With the ease of smartphones making email and social media readily accessible, does your startup really need a business phone number in this day and age?
The simple answer is: Yes. Even if you see everyone around you turning to the internet for most needs, there are still plenty of people who prefer good old-fashioned phone calls. Still not convinced? If you need more proof, then look no further. Here are eight reasons why every startup needs a business line.
1. Everything Looks Official
In a world full of spam and robocalls, a startup with a dedicated business phone number can stand apart from listings that appear untrustworthy. If a client is in a pinch to find information and it comes down to two companies, he or she will likely choose the one that looks more professional. In nearly all cases, it is the place that has a number for clients to call. Ask yourself, which would you pick? The answer is easy.
2. You Seem Reliable
Have you ever bought something that turned out to be a bad product, only to find there was no way to contact customer support? You do not want to be that business. Providing customers with a business number tells them they have a direct way to contact you. This makes you appear more reliable than a simple email or social media account. If people know they can contact you, it makes it seem like you stand by your product.
3. Business Phone Number Improves SEO
One way search engines like Google determine the authenticity of a business listing is by looking at whether a website lists a business phone number. When it comes to local SEO rankings, having a business phone will also be useful because it will help search engines determine where your location is.
4. You Have Options
If you worry about the hassle of calling a phone carrier to come out and set up a wired phone line for your business, you can rest easy. Today, you have many options. The best part? None of them require a physical connection. Instead, startups can enjoy the convenience of a virtual business phone number.
5. It Protects Your Privacy
You want to connect with potential customers as much as possible, but they also need to be limited. Owning a business does not give the world the right to know your personal contact information. If you have a separate line for all of your business dealings, you can limit the amount of personal information you have to share with customers. You should reserve your personal line for friends, family, and other personal matters.
✋ Warning
📱 One cell phone, multiple numbers! Learn how to manage your personal & professional life with ease in our step-by-step guide 🚀
6. Business Phone Number Keeps Work Separate
When you have your own business, keeping your personal and work lives separate not only protects your privacy but also improves overall efficiency and reduces stress. Having a phone line dedicated to your business will help you establish a necessary boundary between each part of your life. You will not have to worry about taking work calls during special family events or personal calls during important client meetings.
7. Customers Can Connect
Believe it or not, many people still prefer using the telephone over any other means of communication. Why? The directness of a phone call has a lot to do with it. When someone has questions, it is often easier to simply make a call rather than to wait around and see if someone responds to an email or Facebook post. Think about it: How many times have you called a business with questions before you tried tracking them down online? Social media has a significant influence on daily lives, but it is not always the quickest communication for business dealings.
8. Business Phone Number Gives You Control
When startups first launch, it is common practice to have employees communicate with customers via personal cell phones. If you have a business phone number, you will be able to have some control over employee-customer interactions. This will allow you to provide better customer service.
Even though technology continues to change and advance, the telephone remains a top pick. If you have been wondering whether your company needs its own phone system, it is safe to assume it does. A dedicated business phone can help in many ways.
