A toll-free number is a number that can receive an unlimited number of calls at the same time and redirect them to any device according to a set algorithm. Such solutions have a wide range of possibilities. By ordering a toll-free number, you can use the functions of a virtual PBX (private branch exchange) for free.
Toll-free is a multichannel direct number that provides users with a convenient set of services and functions. Depending on the served region, toll-free codes differ. For example, toll free UK numbers start with +44800, US virtual numbers have the +1800 code, etc. At the same time, the number and PBX are not tied to the actual location of the office, which means they will not change when moving.
You can connect to a virtual PBX and the numbers configured on it through the Internet connection. Its difference from an on-premise PBX is that it does not need expensive equipment, its installation, and maintenance. Users can manage the system themselves through a secure Internet connection and a convenient interface.
How do Virtual Numbers and PBX work?
The sequence of operation is the following:
- A call comes into a multichannel number;
- The call goes to a virtual PBX. The client hears a voice greeting and an offer to press a certain number for a more accurate call redirection (if an IVR is installed; otherwise, the call is forwarded according to a specific scenario configured on the PBX);
- Then, if an extension is already busy, the call is directed to another extension. Or it may be forwarded to a phone number (landline or mobile).
The main functions performed by virtual systems are call forwarding, hold, or transfer to another phone, as well as the ability to call several numbers at once (group call). The “call tag” function allows users to program keys for specific call targets to classify them and track the effectiveness of certain campaigns. The functions for creating a voice greeting and setting a call routing scenario are intuitive for users.
Advantages and Opportunities for Businesses
- Enlarging business geography by exploring new markets and entering new regions for cooperation.
- A company always stays in touch. The system can simultaneously receive and process as many calls as you need, and if it is not possible to answer the call, the client can listen to a voice message, leave a feedback request, or send a fax. To reduce the waiting time, the call can go to several phones at once.
- Improving customer loyalty. The process of communication with clients is convenient and effective. They do not have to hang in the line for minutes. Only one number could be used to process dozens of incoming calls. Additionally, a call could be simply redirected to a mobile or landline phone with a different number or a SIP phone.
- The ease of management and setting up the PBX makes it possible to organize a specific scenario for an incoming call. For example, different voice messages are designed for customers from different regions, days of the week, times of day, etc. (you can also block or restrict calls from specific numbers by adding them to a blacklist and anti-spam folders).
- Numbers are available throughout the world.
- Stability, since the phone number will remain with the company even after moving to another office or changing mobile operator.
- A single communication unit for multiple offices.
- Savings on long-distance and international communications (roaming) up to 90%.
- Monitoring the work of employees and the return on marketing activities. It is possible to control the work of a department as a whole and an employee in particular by recording conversations, examining the quality of ongoing promotions, advertising campaigns, etc. through the classification, and the analysis of calls.
- Ability to receive a fax to e-mail, send a voice message to e-mail and organize conference calls.
- Confidentiality of your location and personal phone numbers. Besides, the “authorization” function involves entering a code to connect, for example, with management or certain services.
- Enhance your image and credibility with a beautiful phone number.
Benefits for Customers
- the feeling of stability (phone number does not change);
- toll-free numbers are easy to remember;
- it is easy to find one number in the contact list and call the right person (a secretary, a director, the head of the department) or the right department;
- the client will not hear the busy beeps and won’t hand on the line for dozens of minutes;
- numbers are free for clients to call. All calls, even incoming, are paid by business owners.
Virtual numbers are an excellent solution that allows bringing the “manager-client” communication to a higher level. This, in its turn, leads to increased customer loyalty and other entailed benefits. Thus, purchasing a toll-free number will help businesses get closer to their target audiences and improve provided services.
