Old phones just don't cut it anymore. Traditional phone lines can't keep up with all your business needs. How can you improve your communication strategy and boost productivity?

Desk phones that can be used from home or remotely are becoming increasingly available. But is it possible to manage a professional voicemail from a computer? Or integrate it with CRM software? Virtual phone numbers are the solution you're looking for. Below, we’ll explain how these numbers work.

Differences between virtual and standard phone numbers

A standard phone number is installed and provided by a phone company. Most people know that the number belongs to them, not the phone company. Landline calls typically rely on a physical line connected to the address where the phone is located.

Standard phone lines require a physical connection to be routed into the building for every phone in the house. Setting up mobile phones can be difficult and isn't always straightforward for every business.

Virtual phone numbers: Are they right for you or your business?

Virtual phone numbers eliminate the physical limitations of traditional communications, giving businesses flexibility and mobility. Virtual phone numbers are simple and efficient to set up.

Virtual phone numbers come in different types to handle all kinds of tasks. You can get toll-free numbers, international calling numbers, universal phone numbers, numbers with specific area codes, or vanity numbers.

Types of virtual phone numbers

Toll-free numbers

These are 10-digit French numbers starting with 0800 to 0805. These are numbers where the call is free of charge for the caller.

They are usually used to provide value-added services (VAS).

Numbers with specific area codes

These numbers are assigned to a foreign SIM card under the authority of a local foreign mobile network operator, which ensures their validity. They send messages to and from the assigned MCC (Mobile Country Code).

Vanity numbers

In a vanity or mnemonic number, the corresponding letters on the keypad spell out a word or name.

For example, 0800-FLOWERS or 0805-BOAT.

There are also easy-to-dial numbers, where the numerical sequence follows a simple, easy-to-remember pattern, using either repeated or alternating digits, as opposed to a number with random digits.

Why switch to using a virtual phone number?

Virtual numbers eliminate the need for physical lines, allowing for greater flexibility, mobility, and connectivity at lower prices than typical phone services can offer.

Easy migration from existing numbers

The ability to keep a business phone number is essential. Fortunately, it is easy to switch old numbers to a virtual one using the Octopush platform. Virtual phones allow you to keep your business contact numbers at your fingertips while benefiting from high-tech capabilities like CRM messaging integration.

Receive SMS messages anywhere, from any connected device

Virtual phone numbers allow people to stay online anytime and anywhere the phone is used. Send SMS messages to a physical phone or an Android smartphone at work.

Send voice messages

Traditionally, a phone connection is made via a carrier network. And if it is a landline, you cannot send text messages.

A virtual number is a solution that allows for the sending of SMS and voice SMS messages as well. The ability to listen to voice messages helps ensure that messages are received and heard immediately.

Employees can separate their professional phone from their personal phone

Unlike a traditional phone number, a virtual phone number is useful for many other tasks, such as using a different number for your professional SMS messages. The virtual number also offers caller ID, giving the recipient total confidence when contacting your number.

Virtual phones are now an ideal option if you want remote access. Most companies work separately, or some require their employees to travel away from the office. Remote staff do not need to install a desk phone or use a mobile phone to contact clients.

Improve customer satisfaction with automated responders

Virtual number services give customers a simple way to find the right person. When a customer contacts you via your virtual phone number to ask questions about their billing, they will be directed to one of your financial advisors. They won't need multiple contacts before finding the best-equipped person. Traditional phones lack these powerful routing capabilities.