VoIP providers are a dime a dozen these days, but not all of them offer useful VoIP apps to help you manage your calls. If you intend to switch to VoIP for your business calling needs, you absolutely have to choose a provider with an app that works across all platforms. Here’s how to find the best VoIP apps for small and medium sized companies.
What to Look for in a VoIP App
If you’re looking for the best VoIP apps for your SMB, you need to take a good look at your business and analyze your needs. Large enterprises will seek out IP phone systems that can replace all their desk phones, connecting every cubicle. But a small business doesn’t need that and shouldn’t worry about it.
Regardless of the size of your business, the VoIP provider you choose should offer an app that works on Android, iOS, and PCs. Linux is a plus. The app should work over any internet connection, not just Wi-Fi. You should be able to make and receive calls using the app, and unlimited calling is the bare minimum when talking about VoIP services.
Let’s take a look at what features to look for depending on your business’s needs.
Startups and Solopreneurs
If you’re just starting out and have a team of fewer than 5 people, or are running your business by yourself, flexibility is key. You need to be able to use your number anywhere, so a good quality mobile app matters. Look for call routing to help you forward calls to your home or mobile number as well if you find yourself without internet service.
Look for services that let you get multiple numbers or use extensions. This can make your business seem bigger and gives everyone on your team their own direct line.
Of course, price matters when you’re a startup. Avoid overpaying: $30 per month should be more than enough.
Small Businesses
Small companies find themselves going through growing pains. VoIP apps can be the perfect solution. Look for automation features that help you scale up your operation without having to hire additional people. At this stage, it’s all about increasing productivity with what you have.
Automation features range from the commonplace auto attendant to more complex artificial-intelligence-based systems that analyze your operations and help you find improvements
Medium-Sized Companies
Once your company has a sizeable workforce, you might need a solution that helps you manage multiple locations or offices. International calling might also become a priority if your business has expanded abroad.
What Are the Best VoIP Apps for Small and Medium-Sized Companies?
So, what VoIP apps should you look into? We love Grasshopper for startups and solopreneurs, while we think that options like Dialpad work very well for small businesses. RingCentral or Nextiva are great options for medium-sized companies. Check out 8×8 Express as well, they’re a great fit for almost any business.
You can read more about these options and much more here at VoIPVirtual. Check out our comparisons and long-form reviews of each service to learn more and find the perfect VoIP app for you.
