38 - Making the Jump to Virtual Business

Welcome back to the Scale Your Small Business Podcast with your host, Jillian Flodstrom. Today’s topic is an important one--transitioning your in-person business to be fully or partially virtual and online. This can be a daunting task, but we’re going to run through some actionable tips that will help smooth out the process and result in more business and less stress for you and your operation.    First, consider getting a business phone number. Having an online VoIP allows you to keep your work and professional lives separate, have someone on your team handle calls when you aren’t available, and makes it easy to manage relationships. By having a separate number, you’re able to establish a number that you can whole-heartedly say is always available for your client’s use without guilt. You can even answer that number on the same phone through an online app!   Second, focus on text and email. These forms of communication are often quicker, clearer, and easier for your clients. Sometimes, folks don’t need an entire phone call--they may just need a fast answer between meetings. Texts and emails should move up on your priority list, as it’s an effective way to manage client relationships. By going one step further and getting an automatic texting platform, you can also let them know automatically if there may be a delay in your response. These platforms also allow you to see the text or email in many different forms.    Third, think about online scheduling. While it can seem scary at first, online scheduling allows clients to schedule, move, and cancel appointments themselves, saving you a ton of time. It will send you an email and automatically update your calendar so you can use your valuable time working on something other than dozens of short phone calls.    Key Takeaways:    Consider getting a business phone number. Having an online VoIP allows you to keep your work and professional lives separate, have someone on your team handle calls when you aren’t available, and makes it easy to manage relationships.   Focus on text and email. These forms of communication are often quicker, clearer, and easier for your clients. Sometimes, folks don’t need an entire phone call--they may just need a fast answer between meetings. Texts and emails should move up on your priority list, as it’s an effective way to manage client relationships.   Think about online scheduling. While it can seem scary at first, online scheduling allows clients to schedule, move, and cancel appointments themselves, saving you a ton of time.