Your business’ phone number is typically the first point-of-contact that customers will have with your organisation.
Though the process of getting your business phone number is quite simple, consideration needs to be taken when it comes time to choose the phone number that will represent your business.
There are different types of numbers with varying costs and services available to businesses and so - in order to choose the right number for your business - it’s important to first understand your options.
Types of Business Phone Numbers:
Toll Free vs Local
**Toll Free**
Toll free telephone numbers allow callers to call your business for free while you - the recipient are responsible for the bill.
Why Choose a Toll Free Business Number?
The biggest advantage of choosing a toll free number is that by removing the costs of calling - customers will be more inclined to contact your business.
The benefits of choosing a toll free business number:
- Convey a larger-scale, national image.
- Easy to get - As area codes are limited.
- Excellent for marketing.
- Provide business credibility.
**Local**
Local business numbers include an area code - telephone prefix - and a line number.
Businesses get their local numbers through local phone companies and VoIP number providers.
Why Choose a Local Business Number?
Most businesses opt for local numbers as they provide a sense of familiarity to customers - making them feel local and in-turn, trustworthy.
The benefits of choosing a local business number:
- Give a hometown - familiar image.
- Provide local impression - whether a physical presence or not.
- Project trustability.
Consider Vanity Numbers
Vanity numbers are customisable and can be either local or toll-free. These business numbers are unique in that when dialled on a keypad - they spell out certain words that make them easier to remember.
Advantages of Vanity Numbers:
- Increase brand awareness.
- Easy to remember - easy for customers to make contact.
Disadvantages of Vanity Numbers:
- Can be difficult to create - as most common terms for vanity numbers are already registered.
- The more memorable your vanity number - the more expensive it will be to purchase.
Tips For Choosing Your Business Phone Number:
*Keep it simple - The more random or complicated your number - the tougher it will be for customers to remember.
*Come up with some options before chatting to your
phone service provider - they can then search for your chosen combinations availability.
*Get creative when choosing vanity numbers - look for related or similar terms.
If you’re still not sure how to go about getting your business phone number, be sure to
contact us at X Corp - We’re here to simplify your business communications.
