On average, screening and transferring a typical inbound call results in around 2 receptionist minutes, including hold time.

That said, there are many factors that may extend this length. Your calls may take more or less time, depending on your call-handling instructions and your callers. For example, calls where we connect a caller to voicemail are typically shorter than those where we fill out a lengthy intake form. If a caller is frustrated, has questions, or is talkative, it can be trickier to guide them to wrap up the call quickly.

If a caller is talkative, we will be personable with them and assist them to the full extent of our ability. We are often complimented on this friendly and personable service, and it is something we feel callers greatly appreciate. However, our receptionists are also encouraged to keep things moving, and we train our receptionists to guide talkative callers in an effort to avoid exceptionally long calls. We do our best to balance efficiency and friendliness.