How To Get a Business Phone Number – Complete Guide For Business Owners

Published on September 17, 2024 | Last Updated on December 11, 2024

Ready to make your business look professional and accessible to customers?

A dedicated business phone number is the key. Whether you’re a start-up or an established company, having a separate business line adds credibility and streamlines your communications.

We’ll also explore how to get a business phone number and how Air Landline can be your ideal communication partner, offering advanced features and flexibility to empower your business growth.

What is a Business Phone Number?

A business phone number is simply a phone number specifically for your business. It’s separate from your personal phone number, creating a clear division between work and personal life. It also adds a touch of professionalism and makes it easier for customers to reach you.

How do business phone numbers work?

Traditionally, business phone numbers were tied to physical phone lines and hardware. But nowadays, thanks to technological advancements, companies can get a virtual phone number.

Your virtual business phone number isn’t tied to a physical location, app, device or even internet connection. You can make and receive calls as you would with your personal mobile phone.

Why are more and more small businesses using virtual business phone numbers?

Think of virtual business numbers as the Swiss Army knives of the communication world. They’re packed with features that can seriously boost your business game.

• Professional Image: A dedicated business number instantly makes you look more established and credible.
• Flexibility: Take calls from anywhere with an internet connection. No more missed opportunities!
• Cost-Effective: Hosted VoIP business phone numbers are often much cheaper than traditional phone lines.
• Feature-Rich: Call forwarding, voicemail transcriptions, auto attendants. And the list goes on!
• Scalability: Easily add or remove lines as your business grows.

How to Get a UK Business Number?

Getting a business number is more accessible.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a business phone number:

Step 1: Choose a VoIP Provider

You should research and compare features, pricing, and customer reviews to find a VoIP provider that fits your needs.

Click here to find out how Air Landline virtual business numbers stack up against other providers!

Step 2: Select Your Number Type

You have a few options when it comes to the type of VoIP business number:

• Local Number: Gives you a presence in a specific area code.
• Toll-Free Number: Let customers call you for free (great for sales and support!).
• Vanity Number: A memorable number that spells out a word or phrase related to your brand.

Air Landline specialises in national and local/area code based phone numbers, we don’t do not provide toll-free or vanity numbers.

How to get a specific phone number for a business?

Want to have a VoIP number that’s easy to remember or tied to a particular location? Here’s where Air Landline comes in.

With Air Landline, you can get a local number based on your preferred location. For example, you can get local business phone numbers in London, Oxford, Manchester, Edinburgh, etc

This is perfect for establishing a regional presence or targeting customers in a specific area.

Step 3: Start Making and Receiving Calls!

And that’s it!

You can now start spreading the word and watch your business grow!

Air Landline makes acquiring a business phone number simple, without the hassle of traditional phone lines or complex setups to make and receive calls.

Step 4: Configure

After you’ve signed up and received your brand new local business number, you can begin configuring your new VoIP business phone system.

This might include setting up call forwarding, voicemail greetings, and any other features you want to use.

Step 5: Optional – Choosing the best office desk phones

A reliable and efficient communication system is crucial for businesses. While mobile phones and messaging apps have their place, the humble desk phone remains essential for many companies.

But with so many options on the market, choosing the suitable desk phones for your office can be overwhelming.

Let’s break down the key factors and highlight some top recommendations.

1. Consider Your Needs and Budget

Before you start browsing phone models, take a step back and assess your specific requirements:

• User Count: How many employees will be using the phones? This will influence the number of phones you need and the type of system that will best suit your setup.
• Feature Requirements: Do your requirements include basic calling features or advanced functionalities like video conferencing, call recording, and integration with other business tools?
• Budget: Desk phones range from budget-friendly models to high-end options packed with features. Set a realistic budget and explore phones that offer the best value within your price range.

2. Size Matters

The physical footprint of your desk phones can make a significant difference, especially in smaller offices or shared workspaces.

• Compact vs. Expansive: Consider the available desk space and choose phones that fit comfortably without feeling cramped.
• Expansion Options: If you anticipate future growth, look for phones with expansion modules or connections for multiple handsets for added flexibility.

3. User-Friendly Interface

A phone with a clear display and intuitive buttons can significantly enhance productivity and user experience.

• Display: Consider phones with high-resolution displays that are easily read, even from a distance.
• Buttons and Navigation: Ensure the buttons are well-spaced, tactile, and labelled clearly for effortless operation.
• Ergonomics: Consider phones with adjustable angles and comfortable handsets for prolonged use.

4. VoIP Compatibility

Compatibility is paramount if you’re using a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone system.

• Check Compatibility: Ensure the desk phones you’re considering are certified to work seamlessly with your VoIP provider.
• Feature Integration: If you rely on advanced VoIP features, confirm that the phones support those functionalities.

5. Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Tap into the collective wisdom of other users before making your final decision.

• Online Reviews: Read customer reviews on reputable websites and e-commerce platforms to get insights into real-world experiences.
• Expert Opinions: Consult technology blogs and publications for expert recommendations and comparisons.
• Peer Recommendations: Ask colleagues or other businesses in your network for their insights and experiences.

You must carefully consider these factors to select the best office desk phones that align with your business needs, budget, and user preferences.

The right communication tools can significantly enhance productivity, collaboration, and business success.

Recommended Desk Phones

• Grandstream GXP1625: This model is an excellent choice for budget-conscious businesses seeking a primary yet reliable desk phone. It offers essential features like call forwarding and voicemail, making it perfect for small offices or individual users.
• Grandstream GXP 2160: If you require a more advanced phone with a modern touch, the GXP 2160 is a great option. It boasts a colour LCD screen and supports additional features like video conferencing, enhancing communication capabilities.
• Grandstream DP720/750: The DP720/750 is a top contender for businesses seeking maximum flexibility and scalability. Its DECT cordless technology allows you to add multiple handsets to a single base station, making it ideal for growing teams and dynamic work environments.

The top recommendations will allow you to select the perfect desk phones to enhance business communication.

You must also consider your needs when choosing the best business phone number.

Step 5: Monitor and Optimise

Now that you have set up your business phone number, the next step is to ensure that your communication system continues to meet your evolving business needs.

It’s important to monitor and optimise its performance regularly.

• Track Call Analytics: Call analytics tools provide valuable insights into call volume, duration, peak hours, and more. Use this data to identify trends, optimise staffing levels, and make informed business decisions.
• Gather Customer Feedback: Encourage your customers to provide feedback on their calling experience. This can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure you’re providing top-notch service.
• Review Feature Usage: Periodically review the features you’re using and identify any underutilised tools that could benefit your business.

Effective communication is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

Actively monitoring and optimising your business phone system will help you enhance your communication capabilities and stay ahead of the curve.

Get a Business Phone Number – Start with a FREE 7-Day Trial.

You can start with a 7-day trial by clicking the link below to experience the convenience and reliability of the service before committing.

If you’re not completely satisfied, you can cancel within the trial period with no obligations or hidden fees.    

Getting a professional business phone number with Air Landline is a breeze.

Let’s walk through the simple process:

Step 1: Choose Your Area Code

First, decide where you want your business to be virtually located. Air Landline offers 100% UK coverage, so you can select any local area code that suits your business needs.

Whether you want to establish a presence in a bustling city or a charming countryside town, the choice is yours.

Step 2: Link Your Number

It’s time to connect your new landline number to your existing mobile phone(s). Provide the mobile numbers you want to link, and Air Landline will do the rest.

You’ll receive an email with your shiny new business phone number within minutes.

You can then log into your account to customise your settings, including setting up a professional welcome message, choosing hold music that reflects your brand, and enabling call recording for future reference.

Step 3: Start receiving calls!

It’s time to announce to the world that you have a new business number!

Update your website, social media profiles, business listings, and other relevant platforms with your Air Landline number.

Air Landline Business Phone Features

Air Landline isn’t just about getting a business phone number; it’s about empowering your business with features designed to streamline communication and enhance professionalism.

Some advanced features make Air Landline the best virtual landline number.

• Custom Hold Music

Nobody enjoys being put on hold. However, Air Landline’s custom music hold feature can make the experience less tedious. You can choose from tracks or upload your music to create a more pleasant and on-brand experience for your callers.

• Call Recording

Air Landline lets you capture and store conversations for future reference. In this way, you can provide training, resolve disputes, and keep track of client interactions.

• Call Forwarding

Maintain business continuity even when you’re on the move. Air Landline seamlessly diverts your business calls to your mobile phone, enabling you to stay connected and responsive wherever you are.

This feature allows you to maintain a professional image while enjoying the freedom to conduct business on the go.

• Auto Attendant

Create a polished first impression with Air Landline’s Auto Attendant. This virtual receptionist greets your callers with a professional, customisable message and efficiently directs them to the appropriate department or extension.

You can impress your clients with a seamless and organised call experience outside regular business hours.

• Answering System

Missed calls can translate to missed business opportunities. Air Landline’s Answering System ensures that every call is captured, even when you’re unavailable.

• Voicemail Transcriptions

With voicemail transcriptions, you get to review messages on the go quickly.

This way, you get to keep track of customer enquiries and ensure no opportunity slips through the cracks.

• Local and National Phone Numbers

Choose a local area code that resonates with your target market to build customer trust and credibility. Alternatively, opt for a national number to project a wider reach.

Air Landline’s flexibility in number selection empowers you to tailor your business presence to your specific needs and target audience.

• Business Calls Heads up

Take advantage of every crucial business call amidst the flurry of personal calls. Air Landline’s Business Calls Heads Up feature helps you identify incoming business calls with a distinct ringtone or notification.

This lets you prioritise calls from clients or partners, ensuring critical business interactions receive your attention.

• Business Voicemail

Leave a lasting impression with a customised voicemail greeting that reflects your brand’s personality.

You get to access and manage your voicemail messages effortlessly through intuitive means. The voicemail features to ensure your callers feel valued and heard, even when you get to answer immediately.

• Business Welcome Message

With Air Landline, you get to greet your callers with a polished, professional welcome message that sets the tone for your business.

This customisable message replaces the standard ringing tone, instantly conveying a sense of credibility and care.

• Multiple Mobile Diverts

With Multiple Mobile Diverts, you can enhance collaboration and responsiveness within your team.

Additionally, you can route incoming calls to multiple mobile phones simultaneously or sequentially, ensuring calls are answered promptly if one team member is unavailable.

This feature promotes teamwork and ensures a seamless customer experience.

• Out-of-Hours Voicemail

Air Landline allows you to maintain business continuity outside regular office hours.

With out-of-hours call forwarding, you can redirect calls to a different number or voicemail when your business is closed. This ensures your customers can always reach you, even when you cannot answer the phone.

• Custom Greetings

Add a warm and personal touch to your business communication with Air Landline’s Custom Greetings.

You can also tailor your welcome messages for different times of day, occasions, or specific departments, creating a more engaging and memorable experience for your callers.

• Holiday Voicemail

Even when you’re away, maintain a professional image with a Holiday Voicemail. Set up a special voicemail greeting during holidays or absences to inform callers about your unavailability and expected return date.

How do you switch business numbers over to Air landline?

Air Landline is more than just a virtual phone system. It’s a powerful tool that empowers businesses to communicate effectively, efficiently, and professionally.

Switching your existing business numbers to Air Landline is a straightforward process that can benefit your organisation and employees.

Email us the number you’d like to transfer, once the transfer completes, it’ll replace the number you were assigned during sign up.

There are no porting fees. It’s only £9.99 a month (+VAT) for each landline number you host with us.

Examples of UK Business Phone Numbers

• 01/02 Geographic Numbers: These are traditional landline numbers associated with specific geographic locations.
• 03 Non-Geographic Numbers: These numbers aren’t linked to a specific location and are often used by government agencies, charities, and businesses with a national presence.
• 08 Freephone Numbers: These numbers are free for callers to dial from landlines and mobiles, making them ideal for customer service and support lines.

What will happen to landlines in 2025?

In 2025, traditional landlines in the UK will begin to phase out. Major telecom providers are transitioning to digital phone lines, which rely on internet connections instead of copper wires.

This shift means businesses relying on traditional landlines must find alternative solutions.

Air Landline provides a seamless transition, allowing you to keep your existing number while enjoying the benefits of a modern, cloud-based phone system.

Benefits of Having a Business Telephone Number

A dedicated business phone number is more than just a contact detail. It offers several advantages that contribute to your company’s success:

1: Professionalism and Credibility

A business phone number instantly adds a layer of professionalism and credibility to your company.

It separates your personal and business communications, creating a clear distinction for your customers and clients. This fosters trust and demonstrates that you’re serious about your business.

2: Enhanced Accessibility and Flexibility

With Air Landline, your business phone number isn’t tied to a physical location or device. You can answer calls from anywhere with mobile signal (you don’t need to be connected to the internet), using your mobile phone, laptop, or any other compatible device.

This flexibility allows you to stay connected with your customers and never miss an important call, even when you’re on the move.

3: Cost Savings and Scalability

Air Landline offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional landlines. You can avoid expensive hardware and software, installation fees, and maintenance costs associated with traditional phone systems.

Additionally, Air Landline is highly scalable, allowing you to easily add or remove lines as your business grows without disrupting your service.

How do you get a virtual number for WhatsApp?

• Step 1: Select Your area code: Select your desired area code, add the mobile number you want to divert calls to and add your email address
• Step 2: Sign Up & Start your Free Trial: Sign up and start your 7 day free trial!
• Step 3: Verify Your Number on WhatsApp:  Install Business WhatsApp, enter your virtual number during registration. Landline numbers can not receive text messages, so you’ll want to choose the call verification method, answer the call immediately and enter the code.

Click here for a complete Business WhatsApp step by step installation guide.

Different Types of Phone Numbers

Businesses can choose from various phone number types, each with unique characteristics and benefits.

Understanding these options can help you select the best fit for your business needs and target audience.

Type 1: Local Numbers (01/02)

Local numbers are associated with specific geographic areas. They start with the area code of the chosen region, creating a sense of local presence and familiarity for customers in that area.

This can be particularly beneficial for businesses targeting a specific regional market or those relying on foot traffic.

Type 2: National Numbers (03)

National numbers aren’t tied to a specific location. They are ideal for businesses with a national presence.

Using a national number can project a broader reach and make your business appear more accessible to customers from various regions.

Type 3: Freephone Numbers (0800/0808)

Freephone numbers are free for callers to dial from landlines and mobiles.

This makes them an excellent choice for customer service centres and support lines as they encourage customers to reach out to customer services without worrying about call charges.

It can also enhance your company’s image as customer-centric and approachable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Takeaway – Get a Business Phone Number

A business phone number is valuable for any business, regardless of size or industry.

It enhances professionalism, improves accessibility, and provides a range of features to streamline your communication.

With Air Landline, you can easily acquire a business number and enjoy the benefits of a cutting-edge, cloud-based phone system without the hassle of traditional landlines.

So, take the first step today and elevate your business communication to the next level.