You already know that service numbers give you the opportunity to create a professional and nationwide presence. Organizations that use and actively promote an 0800 number or 0900 number will see results almost immediately. But did you know you can take response and conversion to an even higher level? You can do this with a vanity number, which costs the same as a ‘regular’ service number.

A vanity number is essentially a regular service number. The difference is that the numbers spell out a word using the letters on the phone keypad. A good example is 0800-BELFABRIEK. In reality, this is the number 0800-2353227, but using a word makes it much easier to remember. Smart organizations leverage this feature in their campaigns.

How to Use a Vanity Number in a Campaign

There are various types of vanity numbers to consider. The examples below show that registering a company name as a service number isn’t always the most logical choice, and we’ll help you make the right decision for your situation.

  • Your Company Name as a Vanity Number: The most obvious solution, especially when your organization’s name is between 7 and 10 letters long—long enough to form a vanity number and short enough for callers to remember easily. If your company name is shorter, you can solve this by adding something about your phone service. Creative solutions include Canon’s 0800-CANON4U and supermarket chain Lidl’s 0800-LIDLINFO.
  • A Nod to Your Slogan: Use a keyword or concept from your campaign, such as a phrase in your slogan, to effortlessly link your organization to a vanity number. For example, Nike could use 0800-JUSTDOIT.
  • Link Your Company to a General Concept: You can also choose a general word or product category that sets your organization apart from the competition. For example, whoever registered 0900-PIZZERIA will have no trouble getting customers to remember the number. At the time of writing, we see a golden opportunity for a bridal wear specialist: 0900-BRUIDSJURK (bridal gown) is still available! If you offer a solution to a problem, you can register either a negative term, like 0800-AUTOSCHADE (car damage), or a positive term, like 0800-REPARATIE (repair). You can determine which works best by analyzing your website’s search results. Use tools like Google Analytics or Webmaster Tools to see which search terms are most used by your site visitors.

Up to 60% Higher Response Rates

Part of the appeal of vanity numbers is that they are still relatively new in the Netherlands. A vanity number is initially unusual and surprising, but the next thought from potential customers is often: “I know how that works!” This way, vanity numbers encourage people to call.

Because vanity numbers are so easy to remember and people enjoy calling such numbers, they lead to more calls to a service number. Various studies show that response rates can be up to 60% higher when an organization uses a vanity number in a campaign. Imagine what this could mean for your campaign…

Secure Your Vanity Number Now

As you can see, vanity numbers have great potential. Think carefully about words that make your vanity number memorable and maximize response rates. With humor or creativity, you’ll undoubtedly succeed. Then, you can easily register the number online with Belfabriek, enjoying a comprehensive package of extra features.