Here's a scenario every tradesperson knows: you're up a ladder, hands full of wiring, and your phone starts ringing. By the time you can safely answer, it's gone to voicemail. The customer? Already calling someone else.
Missed calls cost money. Studies suggest small businesses miss up to 62% of incoming calls. That's not just frustrating – it's lost revenue.
Enter Voice AI
Voice AI is essentially a virtual receptionist powered by artificial intelligence. When you can't answer the phone, it does – with a natural, human-like voice that greets callers, answers basic questions, takes messages, and can even book appointments.
And unlike an actual receptionist, it works 24/7 and costs a fraction of the price.
How It Works
When a call comes in that you don't answer, it's automatically forwarded to your Voice AI assistant. The caller hears something like:
"Hi, thanks for calling [Your Business]. I'm the virtual assistant. How can I help you today?"
From there, it can:
- Answer FAQs about your services, hours, and pricing
- Take a detailed message and text/email it to you instantly
- Book appointments if you've connected your calendar
- Transfer urgent calls directly to your mobile
Does It Sound Robotic?
This is the first question everyone asks – and it's a fair one. We've all been frustrated by those awful automated phone menus.
Modern Voice AI is different. It uses natural language processing to understand what callers are actually saying, and text-to-speech technology that sounds remarkably human. Many callers don't realise they're talking to AI.
Who Is This For?
Voice AI works brilliantly for:
- Tradespeople who can't answer while on jobs
- Solo business owners who wear every hat
- Businesses that get after-hours calls
- Anyone tired of voicemail (let's be honest, nobody leaves voicemails anymore)
What Does It Cost?
Voice AI services typically range from £100-300/month depending on call volume and features. That's significantly less than even a part-time receptionist.
We offer Voice AI setup from £149/month at Zero Stress Websites – including configuration, integration with your existing phone number, and ongoing support.
The Bottom Line
If you're losing business to missed calls – and most small businesses are – Voice AI is worth serious consideration. It's not science fiction anymore; it's a practical tool that pays for itself in captured leads.
Talk to us about Voice AI for your business.