Although you can get any prefix you want, there are a few reasons why it's best to choose an 800 number if possible. Your phone service will offer you a range of options, but the classic 800 is best and here's why.
People Know It
Everyone knows the '800' prefix. It has become a fixture in our culture that tells people, 'You can call it for free!' Because it's well-known, it shows your business in a professional and established light. Some people may still feel unsure about a company that uses one of the other prefixes, but there's no doubt in their minds when they see an 800 number.Easier To Remember
In fact, choosing an alternate prefix can actually cost you in sales from new customers. The reason is that those prefixes are harder to remember. Most people will come into first contact with your company in a fleeting instant. They may be driving to work and hear the number on the radio; or, they may see the ad in a newspaper or magazine, or on a website they're visiting.Unless they clip the ad or bookmark the page, they're not likely to see it again. It's up to their memory to recall the prefix, and many of your potential customers are going to forget if it's not 800.
Marketing Surveys Show That 800 Performs
Marketing surveys conducted in recent years show that even though there are many more toll-free prefix options, people still buy more from 800 numbers. Although results are inconclusive about why this is exactly (something subconscious, maybe?), they do show clearly that 800 numbers outperform the others. However, it should be noted that the difference is only a few percent.The Disadvantages Of 800 Numbers
There are just two disadvantages of 800 numbers. One is that they cost more than the newer prefixes. This is because there's a limited supply left and they're going fast. Many businesses that would like an 800 number end up opting for an alternate prefix in the end because it's just not worth the cost to them.The other disadvantage is that, because 800 numbers are scarce, it's difficult to find a good one. You may not be able to find an 800 number with your company's name or a catchy logo that you can use. Meanwhile, alternate prefixes might have exactly what you want.
When you contact an 800 service provider to get started with your toll free number, you can always ask them about price and availability. Although an 800 number gets you slightly more creditability and possibly more sales, it may be better to choose a number that's more useful to you. Your 800 number provider can help you decide.
