uSwitch and similar
uSwitch and similar
Author
Discussion

Landlord

Original Poster:

12,689 posts

288 months

Tuesday 3rd February 2009
quotequote all
Hi,

Has anyone had any experience with "brokers" like uSwith (or indeed, anyone else) that can assist with getting the cheapest (or best value) utilities suppliers. I'm particularly thinking about our business phone rates (which are astronomical).

Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers!
Phil.

mr_spock

3,376 posts

246 months

Tuesday 3rd February 2009
quotequote all
The problem with brokers (I've dealt with a few) is that they end up taking a cut and you don't get best value. What you may need is just some advice from an experienced Telecomms professional who can look at your business and recommend a combination of supplier(s), technology and business policy to contain your costs.

I won't advertise here as it would be wrong, but PM me your number and I may be able to help as that's been a significant part of my services for many years, and I've also been on the provider side.

Landlord

Original Poster:

12,689 posts

288 months

Tuesday 3rd February 2009
quotequote all
mr_spock said:
The problem with brokers (I've dealt with a few) is that they end up taking a cut and you don't get best value. What you may need is just some advice from an experienced Telecomms professional who can look at your business and recommend a combination of supplier(s), technology and business policy to contain your costs.

I won't advertise here as it would be wrong, but PM me your number and I may be able to help as that's been a significant part of my services for many years, and I've also been on the provider side.
Thanks Mr S. I should warn you that my "business" is just a pub and we need a phone no more than a residential person might - therefore, I'm not sure I'll be too "small fry" for you.

It's occured to me, however, that I almost certainly don't need a business phone service. Presumably I can have a residential phone line and use it in the course of my business? Or are there clauses, similar to car insurance etc, that prohibit business use on a residential contract?

Tyre Smoke

23,018 posts

292 months

Tuesday 3rd February 2009
quotequote all
You have mail!

mr_spock

3,376 posts

246 months

Tuesday 3rd February 2009
quotequote all
It all depends on what you use the phone for. For example, if your pub has an attached restaurant and you take bookings, you may want some features that can be provided by your phone provider that will enhance your business. You could combine with a low-cost broadband service and offer free wi-fi. If you have satellite TV for yourself or customers viewing you may save money with combining services.

I'm happy to help a fellow PH'er, just PM me.