Both a virtual receptionist and an auto attendant are used to manage incoming phone calls, but they differ in their level of complexity and functionality. A virtual receptionist is a live person who answers calls and routes them to the appropriate person or department, while also providing basic information and taking messages. Virtual receptionists require training and may involve minimum contracts that may cost several hundreds of dollars per month and up, depending on call volume. An auto attendant is an automated system that uses pre-recorded voice prompts and menu options to guide callers to the appropriate destination. Auto attendants can be set up quickly and can be implemented for just a few dollars per month.