How to Divert Calls: A Step-by-Step Guide

In our fast-paced digital world, managing incoming calls efficiently is crucial for both personal and professional communication. Whether you’re looking to avoid distractions during work hours or you simply cannot take a call at the moment, call diversion is a practical solution. This guide will take you through the various methods of diverting calls on different devices and networks, ensuring you never miss an important conversation while also maintaining control over your communication.

Why Divert Calls?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s discuss the “why.” There are several reasons to consider diverting calls:

1. Avoiding Interruptions: If you’re in a meeting or involved in focused work, diverting calls can keep interruptions at bay.
2. Vacation or Travel: When you’re away, call diversion ensures important calls are still attended to.
3. Changing Your Number: If you’re in the process of changing your phone number but want to ensure no calls are missed.
4. Specific Hours: For businesses, setting specific hours for calls can improve work-life balance.

How to Divert Calls on Different Devices

1. Android Devices

Most Android devices come with built-in features to divert calls. Here’s how to do it:

• Open the Phone App: Launch your phone application.
• Access Settings: Tap on the three-dot menu in the upper right corner, then select “Settings.”
• Call Forwarding: Look for “Call Forwarding” or “Calling Accounts,” depending on your device.
• Choose Preferences: You’ll see options like “Always forward,” “Forward when busy,” “Forward when unanswered,” or “Forward when unreachable.” Select the one that suits your needs.
• Enter Number: Input the phone number you want to divert calls to, and save your settings.

2. iPhone Devices

For iPhone users, the process is straightforward:

• Open Settings: Go to your device’s home screen and tap on the “Settings” app.
• Phone Settings: Scroll down and select the “Phone” option.
• Call Forwarding: Tap on “Call Forwarding” and toggle it to enable.
• Enter Forwarding Number: Input the number to which you wish to divert your calls. Save your changes, and you’re set.

3. Landlines

For landline phones, call diversion methods can vary based on your service provider. The general steps include:

• Contact Your Provider: Reach out to your phone service provider to inquire about call diversion services.
• Follow Instructions: Providers may require you to dial a specific code or set up the service through their website or customer service.
• Set the Number: Similar to mobile devices, you will need to specify the number you want to divert calls to.

4. Using Carrier Services

Most mobile carriers also provide call forwarding services using simple codes:

• Forward All Calls: Dial *21[number]# and press the call button (replace [number] with the target number).
• Forward When Busy: Dial *67[number]#.
• Forward When Unanswered: Dial *61[number]#.
• Forward When Unreachable: Dial *62[number]#.

To deactivate these services, simply dial ##21#, ##67#, ##61#, or ##62# respectively.

Benefits of Call Diversion

1. Seamless Communication: Remaining accessible even when you can’t pick up enhances overall communication.
2. Enhanced Professionalism: For businesses, managing calls effectively helps maintain a professional image.
3. Personal Time Management: Allows individuals to focus on personal tasks without disturbance.

Diverting calls is an invaluable feature that can significantly enhance your ability to manage communication. By utilizing the options available on various devices and networks, you can ensure you stay connected on your terms. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student juggling studies, or simply someone looking for a break from phone distractions, mastering the art of call diversion can lead to a more organized and less stressful life.