Call Forwarding
Call forwarding is a phone feature that automatically redirects incoming calls from your business number to a different phone, landline, or an automated service. It ensures callers reach help even when you are busy, away from your desk, or off the clock.
Why Call Forwarding Matters to Your Small Business
For a small business owner, an unanswered call is often a lost customer. Most clients won't leave a voicemail if they have an urgent problem; they will simply hang up and call the next business on their list. Call forwarding ensures that every lead is captured by routing the caller to someone—or something—that can help them immediately.
It also provides a vital layer of professional flexibility. Whether you are a plumber under a sink or a salon owner in the middle of a haircut, you can't always stop to answer the phone. Forwarding allows your business to stay 'open' even when your hands are full, protecting your reputation for being responsive.
Finally, it helps maintain a healthy work-life balance. By forwarding your business line to an AI service or an employee after hours, you can enjoy your personal time without the stress of missing an emergency job or a high-value booking.
How SkipCalls Uses Call Forwarding
SkipCalls works by using your existing phone provider's call forwarding settings. You don't need to change your business number; you simply tell your carrier to send calls to your dedicated SkipCalls AI number when you can't answer. Our AI receptionist then takes over, greets the caller in your voice, and handles the rest.
Related SkipCalls Features:
- •AI Receptionist
- •Spam Call Filtering
- •Automatic Appointment Booking
- •Voice Cloning
How to Activate Forwarding
Activation usually involves 'Star Codes.' For most major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, dialing *72 followed by the forwarding number will redirect all calls. Dialing *73 typically cancels the service. SkipCalls provides a step-by-step guide for every major carrier during setup.
Real-World Examples
The Plumber on a Job
An electrician is wiring a new home and can't answer his cell phone. He sets his phone to 'Conditional Call Forwarding,' so if he doesn't pick up within three rings, the call is automatically sent to SkipCalls to book the appointment for him.
The Salon After Hours
A salon owner wants to stop taking work calls at 7:00 PM. She sets her shop phone to 'Unconditional Call Forwarding' in the evening, so every night-time caller can still book a hair appointment via the AI instead of getting a busy signal.
The Solo Real Estate Agent
While showing a house, an agent receives a call from a new lead. Rather than interrupting the tour, the call forwards to the AI, which answers questions about the listing and texts the agent a summary immediately after.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does call forwarding replace my current phone number?
No. You keep your existing business number. Forwarding just acts as a bridge that sends the call to another destination (like SkipCalls) when you aren't available to answer it yourself.
Can I turn call forwarding on and off easily?
Yes. Most carriers allow you to toggle it on or off by dialing a simple code on your keypad (like *72 or *73) or by changing a setting in your smartphone's menu.
Will my customers know their call is being forwarded?
Generally, no. The transition is seamless. From the caller's perspective, the phone just rings until it is answered by the designated forwarding destination.
Is there a difference between 'Conditional' and 'Unconditional' forwarding?
Yes. Unconditional forwards every single call immediately. Conditional only forwards calls if you are busy, don't answer, or are out of cell range.
Related Terms
Never Miss Another Lead
Connect your business number to SkipCalls via call forwarding and let our AI receptionist answer your calls 24/7 for just $3.99/week.
