Setting the Right Call Timeout for Your Business Phone

Managing incoming calls effectively is crucial for any small business. One key setting that often gets overlooked is the call timeout — the length of time your phone rings before the call is sent to voicemail. Setting this timeout properly can make a big difference in how your calls are handled and how you track them.

📌 Why This Matters

Most phone carriers have a voicemail timer of about 20 to 30 seconds. If your call timeout is set too high (longer than 20 seconds), your calls might bypass your business voicemail and go directly to your personal carrier voicemail. This means you might miss important messages and your call records can show inaccurate information, marking calls as ‘Completed’ instead of ‘Voicemail.’

On the other hand, if the timeout is set too low (under 15 seconds), calls might not ring long enough for you or your customers to answer, sometimes ending too quickly or not connecting at all.

✨ What’s New

• Smart Timeout Alerts: You’ll now see helpful messages if your call timeout settings fall outside the ideal range, guiding you to pick a better duration.
• Improved Call Status: Correct timeout settings help your system correctly classify calls, so voicemails are recorded properly and your call reports are more reliable.

🛠️ How to Use It

1. Step 1: Check your current incoming call timeout setting in your phone system or CRM settings.
2. Step 2: Adjust the timeout to be between 15 and 20 seconds. This range helps ensure calls have enough time to be answered or directed to your business voicemail.
3. Step 3: Save your settings and test by calling your business number to see how the call rings and where the voicemail goes.
4. Step 4: If you see any warning messages about your timeout setting, consider following the guidance to avoid issues with missed calls or inaccurate call status.

💡 Pro Tip

Setting your call timeout correctly helps you never miss a customer call and ensures your voicemail messages and call reports accurately reflect your business interactions.