So I get it: you're motivated to get your business up and running. Money is not a huge concern, since you are going to make all your start up cost back in the first year. Well, with my own mistakes and technical experience, let me gently pull you down to into reality. This way you won't fall painfully into some of the dumb mistakes I've made and seen.
1. This is the HOTTEST mistake to make right now. Don't go VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) unless you need and will benefit from it. A digital phone system is reliable, and typically will provide everything you need with a 25% savings over VOIP. I know when I purchase technology I am always nervous it will be out dated in 2 years. The BEST solution to this right now is to get a hybrid system. 1/2 Digital and 1/2 VOIP. Some systems, like the TOSHIBA will let you go fully digital, with the option to add a card and give you the benefits of VOIP if you find that you need it at a later time. So if your not sure if you'll need VOIP at a later time...Definitely go with the HYBRID Phone System, this way you don't pay for VOIP unless you need it.
2. Most common and deadly mistake. Not buying enough dial tone for your business. One of the worst things you can do is save $25 dollars a month on a phone line and let your customers or potential customers get a busy sign when people call in. Don't buy excess dial tone, but if you think you are occasionally using all your lines, monitor it closely, call in to your business 2 to 3 times a day during the peak calling time. If you EVER get a busy, add another phone line.
3. Make sure your VOICEMAIL is set up correctly. People already are agitated at voicemail. If you have your voicemail answering and filtering calls, make sure every option not only works correctly, but gives enough time for the caller to make a descision. NEVER just disconnect a caller. Send them to a general mailbox. This actually happened to me the other day when I called another Phone System provider to ask a question. I didn't push one of the options in time and it just Disconnected ME!
So develop a good working relationship your Phone System provider. Make it clear to them that you want this phone system to function at its highest level for your company. Explain how you answer and handle calls. Your phone system should have all the capabilities you need and your Telecom / Phone System provider should be able to make it happen for you.
