New software can be very costly and time consuming to deploy, so it’s essential that all of your staff are using it to its fullest potential.
Here are a handful of hints and tips to ensure your team are getting the most out of your software.
By the way… these tricks won’t just work for nSolve’s answering service software, nCall, but any other programs you may be using!
1. Professional training
Most software packages come with a help-guide or manual; they’re usually very long and filled with jargon. There is a time and place for these types of exhaustive materials, but the best method to learn a new product is through proper professional training.
Don’t assume you can teach yourself! Most software suppliers provide formal training services.
It’s also important that your staff are well trained, and are exited about the changes. Your team will be better equipped if you can impart on them the knowledge and enthusiasm gained during your training.
2. Practise, practise, practise (then write it down!)
Do you ever receive the same question, from the same people, on how to do something remarkably simple, time and time again?
If you have part-timers, or fluid team members that handle many different jobs, then you’ll probably know the pain of having to explain something more than once.
This can be resolved by encouraging regular practise, so that in an emergency, anyone can take the call.
If someone continues to ask the same question, give them help one last time then ask them to write down the process and keep it somewhere handy.
Instructions written and distributed by your own team will always be more relevant to your business than those provided by the supplier.
3. Apply new features
Most software is continuously updated. Sometimes new updates come with new features, and it’s important to take the time to learn about them and roll out any changes in process to the whole team.
A small feature could result in increased efficiency (and profit!), but you need to put in the work to find out!
Be sure to add yourself to any relevant mailing lists to ensure you’re the first to hear of updates.
4. Encourage tech-savvy staff
You may find that one or two of your team are particularly good with computers and new software; always finding new tricks and workarounds to make their days easier.
It’s your responsibility to give them a platform to share their best-practice.
Allow these team members to regularly address the office and give quick tutorials, so that everyone can benefit. You’ll also be providing them additional skills and a boost in confidence!
5. Engage in user forums
You can find somewhere to discuss literally anything on the net; for better or worse! Make sure you’re engaged with other users of your chosen software to discuss best-practice.
You will often find that other experienced users are more than happy to help you with a problem, or provide you a solution not found in the support guides.
If you are the experienced one, then be sure to be kind and welcoming to the newbies! It’s not always easy to join new online communities.
I hope you’ve found this post useful, and that you’re now motivated to go learn something new about a program you’ve used for years!
If you’d like to speak with us further about getting more out of nCall with our Advanced Training Program, or are thinking about using nCall in the future, please do get in touch!
