What to Look for in an Answering Service
A ten-question checklist you can use with any provider.
Quick answer
Look for U.S.-based operators, true 24/7/365 coverage, a plan customized to your business, reliable backup systems, recorded calls for quality assurance, flexible message delivery, a disaster plan, a free trial and clear data privacy terms.
The checklist
Use these ten questions to compare providers. Each one includes how Answer Center answers it.
- Are the operators U.S. based?
How Answer Center answers: Answer Center is 100% U.S. based. - Is coverage truly 24/7/365?
How Answer Center answers: Live receptionists answer 24/7/365. - Can the service be customized to your business?
How Answer Center answers: Plans are fully customized, with a customized account that tells agents what to collect. - How reliable is the technology?
How Answer Center answers: A triple redundant backup system and a generator for prolonged power outages. - Is quality monitored?
How Answer Center answers: All incoming calls are recorded for quality assurance. - How are messages delivered?
How Answer Center answers: By text, email, voice mail, fax or a direct call. - Does it do more than take messages?
How Answer Center answers: Appointment setting, event registration, information requests and more. - Is there a plan for emergencies?
How Answer Center answers: Answer Center helps you write a disaster recovery plan. - Can you try it and see pricing?
How Answer Center answers: A free 7-day trial with no obligations and no contracts, and plans on the pricing page. - How is your data protected?
How Answer Center answers: See the Privacy Statement, the Data Processing Addendum and the data privacy questions form.
Common questions
What is the most important thing to check first?
Whether live operators are available when your customers call, including nights, weekends and holidays, and whether they follow instructions customized to your business.
Is a free trial important?
It lets you hear how your calls are handled before you commit. Answer Center offers a free 7-day trial with no obligations and no contracts.
Where can I find your pricing?
Virtual receptionist plans are listed on the pricing page, and customized pricing is available.
Does it matter where operators are located?
Many businesses prefer U.S.-based operators for clarity and familiarity with callers. Answer Center is 100% U.S. based.