Get A 407 Area Code Phone Number Today

Even though its usually an afterthought, a phone number says a lot about your business. Even the area code provides information for a possible customer to consider. You can create a specific phone number tailored to meet your company and business model by changing your phone number. 

What’s So Important About A Phone Number?

In business, perception is often more important than reality. It’s the reason why so many business people are often dressed in high quality and expensive suits. By appearing to be rich and successful, they are creating an image of themselves and their company. 

Dressing and acting, the part of being successful, is a very important part of actually being successful. 

The same concept can also be applied to the phone number of your business. There are quite a few different types of phone numbers, each of them will give off a different perception of your business. 

You will have to decide what you want your phone number to say about you and your business. Here are a few examples of the varying types of phone numbers available and what they might imply to a potential customer:

Vanity Numbers

These numbers will usually help get the attention of potential customers and help them remember the number in the future. Trying to remember a ten-digit phone number can be pretty difficult, but remembering one that spells out words such as 1-800-CASH-4-ME is much easier to remember. While these numbers come with a few benefits, they are also heavily associated with late-night infomercials for ridiculous products. 

A vanity number might give off the impression that your business shouldn’t be taken as seriously as the competition.

Toll Free Numbers

Having one of the various 800 prefixes means that your callers won’t have to pay long-distance charges. While this is less of a problem with modern-day technology, it shows that your business is run nationally. 

Any company that does business from coast to coast would have to be considered successful, so an 800 number would imply success. However, some people prefer to do business with smaller companies or those located within their own community. 

This is where the idea of using a specific area code is the better option. 

Prestigious Area Codes

The area code associated with a business can say a lot more than you may think. Take, for example, the area code of Manhattan: 212. 

Any business with a 212 area code at the front of their number is instantly associated with one of the most powerful business hubs in the world. A business calling from that area code has instant credibility compared to one calling from the middle of North Dakota. 

Since you almost certainly won’t be able to secure a 212 area code, you may have to consider an alternative option instead.  

Where Is The 407 Area Code Located?

The area code of 407 is located in eastern parts of central Florida and services the counties of Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Brevard. These counties are located to the south of Daytona Beach, east of Tampa, and north of West Palm Beach. 

The largest city in this area code is Orlando, but it also includes Alafaya, Pine Hills, Kissimmee, and Sanford as well. The 407 area code is a little over three thousand square miles and includes a population of over 3.6 million people. Due to the high demand for these numbers in this area code, the overlay prefix of 689 has started to be more commonly used. 

Why Should You Use A 407 Area Code?

The 407 code first started to be used in the year 1988. Since the number covers such a large land area, it had been split two separate times by the area codes of 561 in 1996 and 321 in 1999. However, the numbers were frozen, and the current area codes of the location are 407 and 689. 

This information is worth knowing because it means that these area code numbers are very highly sought. One of the largest reasons for this high demand is the location of Disney World and several other theme parks. 

However, there are a few more reasons why outside businesses often use the area code. 

The Theme Parks

Obviously, the largest and most beneficial factor of a 407 area code is that there are several theme parks located there. The most profitable being Disney World, but Orlando is also home to Universal Studios, Sea World, and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, to name a few. 

Under normal circumstances, these theme parks and attractions generate tens of millions of dollars daily. These numbers have taken a dramatic step backward since the pandemic hit but are starting to rise again and slowly return to normal. 

While the number of tourists hasn’t returned to normal levels yet, plenty of businesses have been built around their inevitable return.  

A Growing Number Of Industries

While tourism might be the major draw for the 407 area code, plenty of other businesses are starting to grow in the area. The area is starting to become synonymous with technology and scientific studies due to the Central Florida Research Park being opened there. 

There are also plenty of film and television shows being filmed in the area as well as aerospace and aviation production. A wide variety of business types is very beneficial for an area as it shows that the local economy can survive on more than just one or two industries. 

Lower Taxes

One of the main reasons so many businesses are started and operated in Florida is their generous tax cuts and low revenue burden. This means that a business that is run in Florida has a much higher value and more capital than a business run in most other states. 

It’s important to note that these tax rates won’t apply to your business just because you are using a Florida area code. However, by using an area code such as 407, potential customers may find your business more appealing if they believe you are paying fewer taxes than other similar companies. 

Huge Population

The 407 area code contains so many people that it was split up two times and still needed a third overlay code. With more than 3.6 million people, it is one of the largest area codes in terms of population, and that’s not counting the tens of millions of tourists that visit annually. 

A large population can signal that the local economy is sustainable and is providing a more competitive job market than other areas. A 407 area code could imply that your business has a higher quality team of employees that will be able to provide a more pleasant experience for the customer.  

The Takeaway

Whether you realize it or not, even the tiniest of details are important for a customer when they are attempting to make a purchase. This can include the overall phone number of your business but might even include just the area code. 

Using the Burner app immediately provides your business with an improved perception of professionalism, regardless of where your business is located. By using Burner to set up a second number in the 407 area code, your business will be viewed positively and be associated with the growing Orlando metropolis area. 

SOURCES:

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work? | FCC.gov

Want a 212 area code? It's gonna cost you. | Marketplace.org

407 Area Code - Location map, time zone, and phone lookup | Allareacodes.com

of Area Code 407 - Info and List of Zipcodes in Area Code 407 - Updated | Zpdatamaps.com

The Central Florida tourism industry's money woes mount with each closed day, due to coronavirus - Orlando Business Journal | Bizjournals.com

Central Florida Research Park | CFRP

2020 How Florida Compares: Taxes | Floridataxwatch.org

Get A 805 Area Code Phone Number Today

When running a business, every detail is important. But did you realize your phone number plays a role in your business’ success? 

It might not sound like a particularly important issue, but the official phone number for your business matters. Not only is the phone number itself important, but even the area code can be worth changing. 

Why Does The Phone Number Matter?

Appearances and perception are two very important factors in the success of a business. It’s one of the reasons why most corporate heads will buy and wear expensive suits. By appearing to be a successful businessperson, they are reassuring the public that their product or service is valuable for them and can be trusted to be high quality. 

The same can be true for a phone number as well. Having an official business phone number can help to provide your business with an additional appearance of being professional, focused, and successful. 

Remember, the phone number of your business appears alongside the name and logo of your company, so make sure you select one that accurately represents you and your business.

What Are The Options For Phone Numbers?

There are quite a few different types of phone numbers available for your business. You need to decide which works best for you and your specific business as they each offer different benefits and drawbacks. Some of the different types of phone numbers include:

Toll Free Numbers

A common example of a toll-free number is the prefix: 800. Customers dialing a 1-800 number will most likely perceive the business as operated nationally instead of locally. While some people may prefer dealing with a smaller and local business, plenty of customers prefer the stability and success of a national company instead.

Vanity Numbers

One of the easiest ways to get people to pay attention to your phone number is by creating a clever vanity number. Anyone trying to remember a ten-digit number they saw on a commercial will almost certainly get mixed up or forget a few digits. 

However, a number such as 1-800-CASH-4-ME would be much easier to remember. While the number might stay in the customer’s head longer, vanity numbers are unprofessional. You should select a number that is easy to remember and doesn’t make your business appear like it’s a joke.

Important Area Codes

The area code associated with your business says a lot about it, even if you have never been to the area. For example, Manhattan currently uses an area code of 212 and is one of the world’s largest and wealthiest hubs of business. 

Having an area code like 212 indicates that your company has made it to and succeeded in one of the most powerful areas of business. 

You probably won’t be able to secure a 212 area code for your phone, but there are plenty of other options that could have a similar positive effect on your business. 

Where Is Area Code 805?

The area code of 805 is located in the southern parts of California and touches the Pacific Ocean. The area is located a little bit north of Los Angeles, south of San Jose, and borders the western side of Fresno and Bakersfield. 

The 805 area code services the counties of Santa Barbara, Ventura, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo, including several large cities such as Oxnard, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and San Buenaventura. 

There are an estimated 2.2 million people living in the 805 area code range, and the code also services a few military facilities.  

Why Will The 805 Area Code Be Helpful?

The area code 805 has been in use since 1957, making it one of the oldest running area codes in the country. Over the years, it’s become synonymous with the northern parts of southern California. There is plenty of wealth in this area alongside companies like:

• Mission Linen Supply

• Inamed

• Yardi Systems

• Cottage Health

a long history of Fortune 500 companies being created and operated. 

Having an area code related to this area can give off several impressions about your business that could be beneficial. 

An Above Average Household Income

The 805 area code covers 24 cities. One of the largest cities represented by 805 is Santa Barbara. 

The average household income in Santa Barbara is over $76,000 annually. According to the latest United States census, the average household income is less than $63,000 per year. 

Although the 805 area code is far from the wealthiest area code in the country, it clearly has much more disposable income than other areas.  

Multiple Industries In The Area

Several companies have been established in the 805 area code ranging from health care, agriculture, and manufacturing to entertainment, recreation, and tourism. The area is also known for oil fields, high-quality vineyards, and software development. A wide variety of businesses implies that the area is sustainable for industries of all types. 

High Levels Of Tourism

Just about anywhere in southern California experiences high levels of tourism, but the 805 area code has a few specific qualities that might be interesting to tourists. Alongside traditionally beach-related activities such as surfing, sailing, or kiteboarding, the 805 area also has trails for hiking and streams for kayaking and fishing. 

There are plenty of high-quality boutiques and shopping centers located in the area that generate traffic and revenue for the area. Along the southern end of the 805 area, plenty of studios create television and movies that provide lots of tourist attractions. 

Military Base

The Vandenberg Space Force Base, formerly known as the Vandenberg Air Force Base, has been operating in the 805 area code since it opened in 1941. The base is one of six active-duty Space Force bases in the United States and is home to 15,000 soldiers and their families. 

Although the base isn’t known to be a huge tourist attraction, military bases can be very beneficial to the local economy.  

Large Population

Roughly 2.2 million people are estimated to live in the 805 area. In Oxnard, there are nearly 200,000 residents alone, representing just one of 24 cities in the area. A large population indicates a stable local economy that can sustain itself and grow for the future. 

A growing population also means that the job market is competitive. This leads to a higher quality workforce that performs their jobs efficiently and provides a better experience for the potential customer. 

The Takeaway

You might not realize it, but the phone number associated with your business has a very large impact on the perception of your company. Not only does the phone number have an impact on your business, but the area code can make a difference too. 

Despite only being three digits, the area code associated with your business can provide a heightened sense of professionalism and legitimacy for your business. You have the option of choosing a specific area code to use, and you won’t even need to reside in the area that it represents. 

Download the Burner app and setup your second number in the 805 area code today to improve how potential customers and other businesses view you.

SOURCES:

Want a 212 area code? It's gonna cost you | Marketplace.org

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work? | FCC.gov

805 Area Code - Location map, time zone, and phone lookup | Allareacodes.com

How To Call Privately: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

According to Businessinsider.com, 46% of Americans say they receive spam phone calls every day. And Reader’s Digest tells us just how easy it is for telemarketers to get your number.

But it’s a fairly simple process to prevent your number from showing up on caller ID when calling businesses, making purchases, or going about your daily lives. While using an app can offer up much better protection for your phone, there are a few other ways that you can keep your number private.

Use A Special Code

The simple method is also the most universal. Using a special code works on any type of cell phone as well as a landline in the United States. The most common block code is *67 and should be effective for almost all phones. 

To make your number private and prevent it from displaying on the other phone's caller ID, you would simply enter the block code in before dialing the number:  

1. You will need to determine the correct code to use. Your number will most likely be safely blocked by using the *67 block code, but in some cases, it may require using #31# instead.

2. Open up the phone app that you use to make calls. Make sure not to use a callback option or select the number from your contacts, as the number would be dialed without using the block code.

3. Dial the correct block code. Make sure that you enter the code properly and use the proper numbers and symbols.

4. Enter the phone number of the person you wish to call. Instead of being ten digits, it will now be at least 13 characters long and look different. 

5. Check that the number is correct and hit the call button.

If you intend to call this number again in the future and wish to continue to remain private when you do, you can store the number in your contacts with the block code attached. You would create a contact as normal and just enter the block code before the number when adding the number. 

This ensures that anytime you call the number in the future, your number is blocked.

Disable The Feature On Your Phone

Regardless of the type of smartphone you have, it comes with some features allowing you to make your phone number private during calls. The exact process varies depending on the model and operating system. 

However, if you have a Verizon phone, you won’t make your number private with your phone. They still provide the ability, but you will instead have to go to their website or use the My Verizon app to change your account options. 

For other phones, the process only requires a few steps. 

iPhones

Most iPhones come with a built-in option for disabling your caller ID and making your phone number private. To disable the feature, you would:

1. Open up the Settings app of your iPhone. It should look like two silver gears in your list of apps.

2. Select the Phone option in Settings. The icon should be green and look similar to the headset of a landline phone.

3. Press the option that says Show My Caller ID that appears on the list.

4. Tap the toggle switch that appears beside Show My Caller ID. When the toggle switch is on the left side, and the color is gray, your Caller ID should no longer appear when you make a phone call. 

Androids

The more recent models of Androids come with this option, but some of the older ones might not. Additionally, some Samsung phones have a different menu than other Androids, and therefore the process looks different. 

For most of the newer models, the process goes like this:

1. Open up the Phone app that you use to make calls. It will be green and looks like an old landline headset.

2. In the top right corner, tap the icon that indicates more options. It might appear like three vertical dots, three vertical lines, or simply say More. 

3. Select the Settings options in the menu that appears. 

4. Scroll down and select the More Settings option. It might say Additional Settings or Supplementary Settings. 

5. Tap the Show Caller ID option that appears in the menu. It should appear near the top and might be listed as Show My Caller ID.

6. Select the Hide Number option in the menu that appears. This should prevent your number from being listed on all future calls made from your phone. 

Use the Burner App

There are plenty of high-quality apps and software available that help to keep your number private and safe. Unlike some of the other options on this list, these apps can provide this service for text messages in addition to phone calls. 

The Burner app works by assigning you a second phone number. Burner intercepts the calls made to your normal phone number and then routes them to your cell phone number, which would remain private. 

You can create as many numbers as you like simultaneously and they’re all local to the U.S. or Canada. These burner numbers work when calling our texting and can be “burned” at any time, meaning those you contacted, cannot contact you back.

Talk To Your Phone Carrier

Depending on your service provider, you have the option of making your number private. Most of the major providers offer some version of this service, including Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, and T-Mobile. You can simply dial 611 on your phone and be directly placed into contact with customer service. 

From here, you can request that your number be made private. Normally the providers won’t charge a fee for this feature, and you can have it enabled permanently. In the event that you select this option, you can disable the feature and allow your information to be displayed during a call. 

To do this, simply enter the code *82 before dialing, and it will allow your information to be displayed to the person you are calling. 

The Takeaway

As technology expands and becomes more complicated, it’s important to stay on top of your privacy and security. Your phone number is a very important part of your life, and it’s a wise move to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. 

There are several effective ways that you can make your phone number private. However, none of these options provide security for your phone in the same way that getting a second number using the Burner app can. Download the app and get your second number today.

SOURCES

Use Star Codes to Stop Unwanted Calls and More | ATT.com

5 ways to block or hide your number when making calls | USAToday.com

How to Block Your Number and Hide Caller ID | Businessinsider.com

Get A 949 Area Code Phone Number Today

You can use almost everything to create a competitive edge in the world of business. The obvious examples include the name, logo, product, price, or advertisements of your business. However, a lesser-known opportunity for separating yourself from your competitors is by changing your phone number. 

You might not realize it, but the phone number associated with your business plays a very large role in the way potential customers perceive your company. The area code alone alters the way that the public views your business and plays an important role in your sales. 

Why Is A Phone Number Important To Business?

Having an official business number is extremely important for your company, regardless of the service or product that you are selling. A business number immediately boosts your credibility in the eyes of the local public and makes you appear more professional and successful. 

The number becomes a part of your brand because it appears alongside the name of your company. The number almost certainly is displayed clearly in any commercials, billboards, websites, brochures, or business cards that you create. 

As a result, you may want to select one that can help expand your customer base.

What Are The Options For A Business Phone Number?

There are quite a few different choices when it comes to selecting a phone number for your business. Each of them has its own potential benefits for your business. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which one works best for your specific brand and company model. The various options for a business phone number include:

Vanity Numbers

Using a vanity number is one of the easiest ways to grab a potential customer’s attention and help them remember your number for the future. Think about the late-night commercials that you have seen that include a bizarre number, such as 1-800-CASH-4-ME. 

It’s much easier to remember a phone number like that one instead of ten random digits. However, a number like that may appear silly or gimmicky to some customers. 

Toll Free Numbers

Having an 800 number has a few different benefits for your business. Along with helping your customers and business partners to reach you for free, it also gives the perception that your business operates nationwide. 

There are several toll-free numbers now besides an 800 prefix. Other toll-free numbers available include 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888. 

Each number provides the same service, so you will be able to select whoever one flows most smoothly with the rest of your number. 

A Local Number

Depending on your business, you might have the local area code assigned to your number. However, if you are doing business in another area, you might want an area code used there instead. 

When living in an area, people get used to dialing their area code. If you have a different area code, this could confuse the customer and result in misdialing. 

Another benefit of having a local area code is that people will assume your business is headquartered in the area. They might be more inclined to do business with a local than they would if the number was assigned somewhere out of state. 

Prestigious Area Codes

There are quite a few area codes that come with an altered perspective of your business. For example, one of the most famous area codes is 212, which represents the island of Manhattan. The value of a business having a 212 area code cannot be understated. 

Manhattan is home to some of the world’s most wealthy and powerful businesses. Having an area code associated with Manhattan gives your business an incredible boost in legitimacy and perception. 

While that area code is beneficial, a 212 area code is also nearly impossible to get. However, there are still a few other prestigious area codes that can boost your business credibility. 

Where Is Area Code 949 Located?

The area code of 949 is located in the southern parts of California and primarily represents Orange County. The area of Orange County is located alongside the Pacific Ocean and is south of Los Angeles and a little north of San Diego. 

Some of the major cities inside of Orange County include Irvine, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and San Clemente. There are over three million people estimated to live in Orange County, making up approximately 75 percent of the people who use the 949 area code. 

Why Use Area Code 949?

949 was first put into service in 1998 and is one of several area codes representing the southern part of California ever since. Orange County is home to some of the wealthiest people in the world and is one of the most important business hubs globally. 

Using this area code is highly beneficial to the way that your business is perceived. There is plenty of positive information about the 949 area code that improves the perception of your company.

A Large Population

Nearly three million people are living in Orange County. More than 200,000 people live in the suburban city of Irvine, and that number continues to grow annually. This is just one of the dozens of cities using the 949 area code. A population that high suggests high amounts of shopping and a thriving local economy. 

Great Schools

Orange County has a very highly rated public school system that helps to produce a strong workforce for any business located in the area. Potential customers will take comfort in thinking that your business is staffed by capable individuals that successfully graduated from Orange County schools.

Wealth

Newport Beach is one of the cities located in Orange County and is considered one of the wealthiest communities in the United States. The property values continue to rise along with the average income. 

These economic rises have led to a steady decline in crime, making Orange County one of the safer places to live. It is a safe assumption that a business located in this area code is doing very well financially. 

Technology Centric Area

The technology boom of the last few decades affected Southern California. Several Fortune 500 tech companies started and continue to operate in the surrounding areas of 949. Being associated with some of these industrial giants adds legitimacy to your business. 

Along with tech companies, there are plenty of other businesses located in the area inducing fashion moguls, automotive engineers, and regional headquarters. 

The Takeaway

The phone number that is associated with your business says a lot about your company. It’s important to select a phone number that will carry along with it a message of professionalism and legitimacy. 

Whether you opt for a vanity number, toll-free number, or local number, you should make sure that the area code is best for your business. A 949 area code helps to improve the public perception of your business. Use the Burner app as a second calling number to stay relevant in the 949 area code and keep your business and personal lives private, and separate.

SOURCES

Newport Beach is the richest US city | Orange County Register.

Want a 212 area code? It's gonna cost you | Marketplace.org

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work? | FCC.gov

949 Area Code - Location map, time zone, and phone lookup | Allareacodes.com

Orange County California - Visitor and Community Guide | Orangecounty.net

Get A 954 Area Code Phone Number Today

Marketing and branding are two common buzzwords associated with your business. But you’re probably thinking about the name, logo, or commercials relating to a business. These are just a few examples of marketing and branding, but another important factor that can commonly be overlooked is the phone number. 

Choosing a certain phone number or area code makes a big difference and separates your business from the competition. 

Why Does The Phone Number Matter?

The ultimate goal of your business is to offer up an alternative to your competition. Any way that you can separate your business from the others is beneficial to making a sale. Having a generic phone number makes your business seem dull and unimaginative. 

Think about all of those late-night commercials for injury lawyers or payday loans. They often have a specific number that spells out a word that’s related to their law firm. You might not realize it, but this is a clever marketing move designed to help you to remember the phone number this way instead of ten random digits. 

These are what are known as vanity numbers, but they are far from the only important factor when it comes to the phone number of a business.    

Why Does The Area Code Matter?

Even if you don’t decide to opt for a vanity number, you should still consider changing the area code associated with your business. Although it might not seem like it, a lot of information is being relayed to a potential customer with just those three numbers. 

There are a few different options available when it comes to changing your area code, each with its own potential benefits and perceptions. 

A Toll Free Number

Having a toll-free number means that the person calling won’t be charged fees for making a long-distance call. The most common toll-free code is 800. But over time, the codes 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833 have been added due to the popularity of the prefix. 

A toll-free code gives your customers a sense that your business is run nationally. The perception that a business is national helps provide trust for the customer that they will have a quality product and positive experience.

A Local Area Code

Using a local area code gives customers a sense that you are headquartered in their area and beneficial to their community. The idea of helping their community by supporting a local business can be the deciding factor for some customers. 

If you are primarily selling a product or service in a certain area, having an out-of-town phone number for your business might confuse your customers and lead to them misdialing or not answering. 

Prestigious Codes

Some area codes can even bring a sense of legitimacy to your business right from the beginning. For example, the area code of 212 is one of several codes that are assigned to Manhattan, which contains some of the most powerful and wealthy businesses in the world. 

Having a business number with an area code of 212 boosts the perception of your business. 

Where Is Area Code 954?

Area code 954 is located on the southeastern seaboard of Florida and covers the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, and several others. This area is known as Broward County and makes up about 1,200 square miles of the space between West Palm Beach to the north and Miami to the south. 

Around 1.7 million people currently live in Broward county. The 954 area code has been in use since 1995, but the overlay code of 754 was added a few years later as a result of the population boom in South Florida. 

Why Use A 954 Area Code?

Tourism is an extremely popular business in the South Florida region. Using an area code of 954 helps you to build up a local presence in the area and potentially reach new customers. 

Another key factor determining the value of a 954 area code is that Florida is the 4th largest state economy in the nation. Because approximately half of the state’s workforce is made up of small businesses, having a 954 area code brings a certain appeal and charm to your business. 

There are a few other perceptions that can come with a 954 area code as well: 

A Low Unemployment Rate

Before the pandemic changed the world, Fort Lauderdale consistently had an unemployment rate of less than five percent. As the world slowly begins to return to normal, the unemployment rate should return to around these levels. 

When an area has a low unemployment rate, it means that the job market is more competitive. This gives off the indication that your business is thriving despite having intense competition. 

Another benefit is that low unemployment rates lead to further job growth and expansion, so local customers will be more likely to purchase a product with these potential benefits. 

Lower Taxes And Cost Of Living

Although the cost of living for Florida is a little bit higher than the national average, the minimum wage is more, and the tax burden is much less. Seven states have a low tax rate for the residents and businesses; Florida is one of them. 

Along with the geographical location of Florida, this low tax rate is considered one of the main reasons for so many businesses relocating to Florida in the last few decades. While the tax rate and cost of living for your business wouldn’t change by simply switching your area code, it is appealing to a potential customer that your business has more capital and value by being in Florida. 

Tourists And Colleges

Tourism is one of the most important economic factors for Florida. The weather is preferred to the icy storms and snow of many northern parts of the United States, so the beaches are filled with people from out of town.

The addition of Disney World has helped Florida grow into a popular vacation destination as well. A number associated with a high tourism area would indicate that your business always has a steady stream of money coming in front out of town. 

Instead of circulating money around the community, out-of-town money helps build it up and improve the area, leading to higher levels of tourism. 

Another benefit of the 954 area code is all of the colleges and institutions of higher learning nearby. Similar to the 415 area code of San Francisco, having an area code associated with high levels of education brings an intellectual appeal to a business. 

The Takeaway

Despite only being three digits, the area code associated with your business has a large impact on your customers and their perception of your business. Whether reasonable or not, customers can make a lot of assumptions about a company based on the area code in their phone number. 

An area code of 954 currently has several potential benefits and brings about positive perceptions for your business. Use the Burner app as a second calling number to stay relevant in the 954 area code and keep your business and personal lives private, and separate.

SOURCES

Do area codes even matter anymore? | Marketwatch.com

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work? | FCC.gov

In Manhattan, the 646 Area Code Is Correct, but Somehow Wrong (Published 1999) | NYTimes.com

954 Area Code - Location map, time zone, and phone lookup | Allareacodes.com

The Alliance - Broward County June jobs increased by 34,800 year over year (+4.4%) | GFLAlliance.org.

Do Floridians pay the lowest taxes? A comparison with other states - May 19• Opinion | Tampabay.com

Free Phone Number Solutions For Businesses

Having an official phone number for your business is necessary for success. Not only does it provide a quick and simple way for customers to contact you, but it also adds a sense of professionalism and credibility to your business. 

An online presence is important as well and is very convenient for your business and the customers alike. However, you need to provide a personal and human connection via telephone to grow your business. 

While the costs of maintaining and operating an official phone number can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to cut costs. These are a few free solutions that can help you to save some money on your communications expenses. 

What You Need To Get Started

To use one of the free phone numbers or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, you will need a few things to get started. The good news is that there isn’t any expensive hardware required, and you probably have most of these items anyway. 

Firstly, you’ll need to have a computer that accesses the internet to use these services. Along with a solid connection to the internet, you also need an established phone service. 

When establishing your phone service consider these other features:

• Business texting

• Free texting

• International calling

• Unlimited calling

• Visual voicemail

• Personal phone number or free virtual number capabilities

• Ability to block numbers

Additional lines include your cell phone or landline. Some VoIP services require additional equipment to work properly, such as software or a telephone adapter. However, these are fairly cheap and easy to install. 

The Best Free Solutions For A Business Phone Number

Most of the items on this list are only free for a trial period and will require a monthly cellular service or cellular data plan to continue service. While these plans aren’t free in the strictest definition of the word, they can still be valuable in the long term. 

It all depends on what you are looking for in a business phone number as each of them has various pros and cons. Keep in mind that there are plenty of high-quality options for business phone number apps in case this list doesn’t suit your specific needs.

Google Voice

Google Voice is one of the top options on this list because of how many features you get for free. Another benefit is how easy it is to start using. In fact, if you already have a Google account, the hard part is done, and you have access to your free cell phone number. 

This VoIP service has been in use since 2009 and includes a wide bundle of features in its free tier. Some of these features include voicemail, call forwarding, text messaging, call block, personalized voicemail greetings, and voicemail transcription. It’s important to note that these features are only available if the device or phone is connected to the internet. 

Google Voice also comes with an artificial intelligence filter that helps eliminate spam calls. It also has a screening feature that prompts callers to say their names before the call goes through to your phone. A few additional features are available with a paid subscription, but you get a vast majority of features with the free version. 

The downside of Google Voice is that the mobile number provided is a local number. This means that the number won’t be a toll-free number, and there might be long-distance fees charged as a result. 

FreedomPop

FreedomPop is another option near the top of this list due to the features that are unlocked for free. Unlike Google Voice, FreedomPop is not 100% free and requires a one-time activation fee of $19.99 and a separate cell phone. However, there are no more fees afterward unless you select one of their monthly plans. 

FreedomPop makes our list due to the features it provides for no monthly fee: 200 minutes of talk time, 500 text messages, and 500 MB of data. While these features might not sound impressive in terms of a business phone, they are only used when you aren’t connected to a public wifi network. 

This means that you could dial and receive an unlimited amount of calls each month provided that the phone remains connected to public wifi. While this option is not the best long-term solution, it helps to save a lot of money for your business early on. 

eVoice

eVoice is a virtual phone service providing several beneficial features to customize to fit your specific needs. This service offers up a free local number from a list of available numbers in select area codes along with a toll-free 1-800 number. 

You can use these numbers for the entire duration of the free 30-day trial. After that time, you need to purchase one of their paid plans. The cheapest plan is $12.99 a month, but it includes an auto-attendant feature that answers your calls with a professional greeting, advanced call routing, which lets you dictate where the calls are sent, and a voicemail-to-email feature that converts emails into audio files sent to your email. 

The paid subscription provides up to 300 minutes of service, two extensions, and six numbers that can be assigned to different members of your team.  

FreedomVoice

FreedomVoice is another service offering a free 30-day trial. What separates FreedomVoice from the other options on this list is that it allows choosing your own vanity business phone number instead of a randomly assigned local number. 

However, choosing your number requires a $30 activation fee to start using it. A vanity number is helpful for clients to remember you and is worth considering, even if it isn’t strictly a free option. 

Along with a personalized vanity number, FreedomVoice also comes with quality features in each plan. One of these features is the virtual receptionist providing automated call answering, caller messaging, and transferring of inbound calls. 

CallCentric

CallCentric is different compared to some of the other options on this list. For starters, CallCentric requires special software or a telephone adapter to place VoIP phone calls. 

Another key difference is that it doesn’t offer a free trial. However, for only one dollar a month, CallCentric allows users to select a phone number from one of the following four states: New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and Massachusetts. 

One main benefit of using this service is that all calls made to and from other CallCentric customers are free. However, calls made to traditional phone services are charged by the minute or require a monthly subscription. 

The lowest plan starts at $1.95 a month and provides 120 minutes for outbound calls.    

Burner

Burner has a 7-day free trial and it’s rare that users decide to quit the app after the seven days pass. Users note that it, “...keeps unwanted people from getting your number but you can still keep in touch.”

With Burner, you have what’s known as a “burner number,” or a number you wouldn’t give to those you trust. The app allows you to create a number for any situation, share it with who you’d like, and then get rid of that number when it’s no longer needed. The burner number rings to your cell, but you never actually share your real number.

The app is great for Sales people, freelancers, or even for dating. 

The Takeaway

There are very few things that you can get for free in the world today. Most of the options listed above are only free during the trial period, but Google Voice offers several free benefits.  

FreedomPop is another quality option for very cheap but not a viable long-term option. Sooner or later, you will have to invest in a long-term solution for your business that provides more stability than a free Google app. 

If you need a long term business phone number solution but want to stay organized, get a phone number app that allows you to separate business and personal life. Doing this saves you money and provides the quality and protection needed.

SOURCES

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

A Simple Guide to Auto-Attendant Phone Systems

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work?.

How To Safely Use Public Wi-Fi Networks

Micro Business Tips Nobody Ever Told You About

Opening a business can be a very challenging endeavor, but keeping it open is even harder. It’s estimated that nearly one out of every five new businesses will shut down within their first two years. 

That number will more than double by five years from the opening date. The first few years are absolutely essential to determining whether a business will fail or succeed. It’s important to keep this harsh reality in mind as you continue to build your business. 

You will have to work very hard every day in order to keep your business from becoming another statistic.

Know The Facts About Starting a Business

Making the decision to start your own business will permanently influence the rest of your life. It’s a monumental decision that will require a lot of courage and determination in order to follow through. 

There are so many potential events that will impact how successful your business is and there are plenty that you won’t be able to control. Luck will play a very important role in whether or not your business succeeds, but it’s far from the only factor. 

There are plenty of things that you will control that can increase the chances of your business being a success. While there is no sure-fire plan for starting and operating a successful business, these are a few tips that might be able to help you get the ground and running.

Organization Is Crucial

There is no successful business model that encourages chaos in any way. Getting your business organized is probably the most important step early on. You might think that you can remember important information and tasks, but you shouldn’t leave anything to chance. Every day you should be creating a new to-do list of tasks that need to be completed. If you are unable to accomplish a task then it should be the first item on the next day’s list.  

Store And File Everything

Every business will include mountains of paperwork, receipts, and records. It’s highly important that you file each and every memo associated with your business either physically or virtually. When it comes to your business, there is no such thing as “insignificant.” 

You should be able to quickly look up the exact amount of revenue and expenditures that your business is accruing. Knowing where you stand financially will help determine the most important moves that you will need to make in order to help your business to grow. 

Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks

Just about every move that you will make as a business operator will have some degree of risk involved. There is no such thing as a “sure thing”, but that doesn’t mean that you should take crazy risks. 

To succeed as a business, you need to take risks. The idea is to make sure that they are calculated risks instead of random choices. Try to establish what the potential worst-case scenario would be should the risk backfire. 

One financial risk is using valuable operating dollars for advertising. You invest in ad creation and placement hoping that those ads perform well. However, you won’t know until you do it, so there's a risk in spending on advertising. However, the reward is exponential if the advertisements work.

Regardless of the potential rewards, if the possible downside is too severe then you shouldn’t take the chance. 

Be Patient

It can take a very long time in order to build a successful and sustainable business. There will most likely include plenty of setbacks and failed goals along the way as well. Nothing worthwhile is built or achieved easily and business is no different. 

Remember to be patient and stay focused on your dream of operating a successful business. It’s natural to feel discouraged and stressed out from time to time, but remember that the next day is another opportunity to improve your business and keep it on track toward success.

Maintain Quality Customer Service

There will be a lot of cold and emotionless numbers involved with running a business, but don’t forget about the heart of the company: The customer. 

While lowering expenses and maximizing profits is a major part of running a successful business, none of that will matter without customers. Implementing and maintaining a high level of customer service plays an extremely important role in determining the success of a business. 

Providing a high level of customer service involves implementing tools allowing you to make customer service easy. For instance, a customer relationship management (CRM) platform helps you remember details and intricacies of your customer interactions. This means your customer is treated as a welcome friend instead of another stranger.

Know Your Competitors

Speaking of competition, it’s important to learn as much about your competitors as you can. You should always assume that your competitor is doing a better job than you and try to improve in order to beat them. 

For example, you should always be aware of how much your competition is charging for a similar product or service. The price of the product (along with the perception of the price) is one of the most important factors that a customer will weigh when considering making a purchase. Depending on what your competition is charging, you might be overcharging and losing potential customers. 

Alternatively, you might be underpricing your product and not only losing money but appearing like the “knock off” version. When a customer has multiple options for a product or service, that’s cool for them, but you have to help them to decide that your business is the best choice for them. 

You can also learn from the mistakes and successes of your competitors. Studying and learning from the competition can be a great way to help you to make sense of the types of decisions that are the best for the future of your company. 

Marketing Is Key

You might not even realize it, but you’re exposed to over 4,000 advertisements every day. There is a reason why companies spend billions of dollars to display their name on anything that they can. A customer is much more likely to choose your business if they have heard of you previously so make sure that your name is getting out there. 

You will want to keep your marketing budget within reason as your business continues to grow. While there is no reason to purchase a Super Bowl commercial just yet, you should definitely be advertising your business locally in order to help it thrive. 

Start with fliers if you’re a small business, move to targeted social media ads, radio ads, and local television commercials if you’re a midsize to enterprise level business. As your business continues to grow, your marketing should expand and grow right alongside it.

Keep Your Passion In Check

Passion is a very important part of building and maintaining a business, but too much of it can cause downfall. If you’ve gone through the trouble of building up a business then you clearly care very much about your work.

It’s important to keep that passion in check and make sure that your decisions are based on facts and data instead of feelings and emotions. You should always take the time to thoroughly consider your next move and never rush into anything. 

Listen to the advice of the people in your life and carefully think about what’s best for your business. It may take some time, but finding a balance between your passion and wisdom can be very helpful to keep your business growing safely.

The Takeaway

Starting and operating a micro business can be very difficult, but following a few of these tips should help you to stay on track toward success. There are so many things that you can’t control that will affect your business. 

That is why it’s so important to control the things that you can. Start building a strong business foundation with a business phone number, contact management too, and marketing tools all in one app. Download Dialed now or visit us for more information.

Sources:

Top 6 Reasons New Businesses Fail | www.investopedia.com

How Customers Perceive a Price Is as Important as the Price Itself | hbr.org

Finding Brand Success In The Digital World | www.forbes.com