Need a business phone number for your small business? Here is everything you need to know about these numbers and what to consider when purchasing them.
What to Keep in Mind When Getting a Business Phone Number
Business phone numbers are telephone numbers used by businesses to open communication channels between them and their customers. In other words, business numbers are used by customers to contact a business, either to inquire about a product or service or for customer support.
Getting a business phone number is a must as it is one of the first (and most used) methods an interested customer uses. Once a call is made, your team has the opportunity to convert the call into a sale and provide excellent customer service that makes the customer come back for more.
When creating your office phone system, there are a few things to take into consideration such as how to choose:
- What business phone system is right for you
- The type of business phone number(s) that will complement your needs
- What phones or softphones you’d like for placing and receiving calls
Choosing the Best Business Phone System
When you get a business phone number, it is important to invest in a business phone system that supports it. Choosing the right business phone system can be tricky if you do not know what is available. You want a phone system with call forwarding, recording, video conferencing, IVR systems, and more.
Most new businesses will first consider getting a traditional phone system. However, thanks to advancements in technology we can now use cloud phone systems that come equipped with multiple communication features and are more cost-effective.
A cloud phone system works through voice over IP (VoIP); that is, it uses the internet to send voice messages between two parties. This makes it possible to have multiple numbers on the same line, have remote offices connected through the same number, and more. No extra hardware or setup needed. You simply get a business phone number from a VoIP provider like Global Call Forwarding and start making calls using any device you want, anywhere in the world.
How to Pick the Right Business Phone Number Type?
Next, you must choose a business number most suitable for your needs. VoIP providers like Global Call Forwarding offer a variety of options. However, the ideal number for you depends on what you want to accomplish or achieve with it. Here are the different business telephone numbers we offer:
Local numbers
Local phone numbers have specific areas, cities, or states assigned. They have predetermined area codes that distinguish them from other number types. You can get a local number for any city or state you’d like to establish your business in.
Toll Free Numbers
Toll free numbers start with a 3-digit code such as 800, 888, 877, etc. Large and established corporations have been using toll free numbers for years as they tend to generate higher incoming call rates. This is because calling a toll free number is free for the caller. A toll free business number is easy to forward to any location.
International Toll Free Numbers
International toll free numbers (ITFN) give you access to customers and contacts in more than 160 countries across the world. This is a good option for businesses looking to enter new markets and provide global customer support. You can have incoming calls forwarded to your main office or remote offices through an international call forwarding service.
Vanity Numbers
These are great examples of vanity numbers: 1-800-TAXICAB or 1-800-FLA-BLUE. Vanity phone numbers use letters or patterns to create a more recognizable and memorable number.
Deskphones vs. Softphones?
Once you settle on a business phone service, you need to decide how you will handle incoming and outgoing calls. VoIP calls need an IP-based phone from brands like Cisco, Panasonic, etc., to function. A softphone or web dialer enables users to make and receive calls from their computer, laptop, tablet, or any device that is not a traditional desk phone.
Get a Business Phone Number
Now you know how business phone numbers work and what is involved in using a business phone system. To get business phone service from us, you can sign up on our homepage or contact sales at 1 (888) 908 6171.
