Virtual Receptionist vs. In-House Staff

Running a business means making smart choices. One big choice is how to handle your phone calls. You can either hire someone to work at your front desk or use a virtual receptionist—someone who answers calls from another location. Let’s break down what’s better for Winnipeg businesses.

How Much Does a Receptionist Really Cost?

In Winnipeg Canada, the average salary for a receptionist is $42,000 per year. But that’s not the whole story.

Here’s what else you pay for:

• Benefits & Taxes: $10,500–$16,800

• Training & Supervision: $3,000–$5,000

• Office Space: $4,800–$7,200

• Equipment & Tech: $1,500–$2,500

• Hiring Costs: $2,000–$4,000

Total Cost Each Year: $63,800–$77,500

What About a Virtual Receptionist?

Virtual receptionist services work differently. You pay a monthly fee depending on how many calls you get.

• Monthly Plans: $249–$3,299

• Set-Up Costs: Usually less than $100

• You Can Adjust Plans Anytime

Total Cost Each Year: $2,988–$39,588
You Save Around 40–60% vs. hiring someone in-house.

Performance: Who Answers More Calls?

• In-House Receptionist: Answers 85–95% of calls—but only during work hours (9–5).

• Virtual Receptionist: Answers 98–99% of calls, 24/7 if needed.

Winnipeg businesses often get a lot of after-hours calls—25% of calls come in after 5 PM. A virtual receptionist won’t miss them.

More Reasons to Go Virtual in Winnipeg

• No Missed Days: Snowstorm? Sick day? Doesn’t matter. Virtual receptionists are always there.

• No Office Needed: Save money on rent—especially since Winnipeg’s downtown office space costs $22–$28 per square foot.

• No Hiring Hassles: Skip the stress of finding and training staff.

• Perfect for Seasonal Businesses: Easily scale up during busy times and down in slow months.

Real Winnipeg Stories

Downtown Law Firm

• Saved $2,350/month

• 26% more new clients

• Got 180 sq ft of space back

Tour Company

• Used more minutes in summer, fewer in winter

• No need to hire extra help

• Off-season bookings went up 32%

• First-year ROI: 742%

So, What’s Best for You?

Choose a Virtual Receptionist if:

• You want 24/7 call coverage

• Your call volume changes by season

• You need to save space and money

• You want fewer HR problems

Stick with In-House Staff if:

• You need someone to greet walk-ins

• Your systems are complex

• You handle very private information

• You need extra admin help beyond answering calls

The Bottom Line

Most Winnipeg businesses can save money and serve more customers with a virtual receptionist. You’ll also have more time and money to grow your business.

Olivia Assist offers virtual receptionist services made just for Winnipeg. We understand the local challenges and can help your business shine.

Want to see how much you can save? Contact us today for a free ROI report.