Communication is Key. Our telecom solutions enable our clients to focus on their business, without worrying about being out of touch.
Having a reliable phone system for your business — especially in the age of remote working — is crucial to your company’s success.
When you are considering switching telecom providers, you want to make sure that you are asking the right questions. The last thing you need, after you’ve switched telecom providers, is to learn that they have poor customer service, higher costs, and are unable to meet the unique needs of your business, team, and customers.
This blog outlines key questions you need to ask to ensure that you're getting the best technology and service possible.
The 6 Questions You Need To Ask Your Telecom Provider
1. How will your service better assist our team?
If you’re interested in switching telecom providers, it’s probably because you are looking for improved services. Perhaps your previous telecom provider was unresponsive or their technology was unable to meet your needs.
Whatever the reason for your switch, make sure you get specific answers on how your new provider will better assist your team and your customers.
2. How will your service increase our profitability?
Not only do you want your new telecom provider to benefit your team and customers — you also want them to benefit your company’s bottom line.
For example: Two City-Com clients requested a quote on a SIP telephone line. The first client, a medium-sized business, was able to save $925 a month. We found the second client, a small business, a SIP trunking solution that connected with their existing hardware and it saved them an impressive $250 a month.
Make sure to ask for examples that highlight how the telecom provider saved a client money and increased their profitability.
3. What days and hours can I reach your customer support?
Getting answers when you need them and fixing problems quickly is important for any business. Your business telecom solutions involve two distinct partners:
- A telecom company, like Bell or Rogers, provides you with your phone lines.
- A telecom company, like City-Com, provides you with the technology needed to route the phone lines.
When speaking to a provider of telecom technology, like City-Com, make sure you are asking about their customer support services, such as their hours of operation.
4. Do you have the expertise and equipment to help us scale up?
As your business grows, you’ll want a telecom provider that can grow with you.
Ask about the size of their biggest clients, the systems they have in place to help your business scale up, and the team they have to help your business grow.
5. Will you customize your services to best suit our business?
Your business is unique and requires unique telecom solutions. Be direct and ask the prospective telecom provider what business solutions they have for your business that’ll help your business reach its goals.
Be weary of a telecom provider that offers standard packages that include services you don’t need or are missing the services you do need.
6. How do you bill your customers and are those bills transparent?
No one wants surprises when they receive a bill from their telecom provider. Get clarity on whether you will be billed per service, per location, or both. Ideally, your telecom provider will provide you with the least amount of paperwork and billing so your business can keep administrative costs low and profitability high.
Make sure to do your homework
Asking the right questions is an important part of your search for a reliable telecom provider that can meet your business needs. However, there is more to include in your research, including reviews. Facebook and Google reviews will help you get a better understanding of how clients feel about a telecom provider. It will also allow you to see how the provider handles negative reviews or feedback.
Part of our mission at City-Com is to build long-term business relationships with our partners and clients. We do this through reliable and cost-effective communication services. If you are looking to switch telecom providers, get in touch with our team.
Key Takeaways:
- Assess Needs: Evaluate current telecom services to pinpoint areas for improvement before switching.
- Research Providers: Explore different telecom companies to find one that matches your needs and budget.
- Check Contracts: Review existing contracts for termination fees and obligations before making a move.
- Compare Packages: Compare pricing, plans, and features offered by various providers.
- Prioritize Customer Service: Choose a provider known for quality customer support and responsiveness.
- Ensure Coverage: Select a provider with reliable coverage and connectivity in your area.
- Plan Transition: Develop a smooth transition plan, including notifying stakeholders and scheduling installations.
- Negotiate Terms: Negotiate terms, pricing, and additional benefits with the new provider.
- Review Agreements: Carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the new contract.
- Monitor Service Quality: Keep an eye on service quality post-switch and address any issues promptly.
