Remote work was already on the rise before COVID-19. But the pandemic put the trend in overdrive. During the closures and shutdowns of 2020, both employees and employers saw the benefits of a remote work environment.

When the government relaxed restrictions, many businesses adopted a hybrid work model to accommodate their employees and meet business objectives. However, the COVID-19 shutdown period exposed some weaknesses in conducting business remotely, particularly in communications.

Many businesses have chosen Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems to handle the voice communication demands of a hybrid work environment. This article highlights the advantages VolP can provide for your business operations, and how it can help support a productive remote or hybrid work environment.

What is VoIP?

Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a comprehensive commercial phone system that routes your voice calls through internet protocol networks instead of a landline. With this system, you can access your business phone from anywhere with an internet connection. This feature is a significant asset for working in a hybrid work setting.

In addition, VoIP allows you to use all your devices to make and receive calls in the same way as a desk phone. These devices include:

  • Laptops
  • Mobile phones
  • Video phones
  • Desktop computers
  • Tablets

Since remote workers can use their work numbers through all devices and locations, they don’t have to use their personal numbers to engage in business communications.

7 VoIP Advantages for a Hybrid Work Environment

Regardless of your industry, streamlining operations is tantamount to success. VolP can enhance the communication aspect of your business’s operation. Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of VoIP.

1. Softphones

Mobile phone usage has become a major component of day-to-day business communication, especially in decentralized business environments. However, using conventional mobile phones for business purposes comes with some major disadvantages. For instance, they don’t have advanced call logging or call transfers.

With softphone apps, VoIP systems provide a variety of features that you can use on your phone, laptop, and desktop. Softphones are software solutions that resemble and perform like a desk phone on your computer screen. It includes a dial pad and other call managing features, such as Hold, Mute, and Transfer. Mobile softphone apps are available for Android and iOS devices.

2. Flexibility, Versatility, and Accessibility

In the time before VoIP, waiting for an important call on your office phone could keep you tethered to your work chair for hours. Today, Cloud Services enable you to use your internet-connected VoIP system from your office, home, or on the road with your cell phone. The system gives you the freedom to go about your day without missing out on important calls. In addition, you can conduct business at any place and anytime.

3. Integrates Addition Call features and Beyond

Your remote workers can enjoy the same business telecommunication functions as the traditional landline system. VolP accommodates:

  • Caller ID
  • Conference calls
  • Extension dialing and automatic call routing
  • Voicemail
  • Call center function

Within a managed network structure, your VoIP system can integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) software and other system software. Also, VolP systems can connect to Cloud Services available on the internet. Third-party hosts like Amazon Web Services can help you keep your application secure, accessible over the internet, and free of software licensing costs.

4. Cell Phone Integration

Installing a mobile app on your cell phone allows you to access your VoIP system and use the full selection of features without revealing your private cell phone number.

5. Scalability

Many VolP systems with low-voltage cabling allow you to expand or reduce lines quickly. This capability makes it easier to handle high seasonal demands and quickly disconnect ex-employees. Also, opening new offices is much faster and more cost-effective than the traditional landline system. Plus, the low-voltage cable is better than Wi-Fi because:

  • Low voltage cable is faster and equipped with more bandwidth
  • It is more secure
  • It doesn’t have blind spots or weak signal problems
  • It requires less energy
  • It’s simple to use with no Wi-Fi passwords

6. Centralized Call Management

Since VoIP systems are very manageable, one receptionist can oversee calls for several office locations.

7. Smooth Installation, Set-up, and Maintenance

There is little effort in installing and maintaining VoIP phones. And even your tech-challenged employees shouldn’t have trouble with these plug-and-play-like devices. In addition, adding new workers to the system is simple and direct.

Going Forward with VoIP

Advances in technology and the aftermath of COVID-19 have changed how we live and work. Fortunately, VoIP systems can make voice communications within a hybrid work environment a seamless and empowering tool for moving your business forward. All it takes is hiring a full-service information technology company like Phoenix IT to ensure your VoIP system remains optimized over all platforms and devices. To learn more about VoIP and our managed IT service, visit Phoenix IT.com.