Toll-free numbers can be a cost-effective way to keep your telecommunication bills low. Depending on the size of your business, you may find it advantageous to have a toll-free number and have been looking for one for a while. So how do you find a toll-free number and what makes it such a good option for your business? This article will explore this topic and provide some details to help you choose.
Your Business May Need a Toll-Free Number!
The Benefits of Toll-Free Numbers
Most major businesses across Canada use toll-free numbers because it allows their customers to make calls without having to incur any fees. Large companies such as Bell or Rogers use toll-free numbers for their customer service simply because of the sheer number of requests they receive daily. This ease of access and lack of payment makes it more likely for customers to contact and receive a sense of higher quality service.
Not only will a toll-free number make it easier for your customers to contact you, but it will also make your business look more professional. Large companies with strong brand presence rely on their image to attract and retain customers, and a toll-free number can help support this. Inn terms of branding, you can even obtain a toll-free number with “vanity” customization. For example, Ikea uses their own brand name in their client services number (4532, or IKEA). This type of customization can allow your customers to think about your company and reinforce your brand. Finally, the larger your business is, the more effective a toll-free number will be in unifying your image. Large international companies may have multiple locations across the globe, so when they employ a tollfree number, it creates a central hub for all customers to connect to. This can also help create a larger presence for your business and convey a sense of reach beyond your local area.
Should You Use a Toll-Free Number?
The answer to this question will ultimately depend on the size of your business and your desired reach. Do you have ambitions of creating a global business with outreach beyond your city, country, and continent? Or do you want to focus on the local market and spend your time targeting customers in your area? You should also look at the scope of your business as it currently stands. Single locations with little to no international callers will find less use from toll-free numbers compared to a traditional set up.
What Features Should You Look For?
When it comes to your toll-free number, you should be on the lookout for several different features each provider has to offer. These may include:
- Caller ID
- Voice Mail
- Call Forwarding
- Auto-Attendant
- International Incoming Calls
- Outbound Calling
- Video Conferencing
- Smartphone Apps
- Call Analytics
- Built-In Hold Music
- Call Recording/Transcription
- Call Blocking
- SMS Compatibility
Be sure to look at the features on offer before you make your decision. For example, does your business need a smartphone app and video conferencing packaged with your toll-free number? You can easily reduce the cost of your toll-free number by removing features that you have no use for. Ask your provider what options are available to you and go from there!
Save More With VOIP
With Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP), toll-free numbers are now more affordable than ever. Instead of keeping your phones at a single physical location, you can use any device at anytime, anywhere. This will boost your productivity by a significant margin and help maximize the scale of your telecommunications. Most VOIP solutions are also extremely customizable so that you can create a seamless experience for your customers.
Are you looking to use a toll-free number for your business? Hire a professional cost management company like Watchdog Management Solutions to help you find the best deals and features that your business can use! Get in touch today and start saving now!
