Toll Free or “800” Numbers

Northern Communications can supply you with a North America wide toll free number terminated at our Contact Centre. The minimal cost is simply rolled into our regular services. Now you can reach people 24/7 anywhere in Canada or the United States.

Much has been written about the value of 800 numbers.  Basically, an 800 number is like calling someone collect, since they pay for the call instead of you.  Does an 800 number increase the chances of making a sale?  Let's explore this a bit.

Suppose you read an advertisement, or visit a web site that lists an 800 number where you can get more information.  Many times you get voicemail with a "canned" spiel, which, if you bother to listen to the whole thing, asks for your number so they can return your call.  At that point, many people simply hang up, as they don't want to give out their private number. The last thing they want is to be put on another telemarketing list. This tactic is used extensively in network marketing.  Does it work?  The jury is still out on this one.

Some, again on voicemail, make you fight your way through a maze of options - press 1 for this, 2 for that, and so on.  Some don't even give the option of talking with a live person.  If you don't select one it simply starts the option selection process again.  - The jury is in on this one. The owner of this 800 number will pay for a lot of calls, that simply frustrate the caller and will never result in a sale. What a waste!

If you're a client of Northern Communications, you get a real person who answers the phone, and who can help.

Do 800 numbers have a place in your business plan?  Sure! If you are product oriented, a toll free order line is essential. People may hesitate to pay a toll for a product they wish to order. If you are service oriented, it is a must for technical support. With long waiting times for help, it would be a real turn off if one weren’t available.

Call us for information on how we can increase your reach across the continent!

Send mail to info@northerncom.com with questions or comments about this web site.