I can't afford a receptionist & my answering service sucks. Suggestions?

So I pay about $500 a month for my answering service. They drop the ball alot and honestly don't do what I'm paying them to do. They are my 3rd answering service.

I'd like to hire a receptionist but can't really afford that. What do you guys do?

I wish I could hire one and split her with other small businesses :/