“Voice over Internet Protocol, also called VoIP, IP Telephony, Internet telephony, Broadband telephony, Broadband Phone and Voice over Broadband is the routing of voice conversations over the Internet or through any other IP-based network.

Protocols used to carry voice signals over the IP network are commonly referred to as Voice over IP or VoIP protocols. They may be viewed as commercial realizations of the experimental Network Voice Protocol (1973) invented for the ARPANET. Voice over IP traffic can be deployed on any IP network, including those lacking a connection to the rest of the Internet, for instance on a local area network.” (Wikipedia)

Why VoIP?

In general, transmitting voice data (phone services) is a costly process for professionals. Companies (and individuals) which rely on phone conversations with customers, suppliers and staff end up paying high costs for the line and services. VoIP brings a solution: it uses the internet as a data transmission platform – vastly decreasing the cost of calls and phone communication. Nowadays VoIP service providers offer a wide range of services, and some of the advantages include:

  • FREE calls from PC to PC from anywhere in the World.
  • Low cost calls from PC to other networks (regular phones, mobile phones, etc).
  • The ability to record voice messages, re-route calls to a VoIP phone and easier line access.
  • Mobility allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere in the world.

Decreasing Costs, Improving Communication

Many life coaches make constant use of phone services to network with other professionals, contact prospective clients and even conduct coaching sessions. For those who spend considerable time in an office or in front of a computer, using VoIP programs such as Skype can become a very effective way to conduct business. How? With simple but great benefits such as:

  • The ability to communicate with clients from anywhere in the world in individual or group sessions (yes, VoIP softwares allow for tele-conferences and even video-conferences).
  • You can receive messages, re-route calls, set-up voice message banks, and much more.
  • Very low costs comparing to normal PSTN services. FREE calls when using direct connection (both sides are connected through a VoIP program).

How to Start Using it

It is extremely easy to start using VoIP technology – in fact, most people reading this article will already have the necessary apparatus to start today. What are these? Simply a PC, headphones (with a microphone), a VoIP enabled software (we recommend Skype) and a reasonably fast internet connection (ADSL, Broadband, or other).

Once you have ensured the your connection is appropriate, your computer can host the program, and the program is running… you’re ready to decrease your call costs CONSIDERABLY, whilst enabling yourself to improve the level of communication with clients, prospective clients and business associates. Also, you’ll be able to conduct coaching sessions or brainstorm with other professionals using teleconferencing tools. It’s simply up to you.

To download Skype – click Here.
To find more information about VoIP, visit the Wikipedia page.