Should I handle incoming calls on behalf of a client's business?

We'd recommend that you suggest a call-answering service such as Moneypenny.

Depending on what's needed, a call-answering service can simply take messages for you and/or the client's business more widely. You can then pick up the messages and return the calls when you are in a position to do so, starting your timer as you would for any other task.

It does of course depend on the scale. For example, if it's one set hour a day where you need to be available to answer anything that pops up, perhaps that's manageable (and would be workable on the portal too) and the calls could be transferred directly to you during that set period, and taken care of by a call-answering service at other times.

What's important is that you don't become the answering service, as that's not what we offer at Virtalent, nor how we'd want you to work!

Alternatively, you may wish to look into a joint voicemail box that you can both access.

It's also important to check that there are no financial implications if you make several outbound calls for your client. Please check your mobile phone plan carefully, for inclusive minutes etc.

We'd recommend reading Making Outbound Calls before discussing with the client, and asking us if you are ever unsure.