It seems like almost everyone is doing everything on their phones these days – and if you’re not already getting the most out of these useful tools, why not? Optimising your phone for work can save you time, money and hassle and make you a true mobile professional. Assessing the needs of your business and the way in which workers communicate with each other and customers is the first step.

Get a phone bill audit

Several companies will do an assessment of your phone service – both landlines and mobile – to see if you’ve picked the right plan for your business needs. Maybe you’re paying for a bigger phone plan than you need or using your line at peak times when the costs are highest. Regardless of the results, you can find out if you should upgrade or downgrade to make the most of your phone plan.

The Dynamic Business website advises researching flag falls or fees to connect per call when looking at telephone contracts. If your calls are usually quite short, a flag fall can result in unnecessary costs.

Let the clouds roll in

Increasingly, companies are offering cloud-based alternatives to the PABX, or phone switch, system. These options provide contract-free calls through the internet and a steady monthly rate, which helps with budgeting. You can add phones to the network and access voicemail via phone or computer. Some of these systems are designed specifically for smaller businesses.

Check your router

If you want to use an online phone service like VoiP, you will need the right router. VoIP requires Quality of Service to choose which internet traffic to focus on, as the technology relies on a clear connection without interference to make a call. If you go with a cheap router, your connection will always be shoddy because it will continually be affected by network traffic.

Sync your services

Consider linking your mobile phone to the office phone and computer system so you can readily access any information you need while on the go. Integrating phone and computer systems will also help in quickly accessing customer or supplier details when a person calls.

Tailor your mobile plan

Consider several areas when deciding on a mobile phone plan for your company. Will workers need to call outside the local area? Will they be texting a lot? What about internet access? An article on the Improve My Business website operated by Telstra recommends picking a family plan if you run a small business and a fleet plan for a larger one.

Plan on your smartphone

A smartphone is great for accessing the web when you need to and getting emails on the road, but you should also fully utilise applications and planning functions for your business. You can access and share your Outlook calendar to plan appointments or reschedule meetings while immediately letting employees know. Use online planners and sync your phone with all your contacts so everyone knows what tasks need to be completed when. Also make sure to download some relevant apps to help with your business tasks and dealings, such as the Project Management App or Receipt Catcher.

How do you make the most of your phone for your business?