Roofing is a high-demand business where the competition is stiff. If you are a roofing contractor, you are probably aware of how hard it is to acquire customers and maintain a strong reputation in the local market. Missing calls can mean losing customers and valuable leads. Traditionally, most service businesses have a few front desk staff to handle the phone, while most technicians are workers who go to the field. If the team isn’t around, calls either roll to voicemail or are missed. Customers are impatient, which means they don’t take much time to find the next available roofer. This page talks in detail about AI answering services and how they can help your company.
An overview of AI voice agents
AI answering services, or receptionists, are virtual answering services. Unlike call centers that are managed by third parties, these services are powered by artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and machine learning. AI can automatically take calls, understand the intent of the callers, and offer accurate answers.
Misconception: AI answering services are for big roofing companies
Big roofers have the budget and resources to hire more people on the payroll to handle callers, and yet, many choose to use AI answering services to streamline operations. However, small and mid-sized roofing contractors are more likely to benefit from the option. There is no need to scale the team, as AI can work around the clock to take calls.
Misconception: AI cannot handle inquiries related to roofing
Answering services are designed to take care of service businesses, including roofers. Your team can easily update the script and knowledge base as and when needed, and AI will respond to callers accordingly. AI can even distinguish between emergency calls and general requests.
Misconception: AI sounds too robotic
That’s not true. AI models are constantly being trained, and with the help of voice synthesis, AI can offer bespoke answers. In fact, customers may not even know they are not talking to a real human. Also, it is a common myth that callers only want to talk to direct executives. Instead, they want a fast response.
Misconception: AI will replace the existing staff
While this is a concern across industries, AI will not replace your front desk staff. Instead, your team will be more productive as they don’t have to stick to the phone all the time. If a customer wants additional assistance, AI will route the call to a customer care staff or front desk executive. Both ways, callers get the first preference and the help they need. Also, your team can still have complete control over customer relationships.
Misconception: That’s an expensive option
Think of the process of hiring a front desk executive. You must spend on recruitment, hiring, training, salaries, perks, and other benefits. Even with all that, there is the additional responsibility of managing the team. In comparison, AI answering services cost much less. Many providers have budget options for as little as $75.
Misconception: Setup is complicated
Today, AI voice receptionists require simple setup processes, and service providers don’t even take more than 30 minutes to initiate everything. Your business doesn’t have to stop, and you can start connecting to customers and getting roofing contracts almost immediately.
Takeaways
Finally, don’t believe the myth that AI answering services are not secure. Your customer data and privacy will never be compromised, and you can access the data whenever necessary. What needs more attention is how you select the provider. Many add-on features, such as marketing campaign automation, chats, and payment management, are always advantageous. Also, select a service provider who can ensure uptime, 24/7 availability, and offer ongoing support. You should be able to switch between packages as your roofing company grows.