Phone contact is one of the most effective channels for attracting and retaining customers. A service number is essential for companies that take their phone activities seriously, but it doesn’t stop there.

Registering such a service number doesn’t automatically result in more callers. So what does? Last month, we already shared tips for more callers. In this new article, we delve deeper into these tips and provide new suggestions.

Do You Meet the Basic Requirements?

Before we proceed, let’s review the ‘rules of the game.’ First, ask yourself if you already meet these basic requirements:

  • You have an easy-to-remember service number with 7 digits, a short service number with 4 digits, or a vanity number.
  • You’ve set call rates to encourage callers to pick up the phone. You can easily change the rate on the settings page in Mijn Belfabriek.
  • You welcome callers with a recorded message and a simple menu.
  • During closing hours or busy times, your digital answering machine allows them to leave a message that you and your staff can listen to at a convenient time. This is also easy to change on the settings page in Mijn Belfabriek.

These are entirely within your control and easy to set up. That’s why they are the basic requirements for a successful service number. With the seven actions below, you’ll achieve maximum inbound call volume.

1. Ensure You’re Easy to Find Online

Everyone has internet these days. Instead of using a physical phone book or directory, we type directly into Google what we’re looking for. If someone is searching for your phone number, it should be easy to find. In a previous article, we emphasized this importance, but we’re happy to repeat this tip. So:

  • Place your service number prominently on your homepage and individual pages. A good spot is in the header, near your logo. Repeat the number, possibly accompanied by your address, in the footer of your website.
  • The contact page of your website should also include your service number. Search engines like Google index this page, so it will attract relatively many visitors. If you’re reachable via multiple phone numbers, explain which number serves which purpose.
  • Add the number to your blog, if your company has one. A logical spot is as high as possible in the sidebar.

2. Every Email Counts

Even the smallest companies send dozens of emails daily. And every email without your service number is a missed opportunity. Make sure to use an email signature that includes your service number. Your slogan or mission can further encourage recipients to call you.

3. Use Social Media

It’s well-known that companies can greatly benefit from social media. Take advantage of the opportunities it offers and add your service number to your profiles on LinkedIn and Twitter. Other ideas:

  • In the info box of your company page on Facebook, you can include your service number. Facebook recently relaxed its strict rules regarding information in cover photos. A great opportunity to also mention your service or vanity number there.
  • Put your business on the map in Foursquare. This allows customers with smartphones to call you with one click.

4. Be Social Offline Too

Even in the ‘real world,’ you’ll have plenty of opportunities to promote your service number. Nothing is more convincing than hearing: “You can call us for free on our service number.” Of course, your service numbers are prominently featured on your business cards near your logo.

5. Advertise Your Number in Print

Update your printed communication materials with your service number. In advertisements, brochures, leaflets, and even on the cards accompanying your corporate gifts. If you have a vanity number, mention it prominently. Such a number is easy to remember and very suitable for ads, billboards, and posters.

6. From Google Directly to Your Service Number

Did you know that Google allows you to add ‘call extensions’ to your AdWords ads? This means that searchers, including current and potential customers, can call you directly from their computer or tablet with one click.

7. Experiment and Improve

To get more callers, it’s important that they are satisfied with your service. How do you find out? By asking them and constantly adjusting your service. This may mean experimenting occasionally to see what works and what doesn’t. Have your staff ask callers what they think of the new approach, or use our Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system for this. Don’t hesitate to ask callers how long they had to wait and their opinion on the service provided.