A virtual phone number can help you keep track of potential clients, current business needs, and upcoming events. Even better, you don't need to buy a second phone to enjoy the benefits of a virtual line!
But if you've never used a virtual phone number before, you might be wondering, "What is a virtual phone number, and how does it work?" Fortunately, we have the answers you've been looking for.
In this guide, we'll discuss what a virtual number is, how it works, and how you can choose a virtual line plan that works for your unique needs and budget.
Table of Contents
1. What Is a Virtual Phone Number?
2. How Do Virtual Numbers Work?
What Is a Virtual Phone Number?
A virtual phone number is a phone line that exists and is maintained online. This feature differentiates it from standard phone lines, which are tied to specific carriers and locations.
One of the primary benefits of virtual phone numbers is that they can easily make and receive phone calls while you're far away from home. Virtual lines are also easily automated, making them an excellent business tool.
You can utilize a virtual number using your current smartphone or accessing certain websites designed for virtual phone calls. That's because VoIP companies maintain virtual phone numbers.
While you won't be able to utilize a virtual number's features and benefits without internet access or a current data plan, you can use a virtual number without signing a contract with a wireless company.
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How Do Virtual Numbers Work?
When you sign up for a virtual number line, you're choosing to secure a specific phone number with an online source. This differs from getting a standard cellular number tied to a network.
If you decide to call someone using a virtual number, the call will be routed through a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) interface via an app or website. This allows you to make phone calls with an internet connection.
Once the protocol finds and confirms the target number, a phone call connection occurs. The same is true of incoming phone calls.
Essentially, you'll need a consistent internet connection (or a well-functioning data plan) to use a virtual number. But, so long as you're connected, you can enjoy low-cost calls to that number.
Why Get a Virtual Number?
Now that you're more familiar with how virtual numbers work, you might be wondering, "Why get a virtual number?" After all, most folks rely on their standard cellular phone number to receive and make calls.
There are two primary reasons why you might want to get a virtual number:
- Personal reasons, or
- Business reasons
Let's take a quick moment to discuss both. That way, you can decide whether a virtual number might be a wise investment for your business or personal matters.
Personal Reasons
If you're traveling abroad, you may want to consider investing in a virtual phone number. After all, many carriers don't support international phone calls or require you to unlock your phone before traveling internationally.
Instead of going through the hassle of contacting your carrier, unlocking your phone, and paying additional international phone service fees, you could enjoy easy virtual phone calls using a virtual number.
That said, one of the primary reasons why individuals choose to invest in virtual phone lines is business. After all, keeping track of your incoming calls, clients, and business needs can be challenging without a virtual number.
Business Reasons
Deciding to get a virtual business phone number could be one of the best choices you make for your company or business. That's because a virtual phone number is a budget-friendly way to access many services, including:
- Auto-Attendant
- Mobile Compliance
- A Secondary Business Line
If you're a small business owner looking to get your business off the ground, it's crucial to remain available to your clients and consumers. But without proper phone management, you can quickly lose track of things.
Some of the best virtual phone line companies offer a diverse array of services catered to meet your business's needs. These services include access to a mobile cloud phone system with auto-attendant features.
This can help you receive and field calls from clients without hiring a full-time phone receptionist. Mobile compliance services are also beneficial, particularly for businesses that record client correspondence.
And, naturally, having a secondary business line available to you could be one of the best ways to spread communication among your team. Rather than forcing all calls through one line, you could spread them out!
Remember, when multiple team members are answering calls and assisting clients, your business has the opportunity to grow more quickly and more steadily.
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iPlum Virtual Phone Lines
When looking for a virtual phone line, it's crucial to choose a company that offers precise solutions to your needs. Fortunately, iPlum provides some of the most diverse options for businesses and consumers.
So, whether you're looking to invest in an automated virtual line or an easier way to receive fax documents, be sure to consider iPlum. Each service and plan comes with an affordable pricing schedule to suit your budget.
Invest in a Virtual Number
A virtual phone number could be ideal for keeping in touch with clients or loved ones. Unlike standard numbers acquired through big-name wireless companies, virtual numbers are easy to set up.
As such, acquiring a virtual line might be the best way to grow your business or keep connected when far from home. Be sure to consider investing in one of the many iPlum virtual number services for your needs!
Do you have questions about how iPlum can help you attain the virtual phone number services you need? If so, please contact us today!
