If you are a general contractor, you know how fast things can move. You might be visiting several job sites, answering questions from your crew or meeting with clients. Also, you will have to check if supplies have arrived on time. Somewhere in the middle of all these your phone keeps ringing. Sadly, you might be losing potential customers when calls go to voicemail.
People do not like leaving voicemails. They want answers as quickly as possible. This is the reason why using answering service for general contractors can make a big difference. They can help you stay on top of calls even when you are too busy to pick up. Keep reading to know how they work and why they matter.
The Problem with Voicemail
The majority of people do not leave messages anymore. They move on if they call and you do not answer. They will Google another contractor and dial the next number, hoping someone else will pick up. That missed call could have been a big job such as a full home remodel or a new addition.
Voicemail is not only inconvenient but can also be the reason you are losing leads. Customers expect to talk to someone right away. They assume you are too busy or not interested in their business if you do not pick up the phone.
Always Have Someone Ready to Answer
An answering service ensures that someone answers every time; instead of letting calls go to voicemail. Your business is available around the clock for customers.
The person on the other end sounds professional and ready to help. They can take the caller’s name and details about the project. Also, they pass along the message to you in a way that fits your schedule.
Make a Strong First Impression
That first phone call is a big moment. Your callers may have already done research before calling your business. Maybe they found your name online or got a referral. They are reaching out because they are interested. But this interest fades quickly if they get sent to voicemail.
With an answering service, every caller gets a warm and friendly voice on the line. It immediately gives your business a more professional feel. Even if you are running a startup, callers will think they are dealing with a well-established company. This type of first impression builds trust, which results in more jobs.
Focus on the Job, Not the Phone
Part of being a general contractor is getting pulled in a dozen directions every day. You cannot always stop what you are doing to answer the phone. An answering service lets you stay focused. They handle the calls so you can handle the work. No more pausing in the middle of a task to pick up the phone. Also, you won’t be feeling guilty about letting the phone ring. You can check your messages when you have time and follow up with serious leads without the pressure of being on-call 24/7.
Capture More Leads Without Extra Effort
An answering service helps you capture more business without doing more work. It asks the right questions such as the type of project the caller needs help with and when they’d like to schedule a consultation. Then, the service sends this information to you.
Stay Ahead of the Competition
Competition is tough in the world of general contracting. There are plenty of skilled contractors out there that are just a phone call away. Thus, someone else might be answering calls you failed to answer yourself.
Using an answering service gives you an edge. You can respond faster and give potential customers a better experience from the first call.