How do I get a business's calls answered by the AI receptionist, and do I need to port their number?

There are two ways, and both work.

1. Call forwarding. The business forwards calls from its existing number to the AI agent's Votel number. Most phone services offer conditional forwarding: forward when there is no answer, when busy, instead of voicemail, or after business hours. Owner operators on a cell phone can dial their carrier's call forwarding codes (forward when no answer, forward when busy) and enter the AI agent's number. It takes seconds and is the easiest way to start.
2. Porting. Port the business's number into Votel so Votel controls the number. The AI answers first and, under the conditions you set, forwards the call to the business. Porting is usually the best long-term setup, because the AI can take all the calls. You can start with forwarding and port later.

To port a number, go to Settings, click Phone, and use Transfer numbers to start a transfer. Fill out the form for every number you want to port.

Votel recommends starting with after-hours forwarding. If the business already has a receptionist, do not position the AI as replacing her. Focus on what she cannot do: she handles one or two calls at a time, takes lunch, and does not work nights, weekends or 24/7. Covering those times makes a difference without replacing anyone, and once the business sees how well it works, they may move her to other work.