Victoria, BC · Cost compare
AI receptionist vs hiring a front desk
For a typical Victoria BC service business, a full-time front-desk hire often runs about $4,500–$6,500+ CAD per month once you load wages and employer costs — while a Site Wise AI Voice Receptionist starts around $297–$897/mo for 24/7 missed-call coverage. Use the table below to decide which leak you are actually trying to fix.
| Factor | Hire a receptionist | AI Voice Receptionist |
|---|---|---|
| Typical monthly cost (CAD) | $4,500–$6,500+ loaded (wage + EI/CPP/benefits estimate) | $297–$897/mo + setup (Starter–Pro voice tiers) |
| Coverage hours | Usually business hours; overtime or second hire for nights/weekends | 24/7 inbound answering on a dedicated line |
| Missed calls after hours | Voicemail or spill to owner’s cell | Answers, FAQs, books calendar, escalates urgent calls |
| Ramp / hiring risk | Recruiting, training, sick days, turnover | Days to go live; Site Wise operates the agent |
| Best fit | High-touch in-person lobby, complex multi-role admin | Trades & service businesses losing jobs to missed calls |
Wage ranges are planning estimates for Greater Victoria / Island SMBs, not a quote. Confirm current Voice tiers on pricing.
When hiring still wins
Keep or hire a person when you need a physical lobby presence, complex multi-role admin, or relationship work that cannot live on a phone line. AI is a poor substitute for a trusted office manager — and a strong substitute for voicemail.
When AI covers the expensive leak
Trades and service businesses in Victoria, BC lose jobs when calls hit voicemail during jobs, evenings, and weekends. Speed-to-lead and voice agents answer, qualify, and book — then your crew shows up. That is the problem Site Wise AI agents and Voice Receptionist are built for.
FAQ
- Is an AI receptionist meant to replace a person?
- Often it covers the leak first — missed and after-hours calls — so your team closes more work. Some shops keep a part-time person for lobby/admin and use AI for the phone.
- What does Site Wise charge in Victoria?
- AI Voice Receptionist tiers on our pricing menu run roughly $297–$897/mo with setup fees, including minute buckets (e.g. 200 / 400 / 800). See /pricing for the current menu.
- Who is this for?
- Trades, service businesses, and professional services in Greater Victoria and surrounding areas, including Vancouver.