Guide
What is an AI receptionist?
A plain-English guide for builders, plumbers, roofers and electricians who are tired of losing work to missed calls.
What does an AI receptionist actually do?
It answers your business phone, has a natural conversation with the caller, asks the questions you'd ask — what the job is, where it is, how urgent — and sends you a lead card with a summary and transcript. You stay in control; it just makes sure no enquiry is lost because you were on the tools.
How is it different from a call centre or answering service?
A traditional answering service takes a message and passes it on. An AI receptionist can qualify the enquiry in real time, book appointments, and handle common questions without sounding robotic. It is always on, never has a sick day, and costs a fraction of a full-time hire.
Do I need to change my phone number?
No. You keep your existing business number and simply divert missed calls to the AI receptionist. Customers call the same number they already know.
How much does an AI receptionist cost?
Prices vary, but most UK AI receptionist services for small businesses range from £100 to £400 per month. TradeRing is £399/month with a 28-day money-back guarantee, no setup fee and no per-call charges.
Will an AI receptionist replace a human receptionist?
For most small trade businesses, it replaces the missed call, not the person. It captures enquiries, qualifies jobs and books appointments while you are working. You still decide which jobs to quote, when to visit and what to charge.
Why trades businesses use one
- Answers every call, 24/7
- Qualifies jobs before you call back
- Books appointments while you're on site
- Sends instant summaries and transcripts
- Works with your existing phone number