One of the most powerful things a business can do is to get their customers what they need and to where they need to get it quickly and efficiently. In many cases small businesses with multiple locations struggle with this task. A customer calling the business doesn’t necessarily know which location they should look to in order to get what they need. Or they may not know that there is a location closer to them where they can do business. This is true of current customers as well as potential ones. If a business with multiple locations can direct callers to the right location quickly and easily they will increase efficiency as well as provide a better quality of customer service.
The traditional way businesses ensure that callers reach the right location is by using different phone numbers for each one. However, there are some downsides to this solution. It can be costly to maintain all of the different phone numbers needed for all of the locations. As well, the locations cannot communicate with each other without dialing a new number. And if the caller needs to be transferred to another location, there is no way to do that without the caller needing to hang up and dial another number.
Another way to ensure that callers arrive at the correct destination is by using a zip code routing system supported by a virtual PBX. A virtual PBX works like a standard PBX in that it has all the same features such as extensions, main menu greetings, voice mail, etc. However, there is no hardware to be maintained by the business and is therefore virtual. As well, a virtual PBX has features that are either traditionally out of a small business’s budget or are simply not available on a standard phone system. One such feature is the ability to direct calls based on a zip code. This feature allows a caller to enter their zip code so that they can be directed to the best location for them. This capability offers multi-location businesses a number of benefits.
A virtual PBX supporting a zip code routing system will increase efficiency.
• The zip code routing directs the caller quickly and easily.
• Because of the virtual PBX’s call routing features, the location can still redirect the caller somewhere else if need be.
• The virtual PBX allows locations to communicate with each other easily.
The zip code routing system can save the business money.
• There is no need for a central operator to route calls.
• Businesses only need one number for all of their locations.
A business can also increase the quality of their customer service.
• Callers are always directed to the location nearest to them for their convenience.
• The caller doesn’t have search for locations. The one number will direct them.
• Reduces caller frustration by getting them to the right place the first time.
For a small business with multiple locations a zip code routing system is a great tool. It allows callers to reach the location they need quickly and easily. At the same time the business will be increasing efficiency, improving the quality of their customer service, and saving them money.
