Choosing a virtual business number is a smart move for startups, sole traders, and growing teams. It helps you look more professional, protect your privacy, and stay flexible – but not all providers are created equal
Here are the top five mistakes to avoid when choosing a virtual business number provider, so you can make the right choice the first time.
1. Focusing Only on the Price
It’s easy to go straight for the cheapest virtual number provider, but low cost often means limited features, poor call quality, or hidden fees. Your virtual business number is part of your brand, so it pays to get it right.
What to do instead:
Look beyond the monthly price. Compare what’s included, such as inclusive minutes, call forwarding, voicemail, or business hours settings. Paying a little more for a reliable virtual business number can save money (and stress) in the long run.
2. Not Checking Number Types and Coverage
Some providers only offer mobile-style or non-geographic numbers. If you want your business to appear local, you’ll need the option to choose a geographic landline number (like 020 for London or 0161 for Manchester).
What to do instead:
Make sure your provider offers the right type of virtual business number for your needs – whether that’s a local UK landline, an 03 national number, or a virtual mobile number. Bonus: Check if you can choose your area code.
3. Overlooking Call Handling Features
Your virtual business number should do more than just ring your phone. Features like call menus, call groups, voicemail-to-email, and business hour routing can make you sound more professional and help manage your calls efficiently.
What to do instead:
Choose a provider that includes or supports advanced call features. Even if you start simple, it’s helpful to have the option to upgrade to VoIP or add multiple users as your business grows.
4. Ignoring the Quality of Customer Support
When your number is tied to your business, you need support you can count on. If your number stops working or your calls aren’t coming through, slow or unresponsive support can cost you customers.
What to do instead:
Check customer reviews and look for clear support contact options. A good virtual business number provider should offer responsive help – whether it’s chat, email, or phone support.
5. Choosing a Provider Without Transparent Pricing
Some services advertise a low monthly fee, but then charge extra for essential features like voicemail or adding more users, or want to tie you into contracts which make it hard to be as flexible as you’d like. Others may not clearly show cancellation terms or how your data is handled.
What to do instead:
Look for a provider that’s upfront about pricing and terms. You should know exactly what your virtual business number includes and how much it will cost per month, with no nasty surprises.
What We Think
Your virtual business number is more than just a phone line – it’s part of how your customers see and interact with your brand.
To get the best results:
- Avoid chasing the lowest price without checking what’s included
- Make sure you choose a number type that matches your business needs
- Don’t underestimate the importance of features, scalability, and support
Ready to set up a virtual business number you can rely on? Check out Number People’s flexible offering or get in touch today to find out more.
