Do You Need a Remote Office Phone System? Yes. Here’s Why
Imagine a customer (or potential customer) wants to call your office — but your team doesn’t work in an office together. Maybe they’re at home, in coffee shops, or in co-working spaces across the country, if not the globe. What number should the customer dial? How do they connect with you and your team?
This dilemma became a reality for businesses when the pandemic prompted a sudden shift to remote work. Now, as remote and hybrid work are the norm for many industries, traditional landline systems are rendered impractical, if not entirely obsolete.
So, how have businesses with remote or hybrid teams adapted? Many have implemented remote office phone systems.
A remote office phone system provides a single, (typically cloud-based) phone solution that ensures your entire team remains connected to your customers, regardless of their physical location. Let’s take a close look at the benefits of remote office phone systems and how to implement one in your own organization.
What Is a Remote Office Phone System?
A remote office phone system refers to modern telephony solutions which leverage VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) or cloud-based PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems to facilitate voice communication over the internet.
These aren’t your garden-variety phone systems — they’re sophisticated, software-based solutions hosted on cloud servers, offering more than voice communication. By operating over an internet connection, these systems also make it possible to use powerful call management features including phone menus, auto attendants, voicemail transcription, and more.
At AccessDirect, we offer a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) setup with better flexibility and efficiency than many other VOIP or virtual PBX setups. Our solutions allow you to use your personal cell phone for business communications without exposing your personal number. Calls to your business are seamlessly routed to your personal device (and/or your employees’ personal devices), following rules you specify. This ensures you never miss an important call, all without compromising your privacy.
Remote Office Phone Systems Vs. Traditional Landlines
Traditional landlines rely on physical lines and switchboards, which require substantial maintenance efforts and costs. In reality, landlines don’t work well for remote offices — they rely too much on physical location, and setting them up for remote workers will cost more than the system is worth. It may not even be possible at all.
On the other hand, remote office phone systems (VOIP/Virtual PBX systems) thrive on flexibility. Since they operate over the internet, they enable your team to access the company phone system from anywhere. Whether your team is working from a home office or a beach halfway around the world — as long as there’s an internet connection, these systems can work. This global accessibility ensures your remote employees remain an integral part of your communication network without being shackled to a physical location.
Types of VOIP/Virtual PBX Systems
In general, there are two primary types of VOIP / PBX phone systems that operate via the internet: on-premise and hosted systems.
On-Premise Phone Systems
On-premise solutions are VOIP/Virtual PBX systems that operate on your company’s premise, on your own servers. This offers more control and ownership over the phone system, however it presents challenges for remote teams.
To host your own phone system, you need dedicated servers, hardware, and significant maintenance efforts. All of this will likely require a facility to house it all — but if your team is fully remote with no company-owned location or “premise,” this might not be possible.
Hosted Phone Services
Hosted VOIP/Virtual PBX systems are the ideal solution for remote teams. Hosted externally by a phone service provider, these systems require little to no additional hardware on your part. Your business benefits from the full suite of phone system features, maintained by skilled technicians, all for a simple monthly or yearly fee.
This setup not only minimizes your hardware investment but also eliminates the hassle of system maintenance, letting you focus on what truly matters—your business.
What Can You Do With a Remote Office Phone System?
Implementing a remote office phone system can revolutionize your operations. By connecting your entire team to your customers, you can unlock new growth opportunities and streamline work in a way that isn’t possible with any other system.
Give Your Customers Access to Your Remote Business
Connectivity is at the heart of a remote office phone system. It bridges the gap between your customers and your distributed team, ensuring that no matter where your team members are located, your customers can reach them. This level of accessibility is crucial in maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and service.
Use a Toll-Free or Local Phone Number
With a remote office phone system, location is less important. You can use either toll-free numbers to project a broader business presence or local numbers to maintain a local community presence.
Toll-free numbers can enhance your brand’s image, making your business appear larger and more established. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses looking to expand their reach. However, using local numbers (even multiple local area codes) can help businesses establish trust in new communities. However you use it, a virtual system can be tailored to suit your brand image and customer base.
TIP: When you switch your phone service to AccessDirect, you can even keep your original phone number. This prevents service interruptions as your loyal customers can call the same number they always do.
Allow Team Members to Use Their Cell Phones
The modern workforce values flexibility and privacy — a remote office phone system provides both. By integrating your phone system without revealing personal numbers, team members can use their devices to make and receive calls for business without compromising their privacy.
This enhances work-life balance, allowing employees to separate personal and professional calls easily. It also ensures they can work from anywhere, which has shown to increase productivity and job satisfaction.
Keep Communication Organized
Remote office phone systems also help you keep your communications organized. For instance, features like voicemail transcription transform how teams manage their messages by transcribing voice messages into text. Rather than listening to every message on your machine, you can scan the details of a message (the caller, their request, callback number, etc.). This way, you can respond to the most important messages first, which can be the difference between closing a deal or missing out on new business.
Scale Communications for Enterprise Remote Work
As businesses grow, so do their communication needs. VOIP/Virtual PBX systems are scalable and designed to grow with your business. Adding new lines or extensions, routing calls, and adapting to new work environments can all be done with ease, without the logistical nightmare of managing the physical hardware. For businesses with seasonal peaks in call volume or those on a fast track to expansion, this is a must.
Get Your Remote Office Phone System From AccessDirect
AccessDirect is ready to equip you with the tools you need for your business to thrive — wherever you are. Our hands-on approach to customer service ensures your transition to a remote office phone system is smooth and hassle-free.
Are you ready to transform your business communication and embrace the future of work? Experience the convenience and flexibility of a BYOD remote office phone system firsthand. Sign up for a free trial today and see how our solutions can streamline your operations, enhance customer interactions, and support your remote workforce.
How Does a Remote Office Phone System Work?
As a business owner, you don’t need to understand the ins and outs of how a VOIP/Virtual PBX system works. However, to choose the right remote office phone system for your needs, it helps to understand some of the technology.
Utilizing a Cloud Connection
A remote phone system uses the cloud to connect your individual team members and bridge the gap between your team and your clients. Unlike traditional phone systems that demand a maze of physical lines and hardware, a cloud-based PBX or VOIP system only requires the installation of software on your devices.
Whether accessing the system through a cell phone, a physical phone setup, or a headset, the streamlined process doesn’t require cumbersome equipment. This eliminates the need for hefty installation fees and negates ongoing maintenance or IT service costs.
How To Set Up a Phone System for a Remote Office
Implementing a VOIP/Virtual PBX system for your remote office is less daunting than it appears. Here’s the basic process:
- Ensure your team has a reliable internet connection. You’ll need this for any virtual system and most forms of remote work.
- Obtain any necessary hardware. This may include computers, headsets, or smartphones, depending on your preferences and the needs of your workforce. In many cases, you will already have the hardware you need.
- Choose the right phone service provider. This step can significantly reduce the complexity of setting up the system.
AccessDirect simplifies this process exponentially. Our expertise and customer-centric approach ensures you won’t navigate the setup process alone — or at all. When you choose AccessDirect, we handle everything. Just call us, and we’ll take care of the entire implementation, including:
- Setting up your new phone number
- Configuring call routing and phone menus
- Recording professional, custom greetings for voicemails, auto-attendant services, and more.
As part of our commitment to ease and efficiency, this hassle-free setup is yours at no extra charge.
What Does a Remote Office Phone System Cost?
When evaluating the cost of a VOIP/Virtual PBX system, it’s important to weigh that cost against the value it brings to your business.
Basic VOIP services, offering inbound and outbound call capabilities, typically range from $15 to $30 per extension per month. However, this can vary depending on how you configure your phone service package. For instance, at AccessDirect, our Direct Receptionist package services five extensions with 1500 free minutes and a suite of virtual phone service features for just $39.95 per month. That equals just $7.99 per extension per month.
But the true value of a remote office phone system becomes evident when considering the potential savings. For a team of 15 employees, switching to a VOIP phone system could translate to monthly savings of approximately $200 to $500 in just service prices compared to traditional landlines. However, this calculation doesn’t even factor in the additional time (and labor) savings gained from call management features and superior customer service from AccessDirect.
Why You Should Get a Remote Office Phone System
When comparing a VOIP/Virtual PBX system to traditional telephony or all-in-one solutions (those that provide texting, video calls, etc.) — there are clear reasons why each of these alternatives aren’t ideal:
- Unlike landlines, which are impractical and costly for remote work, VOIP systems offer cost-efficiency, minimal hardware requirements, and unparalleled flexibility for a distributed workforce.
- VOIP/Virtual PBX systems outshine all-in-one communication solutions by providing a focused, high-quality service. Rather than spreading resources thin across multiple, poorly supported products, we provide refined services that have proven to work for decades.
AccessDirect Phone System Features
With a remote office phone system from AccessDirect, you get an extensive array of call management features designed to keep you connected with your team and your customers. Our service ensures that every call is handled professionally and efficiently, enhancing your business’s image and customer satisfaction.
- Find-Me Call Routing - Help your callers avoid voicemail by automatically routing their call to the next available person (based on a custom sequence).
- Virtual Call Management - Never miss an important call again. Enjoy peace of mind while your callers benefit from high-end, professional call answering services
- Professionally Recorded Greetings - Our team will write and record custom professional greetings that reflect positively on your brand and enhance your customer service.
- Voicemail Transcription - Every voicemail will include its own transcription that you can read from your email to scan for relevant details and prioritize your responses.
- Individual Or Department Extensions - Your callers can reach exactly who they need, when they need them. With a single number, you can offer several individual or department extensions — however you like.
- Music On Transfer - Holds and transfers are often inevitable. Provide your callers with a welcome music break and project a high-end image for your business.
- Dial-By-Name Directory - Our automated front desk system answers calls and transfers callers quickly and easily to their desired contact.
- Fax To Email - Your incoming faxes can also be converted to digital text, so you can stay on top of what’s happening in your small business from wherever you are.
- Custom Solutions - Every business is unique — that’s why we offer a wide range of phone service options you can customize, so you only pay for what you need.
Upgrade Your Remote Office With a Phone System From AccessDirect
The transition to remote work has demanded more flexible, reliable communication solutions. Many companies are shifting to remote office phone systems — and it might just be the perfect move for you.
A remote office phone system goes beyond making and receiving calls. It’s a comprehensive solution that allows customers to connect with your business while allowing your team to remain flexible. Whether you’re looking to improve your customer service, enhance your team’s productivity, or scale your operations, a remote office phone system is a great next step.
AccessDirect will be your partner in this transition. We offer easy-to-use virtual phone services backed by unparalleled customer support. We handle the setup so you can focus on what you do best: running your business.
Experience the difference an AccessDirect remote office phone system can make for your team. Sign up for a free trial or call us today to learn more.
Reach Your Atlanta Customers With A Location-Based Phone Number
Imagine a customer (or potential customer) wants to call your office — but your team doesn’t work in an office together. Maybe they’re at home, in coffee shops, or in co-working spaces across the country, if not the globe. What number should the customer dial? How do they connect with you and your team?
This dilemma became a reality for businesses when the pandemic prompted a sudden shift to remote work. Now, as remote and hybrid work are the norm for many industries, traditional landline systems are rendered impractical, if not entirely obsolete.
So, how have businesses with remote or hybrid teams adapted? Many have implemented remote office phone systems.
A remote office phone system provides a single, (typically cloud-based) phone solution that ensures your entire team remains connected to your customers, regardless of their physical location. Let’s take a close look at the benefits of remote office phone systems and how to implement one in your own organization.
- 404: Used only for the city of Atlanta
- 470: Used for the Atlanta metro area + the surrounding suburbs and exurbs
- 678: Used for the Atlanta metro area + the surrounding suburbs and exurbs
- 770: Used only for Atlanta’s surrounding suburbs and exurbs
- 943: Added in March 2022 to cover the same areas as 470 and 678
Together, these codes cover Alpharetta, Atlanta, Berkeley Lake, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Decatur, Doraville, Johns Creek, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, North Decatur, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, and Vinings.
Choose your new number from our wide selection of local Atlanta phone numbers. Otherwise, we’ll gladly host your existing number at no extra charge. Your first number is included free with any new subscription, and we’ll help you set everything up to serve your customers as best as possible.
Ready to start serving Atlanta? Call us today to get your Atlanta phone number and virtual phone setup.
What Customers Say About AccessDirect
Together, these codes cover Alpharetta, Atlanta, Berkeley Lake, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Decatur, Doraville, Johns Creek, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, North Decatur, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, and Vinings.
Choose your new number from our wide selection of local Atlanta phone numbers. Otherwise, we’ll gladly host your existing number at no extra charge. Your first number is included free with any new subscription, and we’ll help you set everything up to serve your customers as best as possible.
Ready to start serving Atlanta? Call us today to get your Atlanta phone number and virtual phone setup.
Serve Your Customers Every Time They Call
Professionally Recorded Greetings:
Online Account Manager:
White Glove Customer Service:
Simultaneous Calls:
Voicemail to Email:
Voicemail Transcription:
Use Your Existing Number:
Multiple Greeting Options:
Mobile App:
AccessDirect is Here To Help
You want to run your business, and we want to help you do that. We’re ready to go above and beyond to help you provide big-business service to your customers (regardless of your company’s size).
With AccessDirect, you can:
- Get a new Atlanta number or use your existing number. When you buy a local Atlanta phone number from AccessDirect, it’s yours. You own it. That means you can still keep using it even if you stop using our services. But there’s so much more we can offer. If you want all the benefits of an AccessDirect virtual phone system but you already have a local phone number, that’s fine! We’ll set you up with the same suite of features and connect that service to your existing number.
- Connect your team (wherever they are) to your customers. Our virtual receptionist setup ensures your team is available from a single business number. This is perfect for businesses operating remotely or across multiple locations.
- Professional recordings of voicemail greetings at NO extra cost. Let’s face it — not everyone has a “professional” speaking voice. Even if you do, you may not have the confidence (or the time) to record a professional voicemail message. We’ll write and record professional greetings that fit your business and brand.
- Add more Atlanta numbers for less. Your first Atlanta phone number is included with your AccessDirect subscription. But what if you have multiple locations in Atlanta and surrounding metro areas? No problem. You can add more Atlanta phone numbers for just $9.95 each per month.
- Live phone support from our in-house customer service team. We offer live, US-based phone support if your team ever needs help. When you contact us, you’ll get help from a team of knowledgeable professionals trained to resolve issues while you’re still on the line. You’ll be able to get back to business knowing your callers are still able to reach you.
- No contracts or setup fees. With AccessDirect, there are no hidden costs and no surprise fees. We’re confident enough in our services without them!
Add An Atlanta Phone Number With Any AccessDirect Plan
DIRECT EXECUTIVE
Single Call Transfer & Voicemail System
$19.95 / per month
DIRECT RECEPTIONIST
For Small Businesses with 2-25 Employees
FROM $27.95 / per month
DIRECT ENTERPRISE
For Companies With 25-100+ Employees
FROM $99.95 /per month
Connect With The Business Capital of the South
Excellent Location
Educated Population & Thriving Middle Class
Pro-Business Culture
It isn’t surprising that so many classic American businesses (including Home Depot and UPS) got their start in Atlanta. In addition to statewide benefits, Invest Atlanta sponsors local businesses with grants and support in building their businesses from the ground up. The Urban League of Atlanta houses the Entrepreneurship Center, which runs business accelerators designed to help small businesses acquire specific skills. Of course, there’s no missing a Startup Runway event, where entrepreneurs can win up to $10,000 with their business pitch. It’s no wonder that Site Selection named Atlanta as the top city to do business in for seven years straight.
Growing Population
Connect Authentically and Build Trust With An Atlanta Phone Number
Most people won’t call or answer a phone number with an area code they don’t recognize. If you’re here to serve and reach out to Atlanta, you want to make that clear with an Atlanta phone number and area code.
Anyone trying to make it in Atlanta’s economy needs a local phone number. At AccessDirect, we have exactly what you need. We’ll get you set up with a local Atlanta number (and your included answering service) right away, so you can get back to doing what you do best: serving your customers.
Not good with technology? Don’t sweat it. We’ll install everything for you and answer your questions every step of the way. Our customer service team is US-based, and we always work to help you and solve your problem while you’re still on the line. We’re not the “call back later” type — and we set you up so you aren’t, either.
Join up with Atlanta’s tapestry of thriving businesses and let your customers know you’re legit. Don’t get ruled out before your customers even pick up the phone. Get an Atlanta phone number for your business and show that you’re proud to serve the ATL. We’ll be with you to help every step of the way.