In the initial stages of starting a new business journey, naming your business and designing a logo may be thrilling but selecting a business phone number plays an equally pivotal role in determining your business’s success. It’s a highly important component of your brand identity.

A business phone number is a dedicated telephone number associated with a specific business or organisation. It serves as a contact point for customers, clients, and other stakeholders to communicate with the business. Business phone numbers can be local or toll-free, and they are often used for various purposes, including customer inquiries, orders, appointments, and general business related communication. Having a distinct business phone number helps establish a professional and organised image for the company and facilitates effective communication with external parties.

Whether opting for a cell phone or an office phone system, the process of obtaining a business phone number can quickly become massive once you dive into the details.

In this blog, you will find 10 pro tips for choosing the perfect business phone number that will help you make a lasting impression. By following these expert tips, you will not only choose a business phone number that reflects your brand identity but also strategically aligns with your business objectives, ensuring a positive and memorable customer experience. 

1. Table of Contents

   Early adoption for long-term success

• Initiate the process before advertising to avoid costly changes later on.
• Plan strategically to ensure your chosen number aligns with future business growth.
• Consider scalability, anticipating potential expansions or relocations.

2. Prioritise necessary features

• Assess your business communication needs and select a number that supports essential features like voicemail, conference calling, and extensions.
• Explore additional features offered by different phone number options, such as call analytics or integration with customer relationship management (CRM) systems.

3. Explore diverse options

• Consider a range of options, from free services like Google Voice to local, toll-free, and vanity numbers.
• Evaluate the unique advantages each type of number offers for your specific business needs.
• Research user reviews and experiences with different services to inform your decision.

4. Simplicity is the key

• Opt for simplicity by choosing a number with repeating digits or a recognisable pattern.
• Leverage human memory patterns to make your number easy for potential customers to recall.
• Avoid overly complex or lengthy numbers that may be difficult to remember.

5. Register to your business name

• Prevent potential spam labelling by registering your business number under the business name.
• Enhance legitimacy and increase the likelihood of your calls being answered.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding business phone number registration.

6. Define clear objectives for your number

• Identify whether your goal is to establish local presence, national credibility, or enhance brand awareness.
• Align your number selection with your business objectives for optimal impact.
• Consider the demographics of your target audience and how your number may resonate with them.

7. Strategic area code selection

• Choose an area code strategically, considering whether it aligns with the location perception you want to create for your business.
• If on the outskirts of a city, selecting a local area code can foster a sense of proximity.
• Research area codes to understand regional associations and choose one that resonates with your target market.

8. Explore alternative toll-free codes

• Investigate alternative toll-free codes such as 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888 if the classic 1-800 option is not available.
• Maintain the benefits of a toll-free number while expanding your availability options.
• Compare pricing structures and additional services provided by different toll-free code options.

9. Creativity in vanity number selection

• Get creative with your vanity number selection, considering unique combinations that resonate with your brand.
• Overcome availability challenges by exploring imaginative alternatives to popular choices.
• Conduct a trademark search to ensure that your chosen vanity number is not already in use or protected by another business.

10. Thorough testing before sharing

• Before incorporating your new number into business materials, conduct thorough testing.
• Ensure all features, including voicemail and conferencing, are functioning as intended, addressing any issues promptly.
• Consider gathering feedback from a focus group or trusted colleagues to ensure a positive user experience.

Summing up

The selection of a business phone number emerges as a pivotal determinant of success in the early stages of a new entrepreneurial journey. Beyond the excitement of naming and branding, the chosen number becomes a vital element of brand identity, serving as a direct link for customers and stakeholders. 

Whether opting for a local or toll-free number, the decision-making process involves strategic planning, prioritising necessary features, and exploring diverse options. Simplicity, registration under the business name, and a defined objective align with the goal of fostering a professional and organised image. Strategic area codes, alternative toll-free options, and creative vanity number selections further contribute to a memorable brand presence. Thorough testing before sharing ensures seamless interactions, solidifying the foundation for positive customer experiences and long-term business success. 

Wavetel Business is a telecommunications solution provider committed to delivering seamless and innovative business phone services, offering a range of options from local and toll-free numbers to advanced features for effective communication and professional brand image.