All you Need to Know About Mobile Call Forwarding

Call forwarding is a convenient feature that enables mobile phone users to redirect incoming calls to another number of their choice. Setting up mobile call forwarding can be a valuable tool if you don't want to miss any important calls while on the go or need to limit the time you are available to communicate personally over the phone.

This feature is handy when you may be out of reach or unable to answer your phone, as it ensures that your calls are still attended to. This guide will walk you through the steps to enable call forwarding on iPhones and Android phones, providing flexibility and control over your phone calls. 

Call Forwarding on iPhone iOS Devices

Diverting calls on an iPhone is a straightforward process that allows you to forward incoming calls to another phone number.

Here's how to set up call forwarding on iPhones

1. Open Settings: Start by opening your iPhone's Settings app.
   
   
2. Tap on Phone: Scroll down and tap the 'Phone' option.
   
   
3. Go to Call Forwarding: You will see an option for 'Call Forwarding'. Tap on it.
   
   
4. Enable Call Forwarding: Toggle the 'Call Forwarding' option to 'On'. When you enable this, you will see a field where you can enter a phone number.
   
   
5. Enter the Number: Type in the phone number to which you want your calls forwarded. Make sure you enter the number correctly.
   
   
6. Exit Settings: Once you enter the number, the changes will save automatically. You can exit out of the settings.

All incoming calls to your iPhone will now be automatically forwarded to the specified number. To stop forwarding calls, return to the 'Call Forwarding' settings and toggle it off. 

Call Forwarding on Android Mobile Devices

Setting up call forwarding on an Android mobile phone can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, model, and Android version used. So, be prepared for some variations based on your specific device.

Here's how to set up call forwarding on Android Phones

1. Open the Phone App: Start by opening the default phone dialer app on your Android device.
   
   
2. Access Settings: Tap on the three dots in the upper right corner of the screen to open the menu, then select 'Settings' from the dropdown options.
   
   
3. Find Call Settings: Within the settings menu, look for a section related to calls. This could be labelled 'Calls', 'Call Settings', 'Supplementary Services' or something similar.
   
   
4. Select Call Forwarding: Find and select 'Call Forwarding' in the call settings menu. You might find this under 'Additional settings', 'Advanced', or directly listed.
   
   
5. Choose Forwarding Options: You'll typically have several options for call forwarding:
   
   
   • Always forward: All calls are forwarded.
   • Forward when busy: Calls are forwarded when you are on another call.
   • Forward when unanswered: Calls are forwarded if you don't pick up.
   • Forward when unreachable: Calls are forwarded if your phone is off or out of service area.
     
     
6. Enter the Phone Number: Choose the option that suits your needs and enter the phone number where you want the calls forwarded.
   
   
7. Activate the Service: After entering the number, confirm or activate the forwarding setting. This might require you to tap 'Enable', 'Turn On', or a similar confirmation button.
   
   
8. Test the Setting: It's a good idea to test the setting by calling your Android phone from another number. This step ensures that calls are being forwarded correctly, giving you the confidence that the process has been successful.

To disable call forwarding, go back to the 'Call Forwarding' settings and turn off whichever options you enabled. Remember, the process can be slightly different depending on your phone's manufacturer and Android version, so if these steps don't precisely match your device, look for similar terms and settings.

Options where you can forward your calls

Work-Related Calls

If you receive mostly work-related calls from clients, business contacts, or other employees of your own business, forward them to a phone or business line that will be answered with professionalism and represent you in the best possible terms. Here are a few options:
 

1. Another Personal Device
   If you are forwarding calls from a work mobile, consider forwarding them to another personal mobile or landline. This option is most suitable if you need to be available to take calls personally but are using an alternative device.
   
   
2. Another Team Member
   Ideal if you want a work colleague within your department to handle calls when you are unavailable.
   
   
3. Receptionist or Call Centre Within Your Business
   Helpful if you have a dedicated receptionist or call centre within your own business to manage incoming calls professionally.
   
   
4. Outsourced Telephone Answering Service
   Beneficial if you want to ensure that calls are answered even outside business hours or during peak times when you or your team might be busy.

Non-Work Related Calls

If you're mainly receiving non-work related calls from family and friends, it's generally best to manage these calls personally rather than using a call forwarding option. With that said, if that is not an option, then here are a few suggestions:
 

1. Home Landline
   If you have a home landline that someone will answer on your behalf, you might consider forwarding calls there, especially if you prefer not to be disturbed on your mobile phone during certain hours.
   
   
2. Voicemail
   Setting up a dedicated voicemail for personal calls can be useful. You can personalise the greeting to inform callers when you might be available to return their calls.
   
   
3. Family Member
   If you are often unavailable and a family member can take messages for you, this might be a practical option. However, ensure this arrangement respects your privacy and that of your callers.
   
   
4. Outsourced Telephone Answering Service
   An answering service would allow you to set up a specific scripted route for calls from friends and family, enabling telephone operators to ask particular questions or pass on messages according to predefined criteria. A service of this type would guarantee discretion and professionalism, ensuring that all personal information is handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Final Thoughts

Remember, it's important to maintain a balance between accessibility and privacy, especially with personal calls. Consider these options based on your typical availability and the preferences of your family and friends.

Mobile call forwarding can significantly enhance your time management and ensure you never miss an important call, whether for personal or professional reasons. With the straightforward steps outlined for both iPhone and Android devices, you can effortlessly set up and manage call forwarding to suit your needs.

Visit our comprehensive guide on call forwarding to explore additional insights and tips that can benefit your business. Whether you are a start-up, a sole trader, or a small business owner, the right call management strategy can make all the difference in maintaining excellent customer service.

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