Whether starting a new business or scaling up an existing one, choosing a professional phone number and phone provider has never been easier. The internet has revolutionized the telephony industry, providing a wealth of options from free online phone numbers to full-featured phone services. Parsing the myriad different options can be daunting. Follow this simple guide to choose which type of phone service and number works best for your company.
2 Types of Phone Services
There are two types of internet phone services available to choose from:
- VOIP
These phone services live in the cloud and deliver data through your existing internet connection. Their basic plans are typically free and include such features as number porting, voicemail, and free nationwide calling. VOIP can also scale up as the business grows, adding video conferencing, in-office team communication, and application integration.
- Virtual Numbers
These phone services operate similarly to VOIP, and many are offered for free. Unlike true VOIP, virtual numbers are not tied to a single device. Instead, phone calls are routed to an existing phone line, such as a cell phone. You can be anywhere in the world and receive a call from your company’s professional phone number.
3 Types of Phone Numbers
Choosing the right phone number for your business is critical. Here are the three major types to consider.
- Local Numbers
These numbers include the standard local area codes common to the company’s region. Local customers are more likely to trust local area codes, but having a local number becomes restrictive as the business grows. Customers located out of the region may think twice about calling when they don’t recognize the area code.
- Toll-Free Numbers
Many toll-free number codes are available to choose from, including the traditional 1-800 prefix. Toll-free numbers project an air of stability and professionalism that builds trust with customers outside of the company’s immediate region. This is the common choice for large businesses.
- Vanity Numbers
Choosing a string of easy-to-remember digits is a popular choice to bring in customers. Like memorable song lyrics, a vanity number increases the odds that a customer will call the company when the need arises. Vanity numbers can be picked in both local and toll-free options.
Whether it’s a free virtual number or a business class plan with a personalized vanity number, choosing the right professional phone number depends on a company’s needs, now and in the future.