Switchboards Connecting People
Switchboards are, essentially, electronic panels that allow for calls to be transferred from one telephone to another, or to be put on hold. Switchboards are a necessity in any business as they make your business appear more legit and professional, and give you control over your calls, so as not to lose potential sales.
Making the connection
A receptionist or switchboard operators answering skills are critical for businesses. The telephone is still, most businesses, primary point of contact with customers. And the way you answer your company’s switchboard, will form your potential customer’s first impression, of your business. When you answer the phone, be warm and enthusiastic. Your voice at the end of the telephone line is sometimes, the only impression of your company a caller will get.
Imagine a switch board in this manner. You have 8 telephone incoming lines, and 24 employees. Not all employees use a telephone, all at the same time, so they can share lines. A switchboard basically takes those 8 telephone lines and shares them out as needed. A single telephone would be pointless for implementing a PBX
Two basic types of switchboards
There are two basic types of switchboards, Interactive Voice Response (IVR) and Automatic Call Distribution (ACD). Interactive Voice Response switchboards are popular switchboards for small businesses. The typical situation involves a caller needing to speak to someone specific, in another department or section of the company. The receptionist is usually the person who answers and transfers the call to the relevant person. The caller can also use voice commands or select different options on the keypad. There are three types of IVR switchboards:
Inbound IVR switchboards give businesses the option of routing calls, managing queues, recording greetings, securing leads, and providing information. Outbound IVR switchboards give businesses the ability to give out invitations to events, reminders for appointments, alerts and updates, regarding inventory and shipments, and satisfaction surveys to customers. The third type of IVR switchboards, are a combination of the functions of inbound and outbound respectively.
Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) switchboards are also computerized, but are designed for large businesses, typically those who make use of call centres. They work by the distribution of calls, to the first available operator. These operators work with dashboards and computer screens, which they can view data on. This system, helps to reduce the time, a customer waits, for their call to be answered. The system also makes use of caller ID or automatic number identification, for obtaining and storing the customer’s telephone number
Purchasing the correct switchboard for your requirements
When purchasing a switchboard it is essential to evaluate your needs, so as to not purchase a system with features you will not require. The internet can help you to locate switchboards companies and switchboards manufacturers, who can supply you with a quote on a switchboard for your business.
Switchboard manufacturers are involved in the manufacture of the different types of telephone switchboards, and in some instances a switchboard manufacturer is also a supplier of switchboards
Get quotes for PABX Systems from 3Q today.