The Perfect Small Business Phone System

Published on September 18, 2024 | Last Updated on December 11, 2024

A reliable and efficient telephone system is crucial for small businesses in the UK. A phone is more than just making and receiving calls–it’s the lifeline of your connection with customers, partners, and team members.

Whether you own a start-up looking for your first office phone system or an established business seeking an upgrade, here you will learn how to make an informed decision regarding a small business phone system.

Why Does Your Business Need a Phone System?

Our dedicated office phone system creates a professional image for your small business.

Functions like call forwarding, call routing, and mobile apps allow you and your team to stay connected and responsive, even on the go. 

Moreover, phone systems with call queues and recording functions can help you provide top-notch customer service.

Small Business Phone Systems

The UK market offers a variety of phone systems designed specifically for small companies.

Here’s a quick overview of the different types of virtual numbers. 

VoIP Systems: These small business systems leverage the Internet Protocol (IP) to transmit voice messages, effectively replacing traditional lines.

 This offers significant advantages such as:

• Cost Savings: Companies can often dramatically reduce large, expensive monthly bills.
• Flexibility: VoIP business systems can be easily scaled up or down as needed, accommodating changing business needs. Users can also call from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.
• Advanced Functions: VoIP systems often include virtual numbers for local or national presence and call recording for quality control and training.

Cloud Systems: These systems take VoIP to the next level by hosting the entire communication infrastructure in the cloud.

This means companies don’t need to invest in expensive on-site hardware, making them a popular choice for companies of all sizes.

• Easy Setup and Management: Cloud business phone systems are quick to set up and easily manage via an online interface. There’s no need for specialised IT staff.
• Accessibility: With an internet connection, users can access their virtual system from anywhere. This way, companies can manage remote teams that work on different products or services in multiple locations.
• Scalability: Cloud systems can easily be scaled up or down to accommodate changing business needs. Companies only pay for the services and extensions they need. You can select one, two, or more numbers based on your requirements. 
• Variety: Cloud systems typically offer a wide range of services, including voicemail-to-email transcription, auto attendants, call queues, conference calling, and mobile app integration.

Multi-Line Systems: These systems support multiple lines and extensions, making them ideal for growing companies or those with various departments or employees.

• Efficiency: Multi-line systems allow companies to handle multiple connections simultaneously, preventing callers from getting busy signals or being put on hold for extended periods.
• Organisation: With multiple extensions, companies can route calls directly to the appropriate person or department, improving customer service and internal communication.
• Professionalism: A multi-line system can enhance a business’s professional image by ensuring that calls are handled efficiently and professionally.

The choice of a virtual system depends on the specific needs of a business.

VoIP and cloud systems are excellent options for companies seeking cost savings, flexibility, and advanced services.

Multi-line systems are ideal for companies with many customers or multiple employees or departments.

Choosing the best virtual system for your small business in the UK depends on your specific needs and budget.

When deciding, consider factors like the number of users, required services, and scalability.

How to Set Up a Phone System for a Small Business?

Setting up a small business phone system with Air Landline is easy!

Here’s how to get started today!

1. Select an Area Code: Select your chosen area code. We have 100% coverage across the UK.
2. Email address and Mobile Number: Confirm your email address and enter the mobile number to which you’d like to divert your business calls to.
3. That’s it! In a few minutes, you’ll receive an email with your brand new, area code-specific business number, ready to start receiving calls!

Do I Need a Landline to Install a Small Business VoIP System?

You don’t need a traditional landline to install a small business VoIP system. VoIP systems use your existing internet connection.

This eliminates the need for a separate landline and can result in significant cost savings.

Start Your Free Trial of Air Landline

Are you ready to experience the benefits of a modern communication system for your small business? 

Air Landline offers a 7-day free trial so you can test out their systems and services before committing.

Take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade your business connection today!

Air Landline vs. Alternatives

When choosing a small business virtual phone service in the UK, you’ll likely encounter various providers.

Check below to see how Air Landline stacks up against other providers!

Let’s take a look at a comparison table:

Over 500 5* Customer Reviews

Don’t just take our word for it – Air Landline boasts over 500 5-star customer reviews on Trustpilot.

Here’s a glimpse of what customers are saying:

Jim Richardson
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Fantastic company, great product. I love it.
So many free things that are there for the taking. I love call recording and all the other options. Great value and a pleasure to do business with.
Don’t hesitate just get it.

P-G Odd Jobs Ltd
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Best voip service Iv found yet.
Air Landline has been a life safer, helps me give my clients the options of calling a mobile or landline, easy to setup and reasonably priced. I do wish there was an app to change settings on but that’s my only gripe with air landline, Iv used a couple of other voip companies before and they have either let me down or hiked there prices up, as I said so far Iv had no issues with air landline and will continue to use them until I do have an issue with them. Highly recommended, thankyou ☺️

Paul
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
DO NOT HESITATE TO SIGN UP
I’ve recently joined Air Landline and although a little sceptical, cannot fault the service we have received. From onboarding through to daily use, it has been a seamless transition which we hoped for running our small B & B in Canterbury (Harriet House). Do not hesitate to use this company (and don’t bother with the weeks free trial as it really is not necessary)

Cameron
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
4 Sept 2024
Fantastic service. I have only been using them for about 3 months but I’ve never had an issue and the easy to access online interface makes managing my new work number a breeze. They should actually do more promoting this!

Lisa B
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
More than just funny adverts!
As our small business has grown, we were looking for a phone solution which would mean our business number was not also my husband’s personal mobile number – a classic small business problem! When we started looking, we started getting lots of different companies’ adverts appearing on my social media feeds. Of course, Airlandline has BRILLIANT adverts, but I still took my time to research the various options as I wanted to be assured that Airlandline had more than just a great marketing campaign – it had to be right for our business. We signed up for a free trial, and I have to say, Airlandline has not disappointed. It does everything our small business needs it to do: we can see which calls are business and which are personal, divert calls to other members of our team, set up custom call routes, opening hours, greetings and voicemail, and our number can be used with Business WhatsApp. Airlandline was the only company we found that could do everything we wanted, and the fact it was the cheapest option too was perfect!

Air Landline Small Business System Features

Air Landline offers a wide range of features designed to enhance communication and professionalism for big and small companies. 

Here’s a breakdown of some key features:

Call Forwarding for big and small companies

Take advantage of every vital call, even when you’re away from your desk.

Air Landline’s call forwarding lets you seamlessly route calls to your mobile number or other designated numbers, ensuring you stay connected wherever you are.

Auto Attendant for big and small companies

Create a polished first impression with a professional auto attendant. This lets you greet callers with a customised message and directs them to the correct department or extension. The result is enhanced efficiency and a positive customer experience.

Small Business Virtual phone service with Call Reporting and Answering System

Ensure every call is answered, even when you’re unavailable. Air Landline’s answering system lets you record a personalised greeting and store voicemail messages for later retrieval.

Multiple Mobile Diverts:

We allow our customers to divert calls to their chosen mobile number(s).

Local and National Phone Numbers:

Establish a local presence with a dedicated geographic number, or choose a national number for broader reach.

Business Call Heads Up:

You’ll see it’s a business call (and which number your client has dialled) before you answer.

So you’ll know exactly which cheesy business phone voice to prepare.

Welcome Message:

Greet callers with a professional welcome message, setting the tone for a positive interaction.

Call Recording:

Record essential calls for training, compliance, or reference purposes. 

Call Reporting:

Receive call reports, including who called, the time of the call, the duration of the call, if a voicemail was left, and more!

Out-of-Hours Voicemail:

Set up a dedicated voicemail, ensuring customers can always leave a message when employees are not working.

Voicemail Transcription:

Receive email transcriptions of voicemail messages, saving you time and effort.

Custom Greetings:

Personalise your greetings for different times of day or holidays.

Holiday Voicemail:

Inform callers of your holiday schedule with a particular message.

And Much More!

Sign up for a FREE 7-day trial to get access to all of our advanced features!

Is it Worth Getting a Virtual Phone Service for Your Business?

Absolutely! For small and big companies, Air Landline offers a multitude of benefits:

• Professionalism: A professional virtual phone service helps you project a credible and established image, building trust with customers and partners.
• Productivity: Streamline and improve collaboration within your team, allowing everyone to stay connected and focused on their tasks.
• Customer Satisfaction: Never miss a call from a potential customer and ensure they receive prompt and efficient service.
• Flexibility: Call forwarding and mobile apps allow you to stay connected and responsive from anywhere.
• Scalability: As your business grows, your virtual phone service can quickly scale to accommodate your changing needs.

How Much Does a Virtual Phone Service Cost with Air Landline?

Air Landline offers affordable pricing plans tailored for big and small companies.

Our plans start from £9.99 + VAT per month, providing excellent value for your benefits.

There are no hidden fees, we provide a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can cancel at any time.

Is a VoIP Business Telephone System Cheaper than a traditional Landline?

Yes, Air Landline’s VoIP business telephone numbers are considerably cheaper than those of traditional landlines.

Can I Replace My Landline with VoIP?

Yes, you can replace your landline with a VoIP system. VoIP systems provide a traditional landline’s functionality, plus additional benefits, often at a lower cost.

How to Choose the Right Small Business Phone System

Choosing the perfect system for your small business requires careful consideration.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Business Size and Needs: Consider the number of users, call volume, and specific business requirements.
• Budget: Determine your budget and compare pricing plans from different providers.
• Scalability: Choose a system that can grow with your business and accommodate future expansion.
• Ease of Use: Consider a user-friendly office system that is easy to set up and manage.
• Customer Support: Ensure the office system provider offers reliable customer support if you encounter any issues.

Advantages of VoIP Business Telephone Systems

VoIP business telephone systems offer numerous advantages over traditional landlines:

• Cost Savings: Considerably lower monthly fees.
• Scalability: Businesses can scale their business operations based on growth needs. 
• Advanced Features: Benefit advanced functions like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and call recording.

Sectors We Serve

Air Landline’s versatile system caters to a wide variety of sectors, including:

• Call Centres
• Schools
• Healthcare
• Dental Practises
• Estate Agents
• Solicitors
• Construction Businesses
• Government Agencies
• Restaurants
• Accountants
• Churches
• Museums
• Automotive Businesses
• Retail
• Franchises
• Non-Profits
• Pharmacies
• Start-ups
• Marketing Agencies
• Vets
• Care Homes
• Hotels
• Recruitment Agencies
• and many more!

FAQ

The Takeaway – Small Business Phone Systems

Investing in the right phone system is an investment in your company’s success.

It empowers you to communicate effectively, enhance productivity, and provide exceptional customer service. 

With Air Landline’s range of features and affordable pricing, you can elevate your business connection without breaking the bank.

Ready to take your business communication to the next level?

Start your free trial with Air Landline today!