With job growth at a standstill in many major sectors of the economy like construction, home building, manufacturing and mortgage lending, many people of all ages are switching career paths, or at least contemplating doing so. Some are looking to re-invent themselves and their skills by finishing their bachelor’s, earning a masters, or maybe getting a degree or certificate from an accredited college in a specialized field such as search engine optimization, web design, or a medical science. Colleges, universities and trade schools are getting the extra phone coverage they need by adding an education answering service. As a result, they’re helping to increase enrollment in these colleges and trade schools. How, you ask?

Well, when an education related business such as a college, university or trade school does a direct mail, print or TV campaign, or when they’re hosting an open house, lecture or exhibit, a lot of calls need to be answered. Telephone calls overflow during regular office hours, after hours, late at night, on weekends, and even sometimes during holidays. With an education answering service you get phone coverage whenever you need it; on a part-time or full-time basis. Using an education answering service is cost effective and costs less than adding on staff. There are no payroll taxes and benefits to be paid; you pay just for the professional service they provide. A live operator of an education answering service is well-trained and ready to help callers promptly and professionally. They can handle a variety of tasks: operators give out accurate information, schedule appointments for the admissions department, take and place important messages for other staff members or departments, and more.

Helping callers when they need help is as important in an educational environment as it is in any business. With an education answering service, your outside operators almost become part of your staff. The big difference between on-site operators and your education answering service is the time and cost savings. They work when you usually don’t. And with an education answering service there’s the constant live, voice response interaction with your callers. As good as an e-mail is, it can’t say hello, and how may I help you in a friendly tone.