Glossary
Plain-English answers about AI phone receptionists
Clear, no-jargon definitions of the terms behind AI call answering, from AI receptionists to call overflow, so you can tell what's marketing and what's real.
What is an AI receptionist?
An AI receptionist answers business calls in a natural voice, answers questions, books callers, and texts back missed calls. Here's how it works and what it costs.
What is a virtual receptionist?
A virtual receptionist handles business calls remotely, via a live human agent or AI software. Learn the types, what they cost, and when to use one.
What is an answering service?
An answering service takes calls for a business when staff cannot answer, capturing messages or routing callers. Learn the types and what they cost.
What is call overflow?
Call overflow happens when more calls arrive than staff can answer. Learn what causes it, what it costs in lost business, and how to fix it.
What is interactive voice response (IVR)?
IVR presents callers with phone menus to navigate by key press or voice command. Learn how interactive voice response works and where it falls short.
What is call routing?
Call routing directs incoming calls to the right destination based on rules you set. Learn how it works, the main types, and how AI changes the decision.
What is a business phone system?
A business phone system manages your company's calls, voicemail, and routing. Learn the main types, what they cost, and what small businesses actually need.
What is VoIP?
VoIP transmits phone calls over the internet instead of copper lines. Learn how Voice over Internet Protocol works and what it means for your business.
What is a missed call?
A missed call is an inbound call that went unanswered and a potential lead lost. Learn what missed calls cost service businesses and how to prevent them.
What is conversational AI?
Conversational AI understands natural speech and responds in kind. Learn how it works, where businesses use it, and how Leap applies it to calls.