Starting your own business can be exciting and eventful. But once the customers start coming in, their satisfaction becomes a top priority.
Customer service starts with a business phone number that customers can call with questions or comments. While some business owners may choose to sign up for a toll-free number, others benefit from setting up a local area number.
But how do you know if a local number is right for your business? It’s vital to understand the advantages and disadvantages of a local area number. Here’s an inside look at what this type of number can do for your business.
First, let’s take a look at what sets a toll-free and local area number apart. They are both versions of a virtual phone system that utilizes internet connection and cloud technology. However, a local area number is unique to a specific area with a local area code. This allows potential local customers to recognize it easily.
On the other hand, toll-free numbers always start with an area code such as 1-888 or 1-877. The most crucial difference is that a toll-free number doesn’t cost anything for the customer to call.
There is more competition for toll-free numbers because they are easier to remember. But they’re also typically more expensive than local area numbers because of this exclusivity.
Both phone numbers have different benefits depending on what you want for your business. Here are the top six advantages of a local area number.
Many people choose to shop at small, local businesses over large corporations. By “shopping small,” they can help local businesses thrive and support their community.
Small businesses can tap into this initiative by using a local area number for their communications. You’re more likely to build a reliable local presence by using a number that community residents recognize.
While a toll-free number has its benefits, the 800 area code can look impersonal and cold. Local area numbers make your customers feel more connected to you and your services.
When you call a local area number, you’re more likely to expect friendlier customer service. You know that the business cares about maintaining a strong local presence and that they’ll listen to questions or complaints from the community they serve.
Consistency is one of the most important aspects of being a good business owner. Customers are more likely to trust you if you’re consistently available over the phone, regardless of your physical location.
For example, if a customer can’t find an answer to their question on your website, they’ll likely call a business phone number to get an answer quickly. That customer will be more likely to call if they see a local area number on your website. If you’re using an excellent virtual phone service, you’ll then be able to answer the customer’s question no matter where you’re located.
If you’re hoping to run a prominent business in your community, you’ll want to focus on your local marketing strategy. This includes excellent local SEO, curated social media accounts, and a well-designed Google My Business page.
Listing a local area number is an essential part of successful local advertising. It’s better to have a recognizable local number when targeting customers in a specific community.
Don’t forget that this number should be prominent on paper flyers, billboards, and promotional posters as well. A local number can be beneficial for your business regardless of the type of product you’re selling or the service you provide.
The best virtual phone companies offer a wide range of services to customers who sign up for a local area number.
These features include incoming call control, call forwarding, simultaneous call handling, and voicemail messages. Many virtual phone services also allow you to create a custom greeting or set up a virtual attendant. The goal is to provide top-of-the-line service even when you can’t pick up the phone or a customer is calling outside working hours.
It’s no secret that remote work is more common now than ever. Many business owners and employees find it more convenient and cost-effective to work from home.
If your team is working from home, it’s important to have a unified phone number where customers can call and reach someone. A local area number is an easy solution that allows simultaneous call handling for remote teams.
Whether you’re at the office or working in your bedroom, a virtual phone system lets you handle your business calls from anywhere.
You might think that a virtual phone system is difficult to set up and install, but it’s typically a straightforward process.
You first want to choose a reliable phone service provider and then select a local area number and subscription plan. After downloading the designated app to your devices, you can set up different features and configurations in mere minutes.
Once you choose a plan, you can start making and receiving calls on the same day. Many providers will also offer a free trial, so you can test out a local phone number and see if it’s the right decision for your business.
Unlike toll-free numbers, local area numbers have limited customization options. You will only be able to choose a local area code.
It’s also likely that your local area number will not be easy to remember. This isn’t a huge problem as most customers will write the number down, save it on their phone, or continue to look it up online when they need it.
While a toll-free number is free to the customer, local area numbers can cost the customer money. Most mobile phone companies offer unlimited minutes for phone calls, but some customers might run into this problem if they are using a different paid plan.
The foundation of any successful business starts with having a high-quality service or product to offer. But that doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be able to penetrate the market and become profitable.
It’s vital to have a clear line of communication with customers, such as a virtual phone system. If you choose a local area number, you can easily establish a local presence and build trust with the community.
Telephono allows you to set up a local area number in minutes, so you can start connecting with your customers today. Sign up for our free trial if you want to see a local area number in action.
Copyright 2021 Business Phone. All Rights Reserved.