A business’s phone number can be an essential part of the brand identity. The first step is having a business phone number that is separate from your personal one. Next, you can choose a premium, local number that is easy to remember or opt for a toll-free number to give your business extra credibility.
All businesses need a secure and reliable business phone system to communicate with customers, employees and vendors. A virtual phone number is a cost effective and feature rich solution that helps to expand a business’s communication capabilities.
If you’ve ever contacted a company support center for product support, chances are you were connected through a virtual phone number for information.
What is a Virtual Phone Number?
A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not directly attached to a single, fixed phone line. Instead, incoming calls are forwarded to a pre-set number of phone lines, which can be either mobile, landlines, or VoIP. However, the specific device each call goes to is determined on the spot. Because of this way of call routing, virtual phone numbers offer both improved flexibility and better-quality concealment. Virtual phone numbers are much more difficult to trace than regular phone numbers, and since they are not tied to a set location, businesses can use them to route calls to soft phones, mobile phones, and Vol desk phones as they see fit as well as select their own area codes.
Traditional phone systems can be difficult to set up. They typically require complex on-site equipment that a specialist will need to configure. Overall, the setting up of a traditional phone system can be an extensive attempt. On the other hand, virtual phone systems don’t involve the same complexities and obstacles that traditional phone systems face. To set up a virtual phone, all you need is an internet connection and a device to use as your phone. That device can be anything from a computer, to a cell phone, to a dedicated VolP desktop phone.
Features of a Virtual Phone Number
Virtual phone numbers open many opportunities for businesses wanting to separate their personal and work-related calls. Furthermore, some businesses invest in these services to start a local presence in a certain key area. Here are the reasons switching to virtual phone numbers is a good step for your business:
Call Recording
Allows one to record calls, monitor them and make better and effective business decisions.
Call Queuing
Enables one to put customers in a virtual queue in case agents are busy. Till the customer is connected, one can play a tone or a recording.
Smart Call Routing
The automated call distribution feature automatically redirects the customers’ calls to the right agents based on their needs.
Call Differentiation
The service helps in the division between professional and personal calls even on the same device.
Customizable
Enables one to completely customize the system to support business needs.
Call Forwarding
Enables one to forward calls to multiple numbers depending on the usage.
Parallel Ringing
Helps to ensure that no calls are missed by parallelly ringing all the agents simultaneously.
IVR
Offers your customers a seamless experience every time they call you by using IVR.
Call Reporting
Get detailed analytics on all the campaigns you run with data on the status of each call.
How Does it Work?
A virtual phone number, also known as direct inward dialing (DID) number, depends on the internet to connect callers, in contrast to traditional phone lines that need cell towers or a copper wire network. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a physical address to place calls. A virtual phone service uses voice-over-internet-protocol (VolP) technology that connects calls over the internet while enabling you to reach other users using standard telephones.
Virtual phone numbers follow the same traditional number format: local numbers have 10 digits, including the three-digit area code followed by the phone number. They are purchased without a physical address that’s bound to the corresponding area code, giving businesses the appearance of a local presence in a certain geographic region.
To begin using a virtual phone number, you require a stable internet connection and a compatible device, such as a desktop, cell phone, or laptop. Through a virtual phone service, users have access to the similar telephony features of traditional phone service, such as an automated attendant, custom greetings, voicemail, and call forwarding. Additionally, users can also enjoy diverse kinds of virtual phone numbers, including local, vanity, and toll-free numbers.
One of the major advantages of having a virtual phone number is the ability to divert calls to whichever device you wish to receive them, whether it’s your computer, desk phone, or mobile device. Since virtual numbers aren’t bound to a physical location, this largely benefits remote employees wanting to make calls anywhere in the world. With a virtual phone number, you’ll never have to worry about missing a call.
A virtual phone number is an effective way to establish a professional image for your business without tying you to a specific location. It offers VoIP features, such as automated attendant and call forwarding and the flexibility to handle your remote workforce. With a virtual phone system, it’s simple to search for low-cost plans and virtual phone numbers to differentiate your work and personal lives. Connect with SPARK Services today!
SPARK is a computer, voice, and web company dedicated to bringing you the best in web design, networking, and computer-related services. If you are looking for reliable customer service, dependability, trust, and a cost-effective solution to your needs, get in touch with us. The expert services of our dedicated team of professionals are always at your disposal.
We also offer specialized PBX phone system plans tailored to your specific requirements, allowing you to make changes on the go, making it easier for your business to scale. We aim to offer you the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you’ve made a smart and well-informed decision.