How to get a unique phone number

A memorable phone number sticks with customers in a way that few communication or ad channels can.

And it’s easier than ever to find a unique number that helps your brand. Vanity numbers are fully customizable, allowing the user to create a unique phone number for any industry.

This post will show you how to do it.

What is a Business Phone Number?

A business phone number is a dedicated line used exclusively for professional purposes. Unlike a personal phone number, it serves as a central hub for handling business-related tasks such as reaching out to clients, following up with leads, and streamlining internal communication among team members.

Why is a Business Phone Number Important?

1. Professionalism: Using a dedicated business number projects a professional image and enhances customer trust. It reassures clients and partners that they are dealing with a legitimate enterprise.
2. Organization: Keeping business interactions separate from personal ones helps maintain clear boundaries. This organization is crucial for maintaining focus and ensuring that no important business contact is missed.
3. Scalability: As your business grows, a business number can easily be scaled to include features like call routing, voicemail, and automated responses, allowing for efficient communication management.
4. Privacy: Protect your personal information by keeping your personal number private. This significantly reduces the risk of unwelcome intrusions into your personal life.
5. Enhanced Features: Many business numbers offer additional functionalities. These can include call analytics, integration with CRM systems, and the ability to send texts and multimedia messages, offering comprehensive tools for communication management.

By using a business phone number, not only do you streamline communication, but you also enhance the overall efficiency and professional image of your business.

Why you need a unique phone number:

The simplest reason for getting a unique phone number is this: memorability. Using distinctive digits will enhance phone number recall for sales leads and existing clients.

A well designed phone number boosts brand recognition, instantly differentiating you from the competition. It creates continuity and consistent messaging across all of your outreach campaigns. 

Some vanity phone numbers even double as a call to action, like 610-2-RETIRE or 800-GET-WELL.

How Local Numbers Can Elevate Your Business

Local numbers are much more than just a sequence of digits; they are strategic tools for businesses looking to deepen their connection with regional markets. So, how can they specifically benefit your business?

Establishing a Regional Connection

• Familiarity and Trust: Local phone numbers often include an area code that resonates with the community. This familiarity can enhance trust, as customers are more inclined to engage with businesses they perceive as part of their local network.
• Improved Access: Local numbers can help businesses cement a regional presence without needing a physical location. This can be crucial for startups or expanding enterprises who want to tap into new markets efficiently.

Economic Advantages

• Cost-Effectiveness: Depending on the VoIP provider you select, acquiring local numbers can often be more economical than toll-free or international numbers. This can mean lower operational costs, particularly for businesses operating in multiple regions.
• Availability and Flexibility: Many VoIP providers offer a wide range of area codes, increasing the likelihood of obtaining desirable numbers in sought-after locations. This flexibility allows businesses to easily adapt to market demands or strategic shifts.

Overall, local numbers provide businesses with a reliable way to secure customer trust, expand outreach, and manage expenses. By leveraging these benefits, companies can enhance their communication strategies and strengthen customer relationships.

Tips for choosing a unique phone number  

Before beginning your search, use these simple tactics to pick your own phone number that will stand out in your customers’ minds.

1. Be specific to your brand - the best vanity phone numbers communicate clearly and concisely who you are and what you do. 
2.  Consider a call to action - a well-designed phone number can double as a call to action, giving leads clear next steps down the sales funnel (eg. 800-GET-HELP.)
3. Optimize for memorability - best done by keeping it simple. Pick a short phrase or repeating digits that are easy to say, spell, and dial.
4. Avoid hybrid numbers - choose either numbers or letters, a combo of both will detract from your messaging and memorability.
5. Flex your creativity - if your first, or second choices are already spoken for, a little bit of a creative spark will help you broaden your search.

How to get a unique new number

You don’t need any specialized knowledge to find your perfect phone number with RingBoost. Here’s a step-by-step on how to do it: 

Step 1: Pick a number

When choosing a phone number for your business, it's essential to understand the different types available, each serving unique purposes and benefits.

Local Numbers

Local numbers are 10-digit numbers tied to a specific geographic area. Why consider local numbers?

• Community Presence: A local area code, like 917 or 347 for New York, helps create a sense of familiarity and trust with local customers.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Depending on your provider, local numbers can be more budget-friendly and readily available.

Toll-Free Numbers

Toll-free numbers, starting with prefixes like 800 or 833, shift the cost of calls from the caller to the business. They are perfect when:

• Broad Reach Needed: Your business caters to customers throughout the US or Canada.
• Brand Expansion: If expanding internationally, toll-free numbers can help maintain accessibility.

Note: Some customers might consider calls from toll-free numbers as spam, so pairing with a local number might be beneficial.

Vanity Numbers

Vanity numbers combine the functionality of toll-free numbers with a memorable twist. The digits spell out a word or phrase, like 1-800-FLOWERS, making it easy for customers to remember. Consider vanity numbers when:

• Brand Identity: You want your number to easily convey your product or service.
• Memorability: A catchy phone number can significantly enhance brand recall.

However, remember that vanity numbers can be costly, which might not fit into all business budgets.

Step 2: Purchase

Once you have your new number picked out, all you need is a credit card to secure it. RingBoost also accepts ApplePay and Google Pay on all devices for a fast, convenient checkout.

Step 3: Port, park, or pick a plan

Completing the process will require you to make a decision about how you want to receive calls. You have three options:

• Port: This means moving it from the carrier that owns the number, to yours. After checkout, you’ll receive simple instructions on how to initiate it with the help of your carrier. It can take a few days, so having a plan in the interim is crucial to avoid missed communications.
• Pick a plan: RingBoost offers several call forwarding plans. This also works well as a temporary solution while you wait for your new number to be ported.
• Park: If you’ve found your prize but aren't ready to make the switch just yet, parking allows you to purchase it and keep it for a fraction of the cost of a plan.

When comparing various VoIP service providers, a few crucial factors should guide your decision to ensure you select the best option for your needs. Here’s a step-by-step approach to making an informed choice:

1. Determine Your Needs and Preferences

Begin by identifying the specific features your business or personal needs. Consider whether you require:

• Local or Toll-Free Numbers: Some providers offer these as part of their basic plans, while others might charge extra.
• International Calling: Ensure the provider supports countries you need to call frequently.
• Integration Capabilities: If your business uses apps like Slack, Google Workspace, or others, check if they can be integrated with your VoIP service.

2. Evaluate Pros and Cons of Popular Providers

Once you know what you need, list out the advantages and limitations of popular providers:

• Call Handling Features: Look for advanced options like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, or auto-attendant functions.
• Restrictions: Be mindful of limits on text messages or toll-free minutes, which could incur additional charges.
• Hardware Compatibility: Consider if you plan to use existing desk phones or need to rent from the provider.

3. Cost Analysis

analyze the cost-effectiveness of each provider:

• Base Plans and Pricing: Compare how much you pay per user, noting any tier-specific features and benefits.
• Overage Charges: Check for any additional costs for exceeding limits on calls or text messages.
• Scalability: Consider if the pricing structure supports business growth, offering features like additional numbers at reasonable costs.

4. Assess Key Features and Special Tools

Identify unique features offered by each provider to determine how they align with your communication strategy:

• Call and Text Options: Some services may limit messages per plan, whereas others offer unlimited options.
• Voicemail Management: Ensure you have access to features like visual voicemail and call recording.
• Collaboration Tools: Features like shared phone numbers or contact center capabilities can be crucial depending on team interactions.

5. User Experience and Support

Don’t overlook the importance of a seamless user experience and adequate customer support:

• Ease of Setup and Use: Check how user-friendly the platform is, particularly if you have a diverse team with varying tech proficiencies.
• Customer Service: Reliable support can be critical, especially if transitioning from traditional telephony systems to VoIP.

6. Consider Provider Reputation and Reviews

Finally, delve into user reviews and expert recommendations. Platforms like G2 or Trustpilot offer insights into user satisfaction and potential issues you might face.

By structuring your comparison using these steps, you can pinpoint the most suitable VoIP provider, ensuring it aligns with your budget, operational needs, and growth prospects.

RingBoost makes getting a unique phone number simple

RingBoost is the industry leader for custom phone numbers, offering the largest database of available vanity phone numbers and value added features at a price to fit any budget. 

Our expert team is available to deliver personalized support, marketing expertise and tips for finding the best phone number for your business.)

*Looking for your own custom phone number?*

Search Toll-Free Numbers | Search Local Numbers

Dial in the perfect vanity number with these tips for finding an unforgettable phone number.