The numbers
- Human receptionist: $18–$24/hr + benefits ≈ $50k/yr fully loaded, 40hr/wk coverage.
- Answering service: $1.20–$2.00 per minute, unpredictable monthly bill.
- AI voice agent: $0.10–$0.20 per minute, 24/7, unlimited concurrency.
Where AI wins
After-hours calls, spikes in demand, missed-call recovery, outbound follow-up on new leads.
Where humans still win
High-emotion escalations, complex negotiations, VIP concierge experiences. The best setups blend both.
See home services and medspa playbooks.
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