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SubscribeEvery businessperson knows the significance of choosing the right kind of dialer for their business. Dialers are automated phone systems that make calls to potential customers and monitor the outcomes of these calls.
Several companies have reported 200-300% more productivity per hour with the use of automated dialers as compared to manual dialing. There are many kinds of dialers available to businesses, but the two most popular kinds are power dialers and predictive dialers.
Both these types have their pros and cons, and the power dialer vs predictive dialer debate is a hot topic of discussion in the business world.
Power Dialer vs Predictive Dialer: An In-Depth Understanding
What Is A Power Dialer?
A power dialer is an automated outbound dialing technology that performs the dialing process on behalf of your agents. This enables salespeople to automatically call a prospect from a fixed list without wasting time dialing manually.
After the call, the agent can take a few minutes to record the details of the conversation and fill out questionnaires, if required. The power dialer then dials the next number, and the process continues. The power dialer will have different useful features depending on your chosen software.
Advantages
The dialer can also be integrated with your CRM to unlock additional benefits. Some of these are:
- Quick and efficient way to get through a dialing list
- Allows agents to set their dial rates
- Option for effective management of dropped calls
- No delay in communication once the prospect picks up the call
Disadvantages
Some of the disadvantages of a power dialer are:
- Does not allow for as many calls as a predictive dialer
- Less personalization when compared to other types of dialers
- Allows for only surface-level conversations as the agents don’t get time to understand the prospect before the call begins
What Is A Predictive Dialer?
A predictive dialer is an automated dialing system powered by statistical algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI). It calls a fixed list of prospects, and when someone picks up the call, it is transferred to the agent or sales representative.
Since multiple numbers are called simultaneously, the process ensures no time is wasted waiting for dial tones or valid phone numbers. Predictive dialers collect and analyze data to determine the likelihood of successful outreach and can be integrated with other business systems, such as CRM, ERP, and HR.
Advantages
Some of the advantages of a predictive dialer are:
- Allows for making non-stop outbound calls
- Lower total cost of operation
- Scalability
- AI-powered and can be integrated with CRMs for improved lead targeting
Disadvantages
Some of the disadvantages of a predictive dialer are:
- Blank calls can result when all agents are busy
- Long pause can result when there is a time lag between the prospect picking up the call and getting connected with an agent
- Doesn’t allow for personalization
Power Dialer vs Predictive Dialer: Key Differences
As discussed below, there are a few key differences between power dialers and predictive dialers.
1. Simplicity
A power dialer simply dials one number after another for each sales representative available.
On the other hand, a predictive dialer uses data analytics and dials numbers from a list based on the estimation of sales representative availability. Thus, power dialers are simpler in how they operate.
2. Efficiency
Using a power dialer results in higher efficiency when compared to using manual dialing.
However, it is not as efficient as a predictive dialer regarding time optimization. Predictive dialers optimize the sales agent’s time and lower idle time, increasing productivity.
3. Call Quality
In power dialing, the agent and the prospect are connected as soon as they answer. However, in predictive dialing, it may take some time to connect agents with prospects who have answered the call.
This may result in awkward silence or a ringing tone until the connection is made. This may annoy or irritate the prospect, leading them to disconnect.
4. Voicemail Option
Using power dialers can give you a chance to leave a voicemail message. However, this option is not available for predictive dialers.
5. Compliance
In many countries, there are laws governing the usage of dialers. A higher dropped-call rate when using a predictive dialer can lead to hefty fines for the business in some countries. Using power dialers can ensure easier compliance.
How to Choose: Power Dialer vs Predictive Dialer
Different kinds of dialers are suitable for different types of businesses. Keep these factors in mind while choosing the best dialer for your business.
1. Data Quality
If your business deals with data sourced from a 3rd party and you expect your connect ratio to be 30% or lower, then a predictive dialer will suit you.
However, if the connection rate is higher and you deal with high-quality data, then it is better to use a power dialer.
2. Call List Size
If your business has to make 1000+ calls per day or every sales agent is expected to make 300+ calls per day, then choose a predictive dialer.
If your business is small to medium and needs to make between 100 to 900 calls daily, you may go for a power dialer.
3. Agent Productivity
Businesses that prioritize agent productivity are better off using predictive dialers. They are especially useful if your company doesn’t have dedicated sales agents to make calls all day long.
If personalization and customer experience are your priority, then use power dialers.
4. Product Value
Businesses that deal in low-priced products can use predictive dialers to maximize sales. Power dialers are recommended for companies that deal in high-priced products as they offer more scope for personalization.
Wrapping Up
Both power dialers and predictive dialers have their pros and cons. You will have to consider some factors before deciding the best option for you. Power dialers are great for small and mid-sized businesses looking to increase their sales efficiency.
If your brand is small but growing, go for the power dialer. However, predictive dialers would be a better choice if you run a large-scale business and are looking to optimize your sales figures.
