Voice over Internet Protocol, also commonly referred to as VoIP, is a type of communication also known as IP telephony. VoIP runs voice or multimedia communications over the internet.
With landlines being switched off by 2025 in the UK, VoIP will likely become the favoured choice for both business and personal communication. Offering users flexibility in use and costs, VoIP is also especially useful for startups. Here are 5 key ways that VoIP can help startups in the UK, Europe and elsewhere.
What Are Examples of VoIP?
First, what exactly is VoIP and what are some examples? Well, VoIP has actually been around and used longer by you than you may realise. Every time a call is made via the likes of Facebook, Skype or perhaps even Snapchat – these are all forms of VoIP applications.
Today, startups can take advantage of VoIP on a business level. VoIP can be used for communicating with employees and customers and so, it’s a no brainer really why so many people are now switching to VoIP in Europe.
What Are the Benefits of VoIP for Startups?
From flexibility over location to how inexpensive VoIP is to use for startups – there’re so many reasons why VoIP is both popular and loved by businesses.
Lauren Davies of bOnline comments: “VoIP is ideal for anyone who travels for business or works remotely, no matter where in the world you may be. If you have an internet connection, VoIP can help you stay connected in a way that analogue landlines and even mobile phones simply can’t. Although you may look to enable WiFi calling on your mobile, VoIP will typically be more stable and reliable than traditional and mobile phones.”
Find below some of the major reasons why VoIP is especially beneficial for startups.
Location Flexibility
For startups, both time and money is key. Starting a new business venture also comes with many challenges, such as finding the right employees to grow the company. However, VoIP business phone systems don’t rely on a fixed office location.
So, startups can employ people wherever they like. This might also mean it’s more cost-effective long-term as remote employees will only need a device and an internet connection.
Easy to Install and Use
VoIP is both easy to install and use. All you need to get started is an internet connection and a device, such as a laptop, desktop computer or perhaps even a tablet. The software it runs off of is easy to use and employees won’t need to spend hours trying to grasp it.
Encourages Communication
VoIP truly is the way to go if you need employees and company stakeholders to stay connected. It comes not only with features such as calling, but also instant messaging, video conferencing, automatic voicemails, virtual receptionists and much much more.
For startups that perhaps lack the workforce behind retaining and attracting customers, then VoIP can seriously help. Whether the company in question is working in commodities, legal compliance services, banking, logistics, SaaS or otherwise, connectivity is key.
Cost-Effective
Many startups each year fail due to lack of money. VoIP, however, may help combat any funding issues. We all know that in today’s digital age, communication online is key with customers – which is the premise of VoIP. Therefore, the flexible and scalable contracts VoIP providers offer means startups will benefit from cost-effective contracts.
Little Equipment Required
Leading on from the point above, the great thing about VoIP is that to first install and run it requires little to no new equipment at all. All you need is a reliable internet speed and a device to run the software from. For startups, this could help them pave their business all while cutting costs in telecommunication.