Evaluating Various 800 Number Services

By Author: Jen Silva
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In nearly every market today doing business nationally or even globally is essential to success for any start up company. No matter how big or small, you need an 800 number so that customers can stay in touch with you no matter where they are or what phone they are using. Even though most people have free nationwide calling these days, 800 numbers also serve to give your business a more professional air.

Of course, the most important thing about 800 numbers for a start up company is the expense. Getting the cheapest 800 number with the best features is going to be of the utmost priority. In comparing 800 numbers, first look for features, then price. By looking for features first, you know you won't be sacrificing anything you want or need just to get a cheaper price.

Features

There are a lot of features available with different 800 number services, and you have to consider which features you need or want and which ones you can do without. The easiest way to get an 800 number is through the company you use for your land line service, if you have one. Unfortunately, these services often have the least functionality. ...
... You can also find 800 number services online.

Online services offer a myriad of features, from voice mail to email alerts or text messaging. You can have your 800 numbers sent directly to a voice mail service, or you can have them forwarded to your land line or cell phone. You can receive an email alert or text message whenever you have a voice mail on your 800 number in most cases. At a slightly higher cost you can even send and receive text messages on your 800 number sent to your mobile phone.

Carefully compare features of the different 800 services and see which ones will best benefit your company. Even if you come up with some really cool features that sound great, if they don't benefit your business it is not worth paying for them. Many directory services offer comparison charts of 800 services so that you can easily see what features are available from each.

Price

Once you have decided what features you need and who offers them, you need to look at price. Of course, the cheapest price is the best, but don't sacrifice features you need in order to save a few pennies.

Use online comparison charts that detail the fee structure for each service you are considering. Make sure that you are using a good comparison chart that details every cost you will possibly have, excluding tax. Go to each website to verify the complete fee structure for each service you are considering. Read all of the fine print and make sure you know what you will be paying for your 800 numbers. Hidden costs and fees or taxes are often included in your billing statement, and you need to know about these costs up front before making your decision.
About Author:
The author is a creator and researcher of small business software and products on topics such as 800 phone numbers. Please visit http://800-numbers.pbxcompare.com for more info on 800 numbers.