When you choose to use a VoIP provider for your small business, you're faced with a few difficult choices. There are absolutely dozens of providers of VoIP for business, probably even more than there are for personal use. A simple Google search is overwhelming and can lead to a bad choice, simply because there's too much information out there to digest. So I've chosen a few really important aspects of VoIP for businesses. That way you can ensure you're getting everything you need from your chosen provider.

1. Basic phone features

One of the many advantages to VoIP is the variety of features available as standard. On a normal phone system, you would undoubtedly have to pay extra for caller ID, call waiting, and conference calling, but all of these should be included in your VoIP package. You should also aim for a company that will provide you with phones or additional hardware at no cost to you unless you are truly receiving bargain service and have phones and equipment suitable for your needs.

2. Mobile integration

If you provide your employees with business mobiles, the ability to integrate their mobiles with your new VoIP system may be an essential for you. This will mean your employees can have all of their regular features for a cheaper price wherever they happen to be. And many companies can do just this, saving you vastly more money each time one of your executives makes a phone call. This is particularly important for the company which allows employees to work from home.

3. Office integration

Integration with Microsoft Office may be a valuable asset for your business, as many use Microsoft's suite to organize a variety of important data. You should be able to import all of your contacts and sync up appointments, alerts, and other necessary information. Having all of this information on your phones and having your system work with your computer's programs will truly be the ultimate in convenience for all of your employees.

4. Support

If your small business doesn't have its own IT department, as many don't, having support through your VoIP provider is essential. When you have a problem with your traditional phone, you typically want to call your provider whether it's BT or a smaller company in order to complain or have them sort it out. You should receive the same service from your VoIP provider.

5. Additional Numbers

These important components for a business should also be fulfilled through your VoIP provider. It is ideal for the addition of new extensions to be simple so your business can expand without any difficulty. Vanity numbers will also be a concern if you advertise, as your customers are more likely to remember and call a catchy freephone number.

Finally, the most important aspect of choosing any VoIP provider will be the question of flexibility. Ensure that the provider you've chosen is reliable and will satisfy all of your requirements before committing to a contract.