a video call feature they never use.
If you’re a large organization, send round an email asking for thoughts. For smaller businesses, pop into the office for a chat.
- Look for Extra Features Like Screen Sharing
Some conference call services are pretty bare-bones, which might be all you need.
However, if you want extra features like the ability to share screens, access calls from multiple devices, and make video calls, you’ll need to make sure that they’re included or available as extras.
You should also ask if any of these features come with additional costs, as they’re not always free.
- Ask About Personalization Options
Will your employees be able to set up account details that they can easily remember?
Or will every call be plagued by latecomers who ‘couldn’t remember the pin’?
The level of personalization offered by your provider can make a big difference to productivity, so get clear on what can be changed and what can’t — and how easy the process is.
- Get Details on Installation and Support
A good conference call provider won’t just get your system set up, they’ll also be around to provide ongoing support.
Most systems require some initial training for staff, followed by assistance as you all get to grips with things over the following months.
Ask what the ongoing support is like, as well as whether it costs extra or is included in your package.
- Assess Cost and Check for Hidden Charges
Conference call packages vary massively in price. Some include lots of special features as standard, while others charge for everything outside the basic offering.
You’ll need to know the fee per minute for calls, the cost for calls abroad, and the cost for having multiple users on one call.
Look closely through the contact to make sure you aren’t caught out by any large hidden charges.
If you’re struggling with finance, look online for the best free conference call providers and consider upgrading later.
Signs of a Good Conference Call Provider
A good conference call provider will clearly lay out all charges, explain how to personalize the system, and provide good ongoing support after installation.
Good providers will also include special features, like screen sharing.
Want to learn more about making your office run smoothly? Check out the latest articles right here on our OfficeFinder blog.