The general assumption is that free service numbers (0800) are mainly used by large organizations. After all, they have the budget to cover their customers’ call costs, or so we think. But is that really a logical assumption?

It turns out that many small business owners also successfully invest in an 0800 number. In this article, we explore the specific benefits of 0800 numbers for businesses like yours.

Benefit 1: Be Accessible

One of the advantages 0800 numbers have over 0900 numbers is the fact that they are free for callers. This lowers the threshold for them to pick up the phone. Even if they don’t call you directly, the 0800 number sends a clear signal. Potential customers are more likely to call you than companies with a paid phone number.

Benefit 2: Improve the Customer Experience

With a free number, potential customers can call you at no cost to ask questions before making a purchase. This allows them to get to know you without obligation. If their experience is positive, they’ll naturally move into your sales funnel. A good experience before purchase increases trust in post-purchase service, which can positively influence the buying decision. In short, an 0800 number significantly enhances the customer experience.

Benefit 3: A Service Number Grows with You

The number of callers doesn’t matter with a service number. The fixed monthly fee remains the same, allowing you to keep costs under control. A menu, a queue, and voice-to-email ensure that all calls are handled perfectly.

Benefit 4: Location Independence

Small businesses logically operate with a smaller team. The flexibility that a service number brings is therefore very welcome; in an instant, you can change the phone number where your callers are forwarded. And when your business grows or moves to a new location, you simply take your service number with you.

Benefit 5: Stand Out

Every company has a phone number, but how many small businesses can say they have a ‘free number’? In times when businesses have to fight to attract and retain customers, a detail like an 0800 service number can make all the difference. You positively distinguish yourself from companies with a local or 0900 number, where callers have to pay.

How to Choose a Provider

As you can see, 0800 numbers offer numerous benefits. You can register such a service number with various providers. Since you’ll likely stay with the same provider for a long time, it’s important to make a good choice. When selecting a provider for your service numbers, consider the following factors to ensure your number is in good hands:

  • Reputation How long has the current provider been active? Which well-known brands have chosen to register their service number with this provider? Do you know other entrepreneurs who have chosen this provider? References from reliable parties give you a clear idea of what to expect. Also, search online to see if there are any complaints about a particular provider.
  • Price What are the monthly costs? Are there any connection fees? How much do you pay per call minute when customers call your 0800 number? Is it possible to block nuisance callers to avoid unnecessary costs? Look beyond the spectacular offer and read the fine print.
  • Features A service number looks great, but you’ll get the most out of it with extra features. In the call statistics, you can see on which days and times you have the most callers. You can adjust staffing, the welcome message, and/or the menu accordingly. But how much do all these extras cost, or are they included for free? Do thorough research beforehand so you’re not unpleasantly surprised when your business grows quickly.
  • Service The sales pitch may be great, but is the provider still interested in you after you’ve paid the bill? Some providers seem to put all their energy into attracting new customers. Other providers owe their customers to revolutionary service. Can you call your provider for free with questions? Is there an online knowledge base with answers to frequently asked questions?

By doing your homework, you’ll get the most out of your provider and your service number. And if you encounter something that doesn’t sit well with you, don’t hesitate to speak up. A good service number provider constantly invests in its services and uses complaints and suggestions to serve its customers even better.