What do missed calls really cost a small business?

Why missed calls matter more than they seem

When someone calls a local business, they usually need something soon. If they reach voicemail, many don't leave a message. They try the next business on the list. You never find out they called, so the lost job never shows up anywhere.

Work out your own number

You need three rough numbers:

• Missed calls per week. Check your phone's call log for a typical week.
• Average job value. What a typical job or appointment is worth to you.
• How many of those callers would have booked. If you're not sure, assume about half.

Then: missed calls per week × average job value × share who'd book × 52 weeks.

Example: 6 missed calls a week × a $350 average job × 50% × 52 weeks = $54,600 a year in work that went somewhere else. Your numbers will be different, but most owners are surprised by the result. Try the calculator on our home page.

And that's before repeat business

A customer you never got is also every future job and referral from them. For businesses with repeat customers, such as tune-ups, check-ups and seasonal work, the real cost is higher.

Ways to stop losing them

1. 1

   Missed-call text-back

   An instant text to anyone you couldn't answer: "Sorry we missed you, how can we help?" Cheap, simple, and it keeps the conversation alive.

2. 2

   Better hours coverage

   Someone covering the phone at lunch and after hours, whether staff, an answering service, or both.

3. 3

   An AI receptionist

   Answers every call 24/7, answers questions, and books the job, then texts you a summary. Here's how they work.

Want help working out your number and the right fix? Book a 20-minute call. If the numbers don't justify it, I'll tell you.