Say Halloo to the Best Virtual Phone System for Small Business

A virtual phone system uses internet-based technology to manage phone calls. When a call comes in, it is directed to the virtual phone system's server, which then routes the call to the appropriate phone or extension based on pre-set rules or preferences. Calls can be routed to a mobile phone, landline, web phone, mobile app, or VoIP phone, among other options.

The benefits of using a virtual phone system include increased flexibility, scalability, cost savings, and improved communication capabilities. With a virtual phone system, businesses can manage phone calls from anywhere, customize call routing and messaging, and scale their communication needs as their business grows.

A virtual phone system is different from a traditional phone system in that it is entirely cloud-based, with no need for physical equipment or installation. Traditional phone systems are typically landline-based and require physical hardware, such as a private branch exchange (PBX), to manage incoming and outgoing calls.

Virtual phone systems typically offer a range of features, including call routing, voicemail, call recording, automated attendants, call forwarding, call screening, and conference calling. Some systems may also include features such as video conferencing, fax messaging, and integration with other business tools and software. Halloo has tons of features designed enhance communications for both small and larger organizations.

Yes, many virtual phone systems allow businesses to use their existing phone numbers with the service. Alternatively, businesses may also opt to use a new phone number provided by the virtual phone system. Halloo offers local US numbers, toll-free 800 numbers, and toll-free vanity numbers.

Virtual phone systems typically require minimal hardware and software to use, as they are cloud-based and do not require physical installation. Generally, all that is needed is an internet-connected device, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Halloo provides web-based calling and call management as well as Android and iOS apps.

The cost of a virtual phone system can vary depending on the provider, the number of users, and the features included. Affordable Halloo plans start at $4.95 per month.

Some virtual phone system providers may require contracts or long-term commitments, while others offer month-to-month pricing with no commitment. Halloo offers both monthly and annual prepaid plans with a risk-free, 30-day refund policy..

Virtual phone systems are generally considered to be reliable and secure, as they are hosted on cloud-based servers with redundant backups and security protocols. In addition, a virtual phone system can provide businesses with increased resilience and flexibility in the event of a disaster or on-premise equipment failure. These systems can help ensure business continuity, provide remote access to phone lines and voicemail, offer redundancy and failover capabilities, and provide cost savings by reducing the need for physical equipment and infrastructure. Halloo has been serving thousands of businesses reliably for over twenty years.

Both a virtual receptionist and an auto attendant are used to manage incoming phone calls, but they differ in their level of complexity and functionality. A virtual receptionist is a live person who answers calls and routes them to the appropriate person or department, while also providing basic information and taking messages. Virtual receptionists require training and may involve minimum contracts that may cost several hundreds of dollars per month and up, depending on call volume. An auto attendant is an automated system that uses pre-recorded voice prompts and menu options to guide callers to the appropriate destination. Auto attendants can be set up quickly and can be implemented for just a few dollars per month.

A telephone hunt group is a telecommunications feature that distributes incoming calls to a group of designated phone extensions. The call is routed to the first available extension in the group and if the first extension is busy or unavailable, the call is routed to the next available extension until the call is answered or all extensions have been tried. Hunt groups can be set up with various configurations and are commonly used in businesses and organizations that receive a high volume of incoming calls to ensure that calls are handled efficiently and effectively.

A Direct Inward Dial (DID) number is a telephone number that allows callers from outside an organization to dial directly to an individual extension or department within the organization's private branch exchange (PBX) system. Each extension or department is assigned its own unique phone number, enabling callers to bypass the receptionist or auto attendant and directly reach their intended recipient. DID numbers can provide a more efficient and streamlined calling experience for customers and other external parties, allow businesses to track and analyze call data, and allocate call costs more accurately. These numbers are provided by telecommunications service providers and can be configured to work with a wide range of PBX systems and other telephony solutions. Halloo can provide local and toll-free DID numbers for individual extensions or groups.