Operating a general contracting business is like being pulled in many directions. Of course, when you’re traveling to and from job sites, juggling the schedules of subcontractors and meeting with clients, something has to give, and that something is frequently answering every call that comes in. Missed calls are lost opportunities, as 85% of customers do not call back after their initial call went unanswered, according to research. This never-ending juggling game is leaving a lot of contractors feeling over-extended and missing out on work.
An answering service can offer the professional assistance required to catch those leads and keep in touch with clients, even when you are working from a job site. So an AI answering service from Signpost is one that can now easily tackle complex scheduling, emergency dispatch, and client inquiries while getting it right a majority of the time. These virtual receptionists are available 24/7, so you will never miss a lead while you execute on what you do best: delivering real work to your clients.
Answering Service for General Contractors: Overview
General contractor answering services for general contractors. You will find that answering services for general contractors are specially built for you, with features other than the standard call answering. These services specialize in the specific needs of construction businesses, such as emergency maintenance dispatching, estimate scheduling, and lead qualification. They offer 24/7 service, with a call protocol that can be tailored to you, and can integrate well with your current scheduling platform.
More specific contractor answering services will also differentiate between emergency calls that need a response at all hours and calls to simply book appointments or confirm a follow-up that can wait until the next day. Contractors using professional answering services were 30% more successful in converting their hot, qualified leads; they are therefore more of a business tool, rather than an added cost.
Tips For Finding The Best Answering Service for General Contractors
Think About Bilingualism
This is where bilingual call answering services can be so beneficial in most markets. A service with representatives who speak your local language to you can help increase your pool of clients and prevent communication problems that lead to losing business.
Analyze Pricing Structure
Compare pricing structures closely. Some charge by the minute, others by call volume, or flat monthly rates. Assess how many calls you would make in a typical month and choose a price plan that meets your business requirements and gives you the confidence of knowing exactly how much you will spend each month.
Consider the Industry-Specific Experience
Seek out answering services that have experience specifically in the construction and contracting industry. These would include jargon, customer FAQs, and their ordinary work habits. Ask prospective services about their experience providing support to contractors, and ask for examples of how they’ve helped businesses in a similar situation.
Test Your Call Handling Procedures
When you hire them, you get custom call scripts, so you can specifically tailor the service for your company. They should be able to:
- Distinguish between emergency and non-emergency calls
- We make appointments and estimates at the following pages
- Record precise notes/details regarding project requests
- Filter lead based on your conditions
Check Technology Integration
Your answering service needs to work with your tools and software effortlessly. Find services that can manage your:
- Scheduling software
- CRM systems
- Project management tools
- Text messaging platforms
Conclusion
Identifying the best answering service for your general contractor business can superpower your customer service abilities -and give you all the free time you need to get those projects over the finish line! The right provider will be a real extension of your team, presenting a professional image of your business and ensuring leads are not dribbling through the cracks.
However, when assessing options, industry experience, customization, and technology integration come first. Remind yourself that you should be making enough money off of goodwill and new business that the right service will pay for itself in short order. Utilize a professional answering service to grow your contracting business and remain accessible to your customers like never before.
