Sponsored Content by AnswerConnect.
In franchising, consistency is crucial, yet new franchisees may have difficulty preserving the brand’s image. Customers, on the other hand, want consistent customer service. If you want to take advantage of the sales growth predicted by the IFA Economic Outlook[1] for Franchising 2021, you will need help. Outsourcing your receptionist function with AnswerConnect Franchise will help you increase efficiency and maintain brand consistency. Businesses save money on labor costs by outsourcing, allowing them to focus on their core competencies.
Here are the 5 top reasons for outsourcing your receptionist position.
- Save time by qualifying new leads upfront.
Lead qualifying happens early in the sales process, ideally during the first interaction. A virtual receptionist can rapidly determine whether the person you are speaking with is serious about purchasing what you are offering. Salespeople will be more efficient, productive, and driven because of this. Without it, you risk wasting time conversing with people who will never convert, losing valuable business time.
- Increase availability without financial overheads.
Offering a 24-hour call answering service ensures that you meet your customers’ expectations of always being available. It also means you will be able to serve and support customers from all time zones. This allows your business to expand beyond its geographic location. Customers in different time zones will struggle to contact your support team if you only offer support during your local time and will be more inclined to abandon the process.
- Customers prefer speaking to a person.
According to a (Zendesk) survey, more than half of all customers across all age groups prefer to contact a service team by phone, while (CFI Group) research shows that more than 76 percent of all consumers prefer to contact customer care professionals by phone. On the other hand, a (Microsoft) report claims that bots’ effectiveness in addressing difficulties has dropped to 28%. Bots are not popular among Americans. New independent research, commissioned by AnswerConnect, revealed that “4 out of 5 people prefer to speak with a human by phone, rather than a chatbot, email, or voice recording.”. Your clients want to speak with a live person. Every time the receptionist answers the phone, they will communicate with clients consistently and professionally. This entails being polite, speaking confidently, and engaging the consumer in a way that demonstrates a genuine interest in their requirements.
- Offer personalized customer service.
Personalization in customer service boosts engagement and establishes a connection with clients, making them feel valued and significant. This builds trust and has the potential to influence customer behavior and purchasing habits. It is the reason the answering service combines scripting and caller history. That information allows any receptionist who answers the phone to properly address the client and build trust by referencing previous calls or information as needed.
- Manage fluctuations in responsiveness.
Outsourcing better positions you to respond to fluctuating demand. During peak demand, it is difficult to train, hire, and then lay off workers afterward. Outsourcing mitigates these risks. The answering service already can meet your fluctuating capacity requirements.
Outsourcing non-core revenue-generating activities are one of the most effective ways to increase profitability. This is especially important for a franchise owner, who can benefit from a shorter learning curve by utilizing proven strategies. The answering service will assist you in managing your calls and appointments, freeing you up to engage in business activities that will help you maximize your profits.
If you would like to learn more, please contact AnswerConnect Franchise Sales at 800-584-0234.