It’s no secret that landlines are on the downswing, having kept us connected for decades, but lacking the features of mobile phones and other modern tools. Despite this fact, many businesses are still dependent on landlines for conference calls and meetings-a fact that is holding many small (and large) businesses back from hosting truly productive meetings, hosting webinars, and more.
So, why should anyone ditch the reliability and familiarity of a landline for the teleconferencing software of today? I’m glad you asked. Let’s look closer at how a teleconferencing service can put a landline to shame and why you should make the switch today.
1. Equipment
One of the most compelling reasons, aside from the cost savings, to say goodbye to your landline is shedding the cumbersome equipment associated with it. Your office probably has those old-school desk phones, telephone lines snaking across the floor, and a variety of other clunky gear lying around. The reality is that landline service is unwieldy and demands an excessive amount of equipment to function. All this equipment can add up over time, becoming an ongoing expense.
On the flip side, when you opt for online conferencing platforms (such as these automated webinar tools), you generally encounter minimal setup costs or equipment expenses, unless you need to purchase a microphone or webcam. Most laptops come equipped with built-in webcams and microphones. Alternatively, you can use your mobile phone to participate in and host meetings, eliminating the need for bulky and outdated equipment.
2. Cost
Let’s talk about cost. Are you paying anywhere over $50 per month for your landline? If so, you’re already paying too much; especially when conferencing services can cost just a few dollars per month and provide twice the features. Why pay for something that limits you to audio-only calling?
With conferencing services, you’ll also be using something that’s web-based, which means you won’t get hit with long-distance or multi-caller fees like you would with a landline. Most conferencing services support dozens of countries, so you can pretty much call anyone.
Not to mention, you’re not limited by the landline’s connection to the wall terminal. You can host or join a call anywhere you have an internet connection. Tired of office meetings? Take your meetings home or to your favorite coffee shop instead. You certainly can’t do that with a landline.
3. Convenience
Convenience is one of the best qualities of a teleconferencing platform. It’s easy to join a call with the click of a button or using a dial-in number. You can essentially take your conferencing software anywhere with a web connection, and many teleconferencing services include a mobile app you can download directly to your device.
Web-based conferencing services also help make communication a bit more accessible for remote team members. Rather than sending an email or incurring long-distance fees, you can meet with your remote team members from anywhere and keep them up to date with company news and assignments. It’s safe to say that without these great tools, more businesses would now be shut down due to COVID-19.
4. More Features
What’s the best reason to switch? You’ll get more features, of course! A landline is pretty limited in what it can provide, but teleconferencing software is loaded with useful tools and extras. Some standards include:
- Screen sharing software
- File sharing
- Cloud conferencing
- HD audio and video
- Calendar integration
- Operator-assisted calling
- Up to 1,000 participants in some cases
- No long-distance fees
Can your landline do all of that? Probably not. If you’re paying money for a monthly service, don’t you want to get the most out of it possible for your payments? With teleconferencing software, you’re getting the maximum value in comparison to a landline. Plus, who doesn’t love a few extra features to help you stay organized and connected?
5. Better Security
Landlines are secure, of course, but a teleconference can actually be moreso. Web encryption is secure, and seeing someone in a video chat can help you verify who you’re talking to. In a world where cybercrime and identity theft are on the rise, you want to be certain that your information (and that of your clients) is well-protected. This means securing calls that could potentially reveal sensitive company information.
With teleconferencing services, you’re getting maximum security, more features, and convenience. We’d like to think that makes them well worth the cost of just a few dollars per month. Most conferencing services don’t cost more than $100 per month, and even if that’s more than your current landline bill, you’re still getting more for your dollar.
Moving Forward
It’s time to move forward with the way we communicate. Technology certainly won’t stop advancing, and modern businesses need to keep up with it if they’re to flourish. Try a teleconferencing service today and learn just how convenient, secure, and affordable they can be.