What is Unconditional Call Forwarding? How to Turn It On/Off?

Unconditional call forwarding is a telecommunication feature that automatically redirects calls from your primary phone number to another designated number without any conditions. Unlike conditional call forwarding, where the incoming calls are directed to another number when you’re busy or unreachable, call forwarding unconditional means it forwards all your incoming calls regardless of the condition of your original phone line. It’s a direct and efficient way to receive every call without the caller making multiple attempts.

Businesses often utilize unconditional call forwarding to provide their employees access to their primary line even though they are not physically present at the office. It lets you connect through the primary business line from any device and location.

Unconditional call forwarding offers connectivity through the main business line for remote workers. Forwarding calls unconditionally ensures that your employees remain in the loop, receiving all your calls on their home devices. It seamlessly connects them to the operational workflow, ensuring to never miss a beat in their professional communications.

Unconditionally forwarding calls ensures that you answer all the customer calls promptly, no matter your primary line’s state. It reduces the chance of customers feeling neglected or frustrated for not replying to them. This immediate access to assistance or information can significantly boost customer satisfaction levels.

Unconditional call forwarding routes calls to a specified service, such as voicemail or an after-hours support team, to cater to customers or clients outside of regular business hours. It ensures every call is acknowledged, providing a root for continuous engagement and support, even when the office is closed.

You can forward calls unconditionally on your iPhone directly from your device’s settings app - simply access the setting and turn on the call forwarding option.

Step 1: Open the “Settings” app from your home screen.

Step 2: Scroll through the menu and select “Phone” to access your call settings.

Step 3: Select the “Call Forwarding” option. Switch the “Call Forwarding” toggle to the ON position.

Step 4: Click “Forward To” and key in the number to which you wish to forward your calls. 

Step 5: Navigate to the previous menu; it automatically saves your changes.

To deactivate unconditional call forwarding on iPhone, follow the same steps and toggle the switch to OFF.

To set up unconditional call forwarding on Android, access the settings within the built-in phone app and activate the call forwarding functionalities to ‘Always Forward.’

Step 1: Open the “Phone” app on your Android device.

Step 2: Tap the three dots or the “More” icon in the upper right corner. Choose “Settings” from the menu.

Step 3: Navigate to “Call Settings” and select “Call Forwarding.”

Step 4: Select the option “Always Forward.”

Step 5: Type in the phone number to which you wish to forward all your calls.

Step 6:  Hit “OK” to save and apply your call forwarding settings.

Follow the same process and turn off the “Call Forwarding” option to deactivate unconditional call forwarding on Android.

To set up unconditional call forwarding on a landline, dial the *72 phone code, the phone number to which you want to forward the calls, and the hash mark (#).

Step 1: Dial *72, the universal command for activating call forwarding on landlines.

Step 2: Enter the full phone number where you want to direct your incoming calls.

Step 3: Press the hash mark (#).

Step 4: Wait for the confirmation tone or message.

Step 5: Once you receive confirmation, hang up the phone.

Once you are ready to receive calls on your landlines, you can deactivate call forwarding. Simply dial *73# and wait for the confirmation beep.

Unconditional call forwarding ensures constant communication, but it has limitations. Understanding these can help businesses make informed decisions and plan accordingly to mitigate potential downsides.

• Cost Implications: Forwarding calls, especially to a mobile device, can incur additional charges, impacting overall communication costs. Monitoring these expenses is crucial to avoid unexpected bills.
• Risk of Missed Calls: Relying solely on another number to receive calls can lead to missed interactions if the forwarded number is busy or unattended. Having a reliable system or person is important to manage these calls.
• Lack of Personalization: Unconditionally forwarding all calls can remove the personal touch of direct communication. Callers expecting to reach you directly may feel detached when consistently redirected elsewhere.
• Confidentiality Concerns: Confidential information can be overheard or mishandled when calls are forwarded to shared or less secure numbers. Establishing protocols for handling sensitive calls is essential.
• Dependency on Forwarding Number: The effectiveness of unconditional call forwarding hinges on the reliability of the forwarded line. Any issues with the secondary number directly affect your ability to receive calls.

When forwarding calls unconditionally, you must direct a call to a number that is continuously monitored. It guarantees the prompt addressing of every forwarded call. 

Always consider the sensitivity of information that might be shared over forwarded calls. If multiple people or an external service access the forwarded number, brief them on handling confidential information. Consider setting up protocols that minimize the risk of sensitive data exposure.

After configuring call forwarding, conduct thorough testing to verify that calls are being correctly redirected. Make test calls from various numbers to ensure the forwarding process is seamless and that the intended recipient number is receiving the calls as expected.

When setting up unconditional call forwarding, prioritize forwarding calls to trusted numbers. It could be your personal number, a dedicated colleague, or a professional answering service. Ensuring the recipient is reliable and capable of handling calls appropriately maintains your reputation and safeguards your business communications.

If calls are forwarded to a team member or department, ensure they are adequately trained to handle incoming calls. It includes briefing them on expected call volumes, types of inquiries, and the appropriate responses or actions to be taken. It helps maintain consistency and quality in customer service.

Keep in constant communication with those receiving your forwarded calls. Regular updates on business changes, caller trends, and specific instructions help them accurately represent your business. It ensures they are well-prepared to act as your first point of contact.

Unconditional call forwarding ensures no call goes unanswered and maintains seamless business operations and customer satisfaction. However, recognizing its limitations is crucial to avoid potential communication gaps.

Calilio offers advanced call-forwarding solutions that cater to modern communication needs. Our cloud phone system enhances call management and integrates seamlessly with your business communication strategy, keeping you always connected with your clients.