Choosing toolsAcross trades
Before buying an AI receptionist, test these seven calls
A practical scorecard for fees, service areas, booking, after-hours requests, existing jobs, complaints, and human handoffs.
Checklist
by AugmentDesk
AugmentDesk editorial team
The AugmentDesk team writes practical guides to choosing and using call-handling services for local trade businesses.
TradeWise is published by AugmentDesk, which sells AI phone receptionist software. Our guides are editorial advice, not independent product certification or proof of business results.
Our approachGuides from the editorial team
Choosing toolsAcross trades
AI receptionist or answering service for a one-person trade business?
Compare AI, human, and hybrid call coverage using the same intake tasks, handoff rules, and cost worksheet.
Field guide
Calls and bookingElectrical
How a solo electrician can handle calls while working
A practical call-coverage flow for electricians who need to finish the job and capture the next inquiry.
Field guide
Calls and bookingPlumbing
After-hours plumbing calls: what your receptionist needs to capture
A coverage worksheet separating answering, callback, dispatch, and arrival commitments.
Checklist
Calls and bookingHVAC
HVAC call overflow: what to do when the office is busy
Set up overflow intake and an accountable handoff without inventing appointment times or technician ETAs.
Checklist
Choosing toolsAcross trades
Why customers complain about AI phone systems—and what to test
Turn complaints about loops, unclear handoffs, and unsupported promises into observable receptionist tests.
Checklist
Quotes and pricingElectrical
How to explain your electrical service-call fee
A practical disclosure script for trip charges, minimum labor, and what an electrical service visit includes.
Script + guide
Calls and bookingPlumbing
A missed-call follow-up process for a small plumbing shop
Give every missed plumbing call an owner, a clear next step, and a truthful callback commitment.
Checklist