A missed call from a new customer is usually a lost job, because most people call the next company on the list within minutes. To work out your own cost, multiply the calls you miss each week by your close rate and your average job value. The fix is to answer faster, not to buy more leads.
1. A simple way to work out your cost
Missed calls per week x close rate x average job value x 52 = what missed calls cost you in a year. Use your own numbers. We don't quote industry statistics here.
2. Where calls get missed
On jobs, after hours, on weekends, and when two calls come in at once.
3. Three fixes, cheapest first
A missed-call text-back that sends a booking link; forwarding calls to an answering service; an AI receptionist that answers, takes details and books.
4. What to track
Calls received, calls answered, and jobs booked.
Common questions
How fast should I call a lead back?
As fast as you can. Minutes matter, and the first company to respond usually gets the job.
Is a text-back enough?
It is a good first step because it keeps the customer from calling someone else, but a person or an AI receptionist still needs to follow up.
Can AI answer my phone?
Yes. An AI receptionist can answer calls any time of day, take details and book jobs, and hand anything urgent or complex to you.
What if a caller wants a person?
Set it up so the caller can always reach you for urgent or complex requests.