General Discussions

**James B** · 01-19-2007, 08:39 AM

I am currently trying to set up a web based business. I dont mean to be secretive but it is to do with design work for companies and at the moment due to a full time job 9 - 5 the business will not be able to operate during these hours.

What I mean is I can have emails forwarded to a hotmail account and reply while at work etc but I wont be able to pick the phone up and deal with things that second. I want to explain to people that visit my site or that I approach to try and sell me services to that although the business does not appear to be a full time business it is and they client will have my full support.

What it the best way to explain this to them verbally and to put on my site for people to read?

Thanks

James B

**InfTekHosting** · 01-19-2007, 12:47 PM

Don't tell them at all. Just check your email when you can and set up a message on your business phone for clients to leave a message, then just return calls in the evenings and in the morning before work.

When you tell customers that they are second in importance to something else they tend to be put off. They like to think they are number one, even when they're not, but they don't have to know this.

**katzhooper** · 01-23-2007, 01:02 PM

You could try a secretarial service? I know it is an extra cost but that way when you are not able to they can answer your email as well as your phone for you and they are no where near as expensive as they used to be.

**dansgalaxy** · 01-23-2007, 03:05 PM

to be honest i agree with inftek just answer when you can done tell them and set up a answer message. belive me most webmasters etc only answer email within 48hours...

dan

**vangogh** · 01-23-2007, 10:29 PM

Both are good ideas. You don't have to leave a phone number on your site. It's generally a good idea to have one, but you wouldn't be the only one not to include a phone number.

You can check emails when you can and call people back on your lunch break or after work. before work might be too early for most people.

If you can afford it though hiring an answering service would be a good idea also to allow you to take calls when you're working at the other job.

**dansgalaxy** · 01-24-2007, 03:43 PM

Im not sure about if this is what steven ment by hiring a answer service, but also a good way, which i think is THE best form of contact. is to have someone or multiple people, who are either paid a small amount. or do it for something else i dunno, but anyway people with reasonable knowledge of what you do etc, which simple sit on msn/ or if you can afford it(or just get it free) one of those chat things. so you just have like someone there and if someone needs assistance they can chat to one of your "reps" and pass on any needed info to you when you have finished work, and this way if you need to they can also pas on relevent contact details where you can contact them when you have time.

its quite simple and would be alot cheaper than paying someone to answer a phone, also it means they as customers dont have to pay for a phone bill, which we all like

Please tell me what you think. i'd like to know if it sounds good as it is what i will probally do once i have the money/time to set up a online buisiness...

Dan

**vangogh** · 01-24-2007, 11:35 PM

I was thinking more of the phone answering service, but I think having someone there for live chat could also work. Good idea Dan.

**dansgalaxy** · 01-25-2007, 08:22 AM

If its good, TALKUPATION ME! lol not that you have to of course....

**James B** · 02-02-2007, 05:46 PM

Sorry guys only just visited this again as I have been a bit busy.

Right all great ideas. I have also give you all good talkupation

I think what Im going to attempt to do is ask my mates girlfriend who is currently working from home as they have just had a baby.

I will offer her some money etc so she is motivated, she should also be cheaper than getting this service from a business.

To be honest as my web design is no place near good enough at the moment things are on hold for a bit.

Cheers

James B

**dansgalaxy** · 02-02-2007, 06:36 PM

cool, hope all goes well, also i have pmed you..
dan

**livechatdir** · 04-04-2007, 09:07 AM

This is a good thread though and I think all small businesses must consider an answering service. I came across one for my client called www.successfuloffice.com and they are very processional for a low cost.