800# needed? (credit card, monthly fee, internet business, corporation)

[Global Friend]

I've had my internet business for several yrs and pay a monthly fee for an 800#. I also have a non #800 thats only for business. Do you think I really need the 800# anymore? Do people care? Most people use their cell or have a home phone plan that includes long distance, right?

[user_id]

I think it would depend on your demographic, the younger demographic is unlikely to care whether its a 800 or not. But the older folks even if they have cellular phones often what to call 800 numbers.

I don't even provide a phone number to the public, though it does appear on their credit card statement so I will get calls here and there.

[grimace8]

Originally Posted by Rapture

I've had my internet business for several yrs and pay a monthly fee for an 800#. I also have a non #800 thats only for business. Do you think I really need the 800# anymore? Do people care? Most people use their cell or have a home phone plan that includes long distance, right?

you probably don't need it anymore. jmo. oh, and read this: Cell Phones Won’t Be ‘Listed Property’ Much Longer

[daddiesgirl]

I have ran two separate internet businesses before and you don't need it these days. With the advent of VOIP and Internet phones like Ooma, Skype, and even the rates of cell phones these days, it's a cost that is worth cutting because no one really cares about the minimal cost to call. Unless you're a huge corporation where customer service is absolutely essential with millions of customers worldwide, it might make sense to, but if you're a small retailer or business owner, your demographics and market is probably not worth the trouble.

[bncimarketing]

So far I haven't found a need for the 800 number. My business is centered on providing Local Internet Marketing Services for small business. Most of my clients are local and there for are not concerned about an 800 number. Additionally, Google Places prefers the business have a local number as opposed to a toll free number.

I also did quite a bit of internet business, and found most customers preferred to email rather than call, so again, the 800 number was not necessary.