Regardless to what technology dictates, we would be at a loss if we could not talk to a live voice connected to our doctor's office if there is an eminent need for him. No one wants to go through a long line of electronic babble. Setting up an answering service is not that hard.........
There are ways to find out how these services should be set up and charged, up to calling a company and finding out if they're nice enough to give you starting prices and tips. The library and Internet are filled with how-tos on the subject as well.....
There are so many professionals besides doctors who may need their days extended far beyond the generic 9-5 hours. Seek them out and find out if they would like to have a live person who could handle calls. Pile up on good stock paper and create a data base of names and send gracious, professional letters to your targeted clients......
Your land line service would be more than happy to discuss how many lines they can provide for you. I was surprised that they were very helpful and very well versed on in-home answering services......
You have to avail yourself to this answering service. Just as they have peak times, off times and all that lies in between, offer the service you know you can work with, within their time frames. Also, discuss yours as well......
Your state can and will offer you suggestions on how to run this business and what tax forms to use depending on your type of business. There are short courses to get well versed. You can be a sole proprietor, have limited partnership, or an equal partnership, depending on your needs, etc. However, if you decide to hire outside help you will need an identification for these individuals and the business will not be able to work within the home. With employees you must be in a business district. Inquire to your own township if you need further information. The key word is legitimacy.
I once had all the works and structure to create my own service but I still worked my job. I did just about all of the things required as outlined above. Also, it was the very beginning of the pagers and cell phones and it didn't seem too practical, I was told by a business person. Wish I had went forth with it anyway. People still want voices. Peace!
Interesting side line for work. I'd never have thought of this. But, with 6 dogs, it probably wouldn't work over here anyway.
This sounds like a great start up business with all the leg work that you did in this list to help those wanting to pursue a telephone answering service at home. You are correct, there is never a time when a live voice is not needed somewhere. I like talking to people and not a voice activated thing.
select one here...