The Complete Guide to Answering Services for General Contractors
Running a general contracting business is no easy task. Entire teams are often busy with site visits, supplier coordination, and handling various additional requirements. Missing even a single call can mean lost business. Not to forget, it could mean missing key information about contracts or failing to cater to customer demands and requests. Fortunately, there is a better way to manage calls for general contractors – An AI voice receptionist. Check it out to learn more about the features, but before that, here is an overview of what to expect.
What Is an AI Answering Service?
AI voice agents are powered by natural language processing, artificial intelligence, voice synthesis, and machine learning. The models are designed to attend calls on behalf of service businesses, including general contractors. From taking messages to answering frequently asked questions, AI can do everything. The idea is to ensure each call is answered promptly. Why do general contractors need an answering service? The reasons are many:
- Teams are always on the move, which makes it difficult to take customer calls.
- Incoming barrage of calls from clients, suppliers, inspectors, and subcontractors.
- High expectation of customers who want a professional response without delays.
- In-house teams work for only fixed hours every day, which means after-work calls are often missed.
- This is an extensive burden on the front desk staff, as they often have to handle other administrative tasks.
- They need a better way to capture new leads and projects.
How do you select a Dependable AI Voice Agent?
First and foremost, consider your current call volume and areas that need improvement. For instance, is your business missing out on callers during weekends and holidays? How often do you deal with urgent requests after work hours? Once you know the requirements, comparing options gets a lot easier. Some of the key features to look for include –
- 24/7 Availability: The AI answering service should work around the clock
- Capabilities: AI should capture caller details and interact with them by understanding the intent
- Call Routing and Forwarding: If the AI agent cannot help a caller, the call should be routed to a real person
- Compatibility: The new answering service should seamlessly integrate with other tools, including CRM and calendar.
- Support: Ensure that the provider offers ongoing and consistent assistance to ensure uptime and availability.
Pricing varies drastically between different providers, but you will usually pay for a package that includes fixed minutes. If required, you can switch between plans, but that said, make sure you understand what you get from the provider, including the features discussed above.
Consider Flexibility & Control
When it comes to using an AI receptionist, you have to check how effectively and seamlessly you can upgrade scripts and related information. Many providers make it easy to tweak the knowledge base so that teams don’t even need technical expertise. As a client, you want the new system to be flexible and cater to your contracting business needs without diluting control.
Benefits of Using an Answering Service
General contractors can benefit extensively from answering services. Firstly, AI ensures that no call ever reaches the voicemail. Callers also get professional and polite responses, and because AI voice agents can respond to regular questions and requests, the experience is consistent. Increasing the front desk strength isn’t the most feasible choice for many businesses. There are recruitment, training, and management expenses, which may not make sense, especially because an AI receptionist would cost a lot less. With AI, it is possible to ensure customers get support, even when the business is scaling rapidly.
If you haven’t considered using an AI voice receptionist, it is about time that you get a demo. You will be surprised to know that the initial setup often takes less than an hour!