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Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering how we manage to do all the things we do?
- What is a "Remote Receptionist"?
- Who answers my calls?
- What if my assistant is on the phone when one of my calls comes in?
- How do you transfer a caller to me?
- How do you forward messages to me?
- How do you know if I'm available to take calls?
- Can you transfer calls to my cell phone or to my home?
- Can you return calls for me?
- Which phone number should I publish in the yellow pages or on my website, for example, so that my clients can reach me?
- Can I still use my business telephone number even though I am diverting it to Smiledog?
- What happens after hours?
- Do you require a long-term commitment?
- How do I get started?
What is a "Remote Receptionist"?
A receptionist working from an off-site location utilizing the most advanced technology available to handle incoming telephone calls in a highly customized fashion.
Who answers my calls?
A bright, articulate and friendly individual fully equipped to handle your calls in practically any manner you'd like.
What if my assistant is on the phone when one of my calls comes in?
Each of our clients is assigned a dedicated receptionist that is part of a small team assigned to your account. If your assistant is busy your calls will be handled by a member of your team. Each team member will have access to all of your information prior to answering the call. Then, based on your instructions, the call will be answered.
How do you transfer a caller to me?
Typical call-handling protocol for our remote receptionists is as follows:
- The call is identified, answered and screened as per your instructions. The client is contacted and asked whether or not he or she wishes to accept the call.
- If you are available the call is transferred immediately.
- If you are unavailable the call is either sent to voicemail or a message is taken and delivered via email.
*Please note: Many other call-handling options are available.
How do you forward messages to me?
When you activate your account with Smiledog, you can choose from several messaging options:
You can opt for voicemail boxes located within our system. When you are unavailable, we transfer callers there. Or, if you already have voicemail at your office or on your mobile phone, we can transfer there. Typically, we send email or text message notifications to inform you whom we have sent to voicemail.
Other options include having messages taken manually then sent to you via email, fax, or text messaging.
How do you know if I'm available to take calls?
As long as you consistently update your status via email or phone, your Smiledog receptionist is able to determine your availability instantly and manage your calls accordingly.
When updating your status, you can issue instructions. For example, you may request specific callers transferred, while others sent to voicemail; to have calls transferred to your cell phone, calls held for an allotted amount of time, or detailed information relayed to your callers.
Can you transfer calls to my cell phone or to my home?
Yes. Smiledog can transfer calls to any phone number you wish whether it's an office line, home line, or cell phone. Many clients give us multiple phone numbers so that we have a variety of ways to reach them.
Can you return calls for me?
Yes. Smiledog can accommodate your request to make an outgoing call. We can make appointment reminder calls or simple return calls. In some instances, a client will email us a list of individuals they need contacted along with vital information that needs to be relayed.
Which phone number should I publish in the yellow pages or on my website, for example, so that my clients can reach me?
You can use your existing number or use a new number we assign you.
When you activate your account with Smiledog, you are given local divert number or you are assigned a toll-free number that you may or may not choose to publish. You can also choose to continue using your current number and simply forward it to your assigned toll-free number.
Can I still use my business telephone number even though I am diverting it to Smiledog?
Yes.
What happens after hours?
After hours all your calls will divert to voicemail where your Smiledog receptionist has recorded a personalized message for you.
Do you require a long-term commitment?
Every client can try our service for a two-week free trial. After your free trial there is a three-month minimum contract and thereafter we require one-month’s notice to close your account.
How do I get started?
Simply call us at 902-576-3555 or fill out our contact form and we will be happy to contact you at the time you request.
