A virtual phone number is one way a small business can increase sales without sacrificing a large amount of profit. Virtual numbers are phone numbers that are purchased through a provider and then routed to an existing phone line, PBX system, or voicemail account.
Virtual phone numbers are purchased phone numbers that can be a local or toll-free number for customers to call. However, in this case we are going to focus on the advantages of a business using a virtual local number. For example, a small business looking to establish itself in New York could purchase a virtual phone number that has the area code (212) for Manhattan, and then forward calls made to this number to an office or mobile phone in another state. or even another country. This allows the business to stay in touch with customers 24/7, and also allows businesses to offer local residents a free way to call. Also, a local virtual number gives the impression that a business operates in a particular geographic location based on the area code, even if the business headquarters is quite far away.
While a common use for virtual phone number technology is to outsource helpdesk calls to places like India, a small business can also benefit from this technology if used correctly. A small business just starting to ship nationwide, or one that is located on the outskirts of a major metropolitan area, would do well to purchase a local number within the metropolis, as this will allow city dwellers to make a free call to the company both for information and to place orders. While the cost of the virtual phone number will be borne by the business rather than the consumer, it can be a worthwhile investment if the right market is chosen to advertise the number.
A business may also own multiple virtual local numbers, all of which can be routed to the same location. This can not only help a small business take advantage of multiple market options, but it will also allow them to appear much larger than their physical offices may suggest. A combination of virtual phone numbers, both local and toll-free, can project a professional image of a business that is not only successful and stable, but large. In addition, the options for menus and voicemail recordings on the virtual phone number can be tailored to make it appear as if the company has substantial resources at its disposal.
A virtual local number will also allow customers to contact a small business at any time of the day or night. With a significant time difference between the east and west coasts, a call made in one place can fall on deaf ears in the other, especially if there’s nowhere to leave a message and no one to talk to. A well-placed virtual phone number will encourage calls and allow information to be provided to callers at any time of day. Your calls, in turn, can be routed to a voicemail or email system for callback, or even through a landline or mobile phone.
