Long Distance | Buyer's Guide
Buying Tips
Understand Your Calling Patterns
Before you start comparing programs, you need to understand your company's calling profile. The
best way to do so is to examine a recent phone bill. Break out where the calls went, when they
were made, and how long they lasted. Use this analysis and information about your total call
volume to direct your comparison of programs, focusing on rates that apply to the majority of
your calls.
Remember to Negotiate
Once you have determined the best program for your company, it is time to make a deal. Depending on the size of your account, you will have varying leverage to negotiate below the published rates. Often, it is simplest to agree upon specific discounts, such as calls to a branch office or within your state. Any adjustments you agree upon should be made in writing to avoid annoying fights down the road.
Avoid Signing up for Long-term Contracts
Carriers often offer lower rates to entice customers to sign up for a multiple-year contract.
While signing up for long terms of service can also help you obtain low rates, we recommend
that you avoid plans that lock you in for more than 12 months. Because the industry is changing
rapidly, you will want to keep your options open to take advantage of lower rates in the future.
Watch out for Monthly Minimums
Make sure to build in a cushion when signing up for service that requires a monthly call minimum.
If you fail to meet this minimum, most programs will simply bill your company the difference.
To be safe, your calling volume should be at least 15% above a given threshold.
Review Your Long Distance Service
Like spring cleaning, it can be useful to take stock of your telecommunications holdings on a
yearly basis. Instead of giving long distance sales reps the cold shoulder, ask them to fax
you the program specifics, and file the information. Programs can be reviewed all at once at
a later time.
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