Choosing a mobile service provider

While choice of handset can seem to be the key decision in your mobile needs, you may find that your selection of mobile service provider has the most impact. With a broad range of landline and mobile service providers vying for your attention, you need to be aware of significant differences in certain aspects of service, cost and general user friendliness between providers. The telecommunications ombudsman receives regular complaints about providers who do not meet service standards, so time taken to investigate is time well spent.

Choosing a mobile plan provider

The mobile service company that you choose could make a huge difference to your experience of your telecommunications equipment, be it mobile phones, VoIP or landline. Consider these factors before choosing your provider.

One of the best ways of discerning customer service of companies is simple word of mouth. Ask your family, friends and business associates for their experiences before choosing a provider.
If you live or work in a rural area there might be restrictions on which providers you can use. Check first which ones are available in your area.
Pricing is an important aspect - it’s a good idea to match your budget with plans from more than one provider before choosing, checking each provider’s deals and choices before committing. Each provider will offer varied deals, some of which will suit you better than others.
Take care that cheap service does not come at the cost of customer satisfaction. A very cheap provider may be a godsend, or they may cut cost by reducing service personnel. This may result in unfriendly restrictions on billing practices - few options in the way of payment options, for example.
Check the contract length before committing – many are as long as 24 months, so be aware of the exit terms before you sign up.
Consider what other services the company provides – bundling your internet or landline with your mobile can be an excellent way to cut costs.

Given the service variations between providers, it’s always best to be completely clear on all terms before committing to anything.

Mobile service provider options

Putting time and energy into investigating the best mobile service provider will prove a worthy investment in the long run. With big differences between companies, choosing one that offers not only competitive pricing but also the customer service you expect, as well as the right mobile plan, may seem like a tall order.

However, with some careful research and comparing of plans side by side, you should be able to choose the right provider in no time. Even if this takes several hours (or days), bear in mind that, unless you’re going for a prepaid mobile, you will be tied to your mobile service for a while, so it’s time well spent – and probably time saved later.