What are Virtual Phone Numbers?
In a nutshell, virtual telephone numbers exist to provide
callers with local or toll-free telephone numbers that will automatically
forward calls to any one of the pre-set telephone numbers designated by the
business. This is especially helpful for businesses who want to enjoy a
national presence but cater to each location individually.
Local Telephone
Numbers
The most common use for virtual phone numbers is to provide
consumers in one location with the ability to dial a local telephone number in
order to reach a long-distance destination. For instance, if a company based in
New York City wants to cater to people living in San Francisco, they can easily
purchase a local telephone number and forward it to any number they choose.
Businesses can purchase as many local telephone numbers as they would like and
each of these can be forwarded to the same location—or separate locations, if
there are regional offices throughout the country. There is no cost to the
consumer to dial a local number, making this a wonderful alternative to a
single localized number.
Toll Free Telephone
Numbers
Toll-free telephone numbers are another example of virtual
phone numbers that can certainly be helpful. Consumers are never charged to
dial a toll free number, and like local virtual numbers, these calls can be
forwarded to any telephone the business designates. Some of the benefits of
using a toll-free virtual telephone number include saving consumers money,
making the business seem more professional, and providing a single number for
consumers all over the country to dial when they are in need of products and
services.
Vanity Telephone
Numbers
Perhaps one of the most widely used virtual phone numbers in
existence today, vanity telephone numbers provide all of the benefits of a
toll-free number, but they also make the number more memorable. These numbers
allow a business to spell out their brand name or another phrase with the
alphanumeric characters on a standard telephone dial pad. Nearly everyone can
recite at least one or two telephone numbers associated with nationwide
businesses, and they can also agree that if they are ever in need of the
services these companies provide, they would be inclined to dial the memorized
telephone number as opposed to sifting through the Yellow Pages or internet
directories.
Info Hotlines and
More
Virtual phone numbers are a great way for businesses to
promote themselves through the use of information hotlines. In short, a
business may choose to pre-record several messages for playback when a consumer
calls in. This way, instead of paying agents to be at the ready for incoming
calls, the message is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week—without an
operator or agent standing by. Of course, consumers who are truly interested in
the product or service will be able to speak with an agent during normal
business hours or leave a message if no one is available; instant notifications
of incoming voicemail messages are a great way to manage telephone calls.
There are many reasons why virtual phone numbers can help a business succeed. Aside from providing consumers with
local or toll-free numbers, they can also work as a marketing tactic. Any
business with a desire to grow and succeed should consider using one or more of
these virtual numbers.
