Compare
AfterTone vs hiring a receptionist
A receptionist is wonderful when you can afford one and the phone rings during their hours. For most small businesses neither is true. AfterTone answers the calls your team cannot, for less than an hour of wages a week.
| Hiring a receptionist | AfterTone | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | Thousands, plus super and leave | $49 or $79 |
| Hours covered | Their roster | Every hour, including nights and public holidays |
| Sick days and holidays | The phone goes unanswered | Never |
| Consistency | Depends on the day | Asks the same questions every call |
| Judgement and warmth | A good receptionist wins here | Polite and clear, but it is not a person |
| Works alongside staff | n/a | Yes. Your phone rings first; the assistant only takes what is missed |
When hiring a receptionist is the better choice
If you have walk-in customers, complex bookings or a busy front desk, hire the receptionist. Then put AfterTone behind them for lunch breaks, after hours and the days they are away.
Questions people ask
Can my receptionist and AfterTone both use the same number?
Yes. Forward on no answer means the desk phone rings first and the assistant only picks up what nobody answers.