Selecting a mobile phone plan for your business can be overwhelming, especially with the range of options available. Unlike personal plans, business mobile phone plans often come with added features and flexibility tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and companies. Having a dedicated phone plan for your business ensures better service management and separates professional calls from personal ones, maintaining a professional image. But what should you keep in mind when deciding what do you really need and how much to pay for a commercial mobile phone contract? Here’s what to look for when choosing a phone plan for your business.
Data Usage and Coverage
One of the most important factors to consider is data usage. Many businesses rely heavily on mobile data, especially if your employees are often on the go or working remotely. Evaluate how much data you’ll need by considering your business activities – video conferencing, social media management, and mobile apps all require significant data usage. Choose a plan that offers reliable coverage in the areas you operate. Using comparison tools like Which? or Ofcom can give you insights into which provider offers the best coverage in your location.
Shared Plans and Flexibility
Many mobile providers offer shared business plans, where multiple devices can use the same data pool. This can be cost-effective if you have a team. Look for plans that offer flexibility, such as the ability to add or remove lines as your business grows. Vodafone and O2 offer shared plans that allow businesses to adjust data usage based on their current needs.
International Roaming
If your business involves frequent travel, consider a plan that includes affordable international roaming. Some providers, like EE, offer business plans that allow for lower costs when calling or using data abroad. This can save your business significant costs in the long run, particularly if international communication is essential.
Customer Service and Support
Business mobile plans often come with dedicated customer service. Having 24/7 support is crucial in ensuring your business runs smoothly without any communication hiccups. Be sure to choose a provider that offers reliable business customer support.
Other things to keep in mind
One important aspect of business phone plans is the contract length. These contracts can range from 12 to 36 months, with longer contracts often offering better rates. However, businesses need to carefully assess their needs before committing to a long-term contract.
Breaking a mobile phone contract before its end date can lead to hefty penalties, often involving paying off the remaining months in the contract. This is a common risk, especially for startups or rapidly scaling businesses that may need to adjust their phone plans as they grow. Before signing a contract, check the terms and conditions thoroughly, especially for any early termination fees.
