With 2011 almost upon us, I thought it might be nice to indulge in a time-honored tradition and share some New Year’s resolutions. We’re not just any ol’ answering service, and our spirited phone answering pros are what set us apart. Here’s what some of our talented virtual receptionists and staff have planned for the new year:

“In 2011, I’m hoping to get back into my hobby of editing film. There’s nothing better than having a bowl of popcorn while you’re making a movie!” – Katie Wilson, a.k.a. your humble author

“Growing my sewing/knitting hobby into a small business.” – Hilary, Virtual Receptionist (See above for a peek at her handywork!)

“Attend at least one party, have one gallery opening, help one person I don’t know, help someone I love, and have a really great year! I might as well aim high!” – Michele, Virtual Receptionist

“I’m going back to college in January, so I’ll need to focus on keeping the balance in my life!” – LeAnna, Virtual Receptionist

“Save money, read and journal more, and have more fun!” – Emily, Virtual Receptionist

“In 2011, I would like to visit somewhere I’ve never been, volunteer more (fostering kitties, here I come!), and expand my springtime garden!” – Sarah, Director of Culture (and fellow blog writer)

“I don’t make a resolution, but I do declare a theme of focus for the year. Last year it was ‘Live my values.’ This year I’d like to focus on my health and longevity so I can be a healthy role model for my daughter Piper.” – Ang, Staff Manager

“This is a big year for me! I am continuing my education in the evenings and maintaining going to the gym at least 5 days a week. I want to be healthier before starting a family!” – Jewel, Director of Receptionist Services

What’s your resolution for 2011? Or if you’re not the resolution type, what are you looking forward to next year? Share in the comment section below!

Ruby_® Receptionists will be closed on Friday, December 24th and Saturday, December 25th for the federally observed Christmas holiday. We will also be closed on Friday, December 31st and Saturday, January 1st for the federally observed New Year’s holiday. During that time, calls will be answered as instructed by your afterhours call handling.

Thank you to all who have made 2010 such a wonderful year for us, and we wish you a happy & healthy holiday and a bright new year! Cheers to you!

Best wishes,

The Ruby Team

We’re thrilled that Ruby_® Receptionists is once again one of Oregon Business magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For in Oregon” for 2011! Nearly 14,000 employees from businesses across Oregon, including our team of phone answering pros, voted to compile the list.

This is our second consecutive year to be included, and we are very thankful to everyone that has helped us make Ruby such a great place to work! From our virtual receptionists to our supportive staff to our enthusiastic clients, you all make Ruby truly special, and not just another answering service. We’re also particularly proud of this award since Fostering Happiness is one of our Core Values!

We’re looking forward to finding out where we rank at the “100 Best” banquet on March 3rd. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to register to attend the event, you can do so on Oregon Business’ website.

We are celebrating three Ruby_® anniversaries this month! Outgoing Client Services Associate Sara Briggs and gregarious virtual receptionist Sara-Lee B. are both rocking their third year at Ruby Receptionists. Congrats go out as well to thoughtful virtual receptionist Hilary P. who is celebrating her first year at Ruby! In honor of their anniversaries, here’s a little more about each of these talented gals:

What’s your favorite part about working at Ruby?

Sara Briggs: The sense of family and the friends that I have made. The women that work here are solid, forward-thinking, extremely strong ladies.

Hilary P.: At Ruby, we’re never treated as just another face in the office crowd — it’s a family. We laugh together, help each other through hard times, everything.

Sara-Lee B.: It would have to be the insanely cool people I work with. These people are funny, whip-smart, loyal and kind. Not only do I have great co-workers but I’ve also made life long friends. It just doesn’t get any better than this!

What’s your favorite part about living in Portland?

Sara Briggs: I definitely like the music scene here.

Hilary P.: There’s always something amazing going on! Whether it’s a street fair, a crazy film festival, or a theme night at a club, Portland definitely always keeps it interesting.

Sara-Lee B.: Waking up to the sunrise over Mt. Hood…. You just can’t get that anywhere else.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not at Ruby?

Sara Briggs: I enjoy cooking with my boyfriend and hunkering down to watch some horror movies. I’m a bit of a horror fanatic. I also enjoy creating elaborate costumes for various occasions [see above for my getup from the Ruby Barn Bash], submersing myself in music, and heading out for nights of dancing with the ladies.

Hilary P.: Crafting! I love to make things from felt, like wallets or soft toys. I’m working on a line of cell phone cases that are shaped like monsters and robots!

Sara-Lee B.: I also love to craft in my “off” time from Ruby. I am a profitable Macaroni artist. Yes, I said Macaroni artist, however, I am thinking of branching out into the wonderful wide world of buttons….