A Lesson in Frugality - Saving Through Conference Calling

Imagine having to close a 4.5 million-dollar deal without having to travel. In fact, not only is there no need for you to travel, all the transaction would cost you is a measly $200. Sounds too good to be true? It probably would be too good to be true, if not for conference calling.

Conference calls let you wheel and deal anywhere in the world for less than the price of a discounted plane ticket. Here's why movers and shakers have long since made the move to conference calling:

1. Conference calls make information between service provider and client easier. At the same time, the exchange of ideas is sped up. You can get real-time answers to real-time questions.

2. Travel expenses are reduced, if not entirely eliminated. After all, when you can initiate, negotiate, or close deals through conference calls, there is absolutely no need for anyone to hop onto a plane.

3. All conferences are recorded for future reference. This ensures no vital information discussed during the meeting is lost.

4. Conference call pricing is very reasonable. It is so reasonable, in fact, it would barely make a dent in most company's cash outlay. Conference call pricing options include plans that give you flat rates for all calls you place.

5. Conference calls improve communication lines. When everything and everyone is just a call away, there's no reason to delay addressing problems and concerns. This is particularly beneficial to companies that have branches in different countries.

The Price Tag
Conference call pricing frequently features two schemes, namely per minute, per person, or per conference; and flat rate. The type of conference call pricing you should pick depends on the nature of your business' calls. How often do you need to conference? How many people should be part of the conference?

The Per Scheme
Under a per minute, per person, or per call conference call pricing, the cost may be charged to each call you place, each minute you spend talking, or each conference that you call for. Costs vary among providers. Over the last five years, though, prices have dropped substantially, making this type of conference call pricing even more affordable. Expect to pay about $125 for a 6-person 45-minute conference. If your business is the type that seldom requires you to make calls, “pay per use” conference call pricing is best for you.

Flattening Costs with Flat Rates
Unlike “pay per use” conference call pricing, flat rate pricing is highly recommended for volume users. If your company is an international corporation that holds at least five conference calls a day, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out this flat rate conference call pricing is just the pill your business needs. You won't have to pay peak rates or special charges for calls placed during holidays, for example.

Note that depending on the service provider, you may be charged additional fees for services like call recording, translation, and web conferencing.

In today's world, everything comes with a price tag. Conference calls are no different. A prudent choice of conference call pricing can help you cut back on costs. Yes, there is no longer any need to sell your soul to the devil just to get your business up and running, and thriving.