Toll-free numbers may seem a little old school. Especially in today’s world of telecommunications, most companies are getting affordable long-distance calling and unlimited nationwide minutes. So why would you want to be paying for a toll-free number when you already have a number for cheaper?
While this is absolutely true, having a toll-free number is about far more than just giving customers free calls. It conveys an image and convenience beyond what a regular business phone number can provide.
According to the FCC, “Toll free numbers are telephone numbers with distinct three-digit codes that can be dialed from landlines with no charge to the person placing the call. Such numbers allow callers to reach businesses and individuals out of the area without being charged a long-distance fee for the call.”
Toll free numbers are particularly common for customer-service calling. Toll-free service has traditionally provided potential customers and others with a free and convenient way to contact businesses. Wireless callers, however, will get a charge for the airtime minutes they use during a toll free call unless they have an “unlimited calling” plan. Let’s take a look at 3 specific benefits of using a toll-free number.
Easy to Remember Toll-Free Area Codes
Toll-free numbers are generally easier to remember. Everyone knows the nationwide familiar toll-free area codes. Your toll-free number is customizable to your business, such as “1-800-TALK-2-US” or “1-888-SELL-NOW.” Having a vanity number like this can help customers and callers remember your number. They will get to avoid trying to look your number up online, which some people will not ever bother doing.
Think about some of the billboards or commercials you have seen. I bet you can rattle off a few phone numbers for company’s you’ve never interacted with. They look and sound like catchy numbers, and have a tendency to get stuck in people’s heads. Later down the road if you’re thinking about getting your carpets cleaned, the jingle with the easy to remember toll-free number is going to pop up, and make you give that company a call.
Toll free codes – 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 and 833.
Creates Both Local & Nationwide Presence
Utilizing a toll-free phone number is an easy way to convey a bigger presence. You can reach beyond a local area code, and create a recognizable area code that people nationwide will know. Using toll-free is great for businesses who want to advertise to a wider audience – giving their audience a feel that they can trust this company to perform no matter their location.
It is especially helpful if you market online. Customers want to know they’re dealing with a reputable company they can rely on, even after the sale. Toll-free service gives them the confidence you’re established enough to be there to answer questions.
Conveys Professionalism and Genuine Care
Most large companies today have toll-free numbers. By offering the same type of calling experience, a smaller company can create the perception that it’s a more robust and experienced company. By having a toll-free phone number, you make it easy, and always free, for your customers to call in. Your business is reassuring calling customers that you want them to call, and that you want their business. This encourages customers to call in with any questions or needs. Customer service and caring about your customers can truly make or break you in today’s business world. Enhancing this customer service and engagement can put your company above your competition in the same field and makes you look more professional and ready to help.