As you may recall, our last eNews to USE was sent on July 8th and at that time we informed you of our decision to deliver an updated newsletter format that would be easier to read and navigate. At that time we predicted it would take a couple of weeks to perfect but it took a bit longer. Now, after eight weeks we believe we have the best HTML, interactive newsletter available and we're hoping you will find its value stands out among those of our competitors and peers! This is our first issue, which will be emailed biweekly to you and any other sales reps, employees or agents you find will benefit from our communication. We are truly excited about the investment we've made and hope you use this resources to your best advantage in conjunction with CMS to WIN MORE BUSINESS!
Here are a few highlights regarding the features and functionality of this newsletter:
To the right of the content you will notice each of our carrier logs. Click on the carrier of your choice to link directly to the portel for that specific carrier. Some carrier logos will take you directly to the carrier site (for those who require us to work directly from their sites) and the remainder will link directly to the CMS portal. You will need to request access (if you don't have already) via a direct logon from CMS. All CMS access requires a user name and password. If you do not have direct access or logon rights please click here: WEB ACCESS AGREEMENT. Once you complete the agreement and fax it back to us, we will set you up with a logon.
To the left of our content section are our article listings, which, if clicked will take you to a specific article of interest. The center content section will house a summary or opening paragrah of the article. You can then click on the full story and a second page will open, which contains the entire article. There is also an "opt out" and an "add to" feature for inclusion on our distribution list near the bottom left section. Additionally, you will find an archive link in the same area that will link to all past eNews to USE issues.
My goal and that of our staff, is to provide each of you with the information you want and need so that together we can close more business! Please provide us with your feedback so we can continue to provide the information and resources that are most relevent to your business, including what type of articles and information you would like to see.
CARRIER HIGHLIGHT
This week's column is dedicated to one carrier: AireSpring! I would like to put an emphasis on the added value that AireSpring brings, especially when compared to most of the other carriers you may have experience with. If you are not familiar with Airespring, then I recommend that you take a CMS Web Tour to find out more. Click on our CMS Calendar of Events to link to the September calendar if you would like to schedule a time to participate in a tour and training. We would also be happy to set up an introductory call between you, your staff and our support team at AireSpring.
AireSpring has a VERY “sweet spot”: Voice services and pricing. This applies to switched, dedicated, domestic and international. They have incredible rates - especially switched international! They also pay commissions that are the highest in the industry. The reason AireSpring can offer such low rates and pay high commissions is because of the processes they utilize for maximum efficiency. AireSpring has achieved far more than any other carrier in their quest for automation of each component of the order process; from the initial quote and paperwork request to provisioning, billing and customer care.
We want you to know that CMS was an important catalyst of AireSpring’s electronic quote engine. In fact, it was developed using our in house quote forms and input to insure the ultimate in simplicity of use. And more importantly, the ability to deliver a professional customer presentable quote at any time, along with the necessary (pre-populated) order forms inclusive of the customer’s information and rate plans. Customer information auto populates into the quote engine based on your initial input and is delivered right to your inbox, ready to edit further if necessary using Microsoft WORD. Currently, CMS is the only agency using this tool!
For an overview of the quote engine, click on this link: AIRESPRING. It will allow you to complete a sample quote and realize the advantages at your leisure. Please take note of the following:
- Choose (3) carriers to quote, Qwest, Global and Emeritus –
- Choose flat rates or tiered rates –
- Choose the rate plan based on customers needs and your needs based on the commission percentage shown next to each rate plan –
- Submit to an email address (yours), open up in Word and check out the proposal and order forms
Now it gets really exciting! Once an order is submitted you will log on to AGENT S.T.A.R - A system for tracking and reporting. This gives you real time confirmation of the status of your order along with copies of all email confirmations your customer receives through the implementation process. Each step of the provisioning process including PIC’s are also recorded for your review as well as current detailed information and order status. You are no longer dependent on anyone to gather information and now have 24/7 access via your Internet connection for every customer requesting service. This account visibility also applies to billing and payment information. All invoices are available for your review in a .PDF format just as your customer receives along with all AP and AR detail for the life of the account. This tool also tracks your sales reps or agent accounts and will allow you to review all applicable customer accounts.
If this is not enough we can also include VBOS access, which will give you even more detail into your orders and configurations, access to real time call detail records (non-rated) and several other features that previously only resellers and carriers had access to.
One step further and Airespring will create a web site that will give you automated sign-ups in addition to all the same account detail as noted above for both residential and business customers using the same switched rates that in the past were only available to business customers. Account size is no longer a factor. The web site (which you can view by clicking here: CMS Long Distance) will highlight your company name, address, contact info and web address; and will copy you on all sign ups and provide reports of click-thrus for reporting and user evaluation. Send me an email and I will have you set up in less than a day. Keep in mind that this service and web site capability is free to you and if you’re like other agents who have already communicated enthusiasm for the potential, you will have customers signing up for the service the same day you send out links to your friends, relatives and business contacts or through advertising that you may link to.
If you don’t understand how this works we will train you via a web conference. My goal is to encourage you to use the sales or marketing tools made available through AireSpring and train you to be more efficient with your time by taking advantage of AireSpring’s investment, which makes it easy for you to do business through them.
Send an email to Airespring@cmstelcom.com for any information you may need and we will set you up and train you, your staff and/or your sales force. Our AireSpring management team is also available to you at any time and is available and willing to assist with any training necessary.
As always, contact my staff or me with any questions. We are always happy to help.
Good Selling!
Gene