Good Strategy For Long Distance Savings
November 4, 2009
Damon Brown wrote a very practical plan to choose the best long distance plan for Inc. Technology. Taking his advice seems fool proof.
“Here are six tips for finding the best phone plan for your business:
Tip #1: Go rate shopping each year
Phone company rates aren’t static. More importantly, the needs of your company will change over time. “It would also be wise to check rates again at least once each year,” says Stephanie Chandler, founder of BusinessInfoGuide.com, a Sacramento, Calif. based newsletter and website for entrepreneurs and start-ups. ”You can potentially save a lot of money by shopping for the best long distance plan on an annual basis.”
Tip #2: Consider a cell phone-based plan
If you have a highly-mobile business or need phones for only a few employees, experts recommend considering cell phones. Furthermore, nearly all cell phone carriers charge the same for local and long-distance calls. “Since cell service gets more reliable every day and most include long distance, this can be a viable option for many small businesses,” Chandler says.
There are a few big disadvantages. One, there are limited minutes during normal business hours, which are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays for most cell phone carriers. Two, a basic phone line may still need to be installed and maintained for Internet and fax usage (though a local-only line can be significantly cheaper). Three, make sure the carrier’s coverage is good in your office.
Tip #3: Consider Internet-based calling
Vonage and other new phone companies now offer long-distance calling via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which allows your business to call people for less by routing communications through the computer. Monthly fees are around $40, and often include a fax line, call forwarding and caller ID. Unfortunately, the service requires a special phone adapter, broadband connection and, most bothersome, no Web surfing while a call is being made (splitting the modem feed would be required).
VoIP is fairly new technology, but AT&T and Qwest are now offering packages. “If you want to tiptoe in, try a company with a money-back guarantee,” recommends Kim Komando, Microsoft Online’s workplace technology expert. “And make sure you understand the terms before taking the plunge.”
Tip #4: Join organizations for group discounts
The Small Business Association, the National Business Association, and other organizations often offer deep discounts on long-distance services. Networking with other businesses is always a good idea, but weigh the potential savings against the cost of membership.
Tip #5: Separate local and long-distance services
While packages can save money, experts say separating local and long-distance services may save additional money. More creative types can use a flat-rate cell phone for long distance and a traditional line for local calls. Also, provided you have the patience to dial some extra numbers, using a phone card will give a cheaper per-minute average. “A prepaid long-distance card can cut costs if you don’t make many long-distance landline calls,” according to Consumer Reports. The publication estimates it can save businesses a few hundred dollars annually.
Tip #6: Ask for estimate based on usage
Measure or calculate your likely call usage. Ask potential providers for a rough estimate of your potential monthly bill. “If they can’t answer this question in advance, then choose another provider,” Chandler says.”
I have always found that shopping around for better prices on things like long distance and insurance have paid off. What perhaps we should do is take a look at them twice a year rather than just once…if you have the time.
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