[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]
For many, the 9-5 work day doesn’t look quite the same as it did for generations past. While many of us still face the dreaded commute in and out of the office each day, a growing amount of us are now working in flexible arrangements. Working from home, working in the office part-time, or working from cafes all around the world – the way we work is changing as technology continues to advance, bringing with it many benefits in cost savings and lifestyle changes for employers and employees alike.
However, there are some down sides to face when you’ve got a team working remotely. For many businesses, brainstorming and creative collaboration are crucial in order to achieve maximum output and results. When you’ve got staff members sitting at desks in offices all over the area, and sometimes the world, it takes more intentionality to achieve this same result.
Video call apps let your remote team members connect in a real time, personal setting.CLICK TO TWEET
Video calls offer a solution to some of the challenges that are inherent to having a team that works remotely. They’re also a great alternative to face-to-face customer interaction, particularly for clients who require that extra care and attention as a part of your working relationship.
However, not all video call apps are created equal, and there’s nothing more frustrating than having a scheduled video call come to a screeching halt due to technical difficulties.
Take a look at our picks of the most reliable video call apps – and which ones to steer clear of.CLICK TO TWEET
Zoom
Zoom touts itself as ‘the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars across mobile, desktop, and room systems.’ Big claim, but in our experience, Zoom is reliable, simple and consistent, which is highly important when it comes to video call software. Zoom’s pricing begins with a free service and ranges up to Enterprise level, which gives you the functionality of up to 200 participants in the one call.
Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts gives you the freedom to make free calls to other Hangout users, and also incorporates messaging, SMS and VOIP services. It’s flexible across Android, iOS, and desktop, so you can make and take video calls on the run. This is a great solution for those already using other Google services such as Google Drive or Gmail.
Twilio
Twilio’s highly customisable services and abilities also extend to video calls, with the additional option of recording those calls in HD. Twilio’s flexible API means you can embed video call functionality directly into your own app as well, which is a powerful option when it comes to customer-facing communication.
Slack
If your team is already used to using Slack for instant communication, it’s a no-brainer to continue to use the app for your video call needs. Not only does Slack come with built-in functionality in the form of Slack Calls, but its App Directory also offers further integration options for more extensive video call services.
And the dud… Skype
Skype is still synonymous with voice and video calls for many, but it’s failed to keep up as other apps have advanced. Skype doesn’t offer the ability to integrate with any other apps, and is still unreliable in its base service provision, even after all of those years. On top of that, you’ll still find yourself receiving odd and surprising marketing messages from Skype from random users or bots.
Video calls are a powerful complementary tool alongside an automated workflow that sets your team up for maximum success. To learn more about how automation can serve your business needs, book in your free automation review call today.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]