Six Steps to Finding the Wireless Phone of Your Dreams
Karen Ludwig

If your business frequently takes you on the road, you know the inconvenience of being away from your telephone| -- missing important calls from clients, having to retrieve messages and finding the time to return them, and driving frantically home or to a pay phone to call your partner before you forget what it is you need to tell him.

A wireless phone can be the perfect solution to these problems. You probably already have one or at least thought about getting one. Admittedly, it can be an overwhelming task with so many choices out there. But, whether you’re looking for your first phone, or an upgrade from the one you currently have, there are some general guidelines that can help insure you make the best purchase -- the one that will best match your needs.

First, spend some time gathering general information about the various wireless providers in your area. Visit a wireless phone retail outlet or kiosk in your local mall and ask the salesperson for brochures and other literature on their products and services. Or, do your research on the Internet. Most retailers have websites. Be sure to get information on the company’s coverage area, its pricing plans, and contract information. This should occupy you for a few days.

Next, take a closer look at the coverage areas of different providers, and compare what they offer to what you need. Will you only be using your phone locally or will you use it when you travel to different cities and states? There could be what are called roaming charges, or charges accrued for calls placed outside of your local calling area, depending on the provider. Beware: no phone works all places at all times, but you should be able to find something that closely suits your needs.

Decide whether you’re willing to sign a contact. Some companies require you to commit to one or two years of service or longer. This might not be a problem for you; in fact, it could even have perks, like receiving a free phone when you sign.

However, there are times you might not want to sign a contract. For some companies, breaking the contract will force you to pay a termination fee, which sometimes can be up to $300. For example, maybe you know you’re going to be moving out of the service area within the year, or you’re not sure if you will need a phone for the entire length of the contract, because you’re hoping to cut travel from your agenda soon. Again, there is no right or wrong choice here, it’s totally up to you.

Choose a pricing plan that is affordable and realistic. Try to calculate the amount of time you will use the phone in a month. A basic formula is to determine the average number or minutes or hours you think you will talk on the phone each day, then multiply that number by 30 days. Most people tend to underestimate. So, be safe and look for a plan that offers slightly more time than you’ve calculated.

Also, consider long distance charges and other potential cost-saving features. Some providers offer free long distance service, which, if you have customers across the country, might be the way to go. Some companies offer the first incoming minute free. Caller ID and built-in answering machines can also save money by letting you view the number of the person who is calling on your screen, and giving you the option to answer the call or just take a message. Some companies allow you to access your answering machine via landline phones, saving you airtime charges.

When you have determined your needs, do some comparison shopping between similar plans from the different providers. Look for any special promotions that can save you money.

Now that you have found a provider and a pricing plan, choose a phone. (If you weren’t given a specific model as part of a contract or other special deal.) Phone prices can range from $0 with a contract to $800 -- a very wide range. So what is the difference between one phone and another?

Size does matter in this case. Do you plan to carry your phone in your pocket, your briefcase,or your purse? Will you leave it in your car’s glovebox? Make sure you make the appropriate choice. Do you need a larger screen display because of poor vision? Do you prefer larger buttons? Some phones are "flip" models, folding into half their size when not in use, and lending added protection from damage to keys and the screen.

Also, take battery life into consideration. Standby time is the length of time a phone can stay on waiting to make or receive a call before recharging the battery. Talk time is the length of time you can talk continuously on a phone before recharging the battery. If you just plan to use your phone on occasion, and don’t plan to leave it on all day, you don’t need to worry about battery life as much as someone who plans to use his phone constantly.

Finally, decide what "extras" you want. Some phones offer different ringing sounds and even a silent vibrating mode. Some have built-in video games and calendars too. Sprint PCS recently launched the Wireless Web -- allowing you to access email, news, stock quotes, weather, sports, driving directions and phone listing on your phone’s screen. Other providers are sure to follow.

Don’t forget the accessories. These are the items that can help enhance the usage of your phone. Examples are leather carrying cases, extra batteries, and cigarette lighter adapters. For safer driving, there are two options, headset adapters and hands-free car kits. Many states are considering passing a law which would require one of these devices in order to use your phone while driving. (Talking on the phone while you’re driving isn’t a good idea, in any case.)