Virtual Office Systems See Popularity Grow

When starting a new company, there are many decisions to be made on communications, advertising, marketing, and customer service. Toll free phone service combined with virtual office systems streamlines management needs and reduces communications costs. With a toll free phone system that mimics corporate phone set-ups, any small business can have comprehensive telephone connections without having to install any new equipment or purchase new set-ups. We are finding that virtual office systems are becoming more and more popular, especially as companies attempt to keep their staff costs down.

Shortage + Demand = Crisis

Telecommunications industry sources now say an unthinkable embargo on new toll free phone service in the United States is a real possibility within the next year. Facing a severe shortage of available 800-numbers, a skyrocketing demand for toll free service and an emerging black market for 800 numbers, insiders say officials feel they are left with no choice but to impose an embargo.

Read more here.

Using Every Tool In The Marketing Box

Using Every Tool In The Marketing Box. Economic downfalls in 2009 and the first half of 2010 has led to the closings of thousands of retail stores and service companies with costly office overhead.  However, many of these companies have stayed profitable through phone and web sales. The majority of sales from catalog and websites are still made through toll free phone calls. And these days, large chain stores like WalMart and Target offer shoppers the convenience of buying over the phone. Toll free has helped many retail companies, large and small, stay afloat during this recession.

Free Cell Service for the Less Fortunate

Free cell phones are now being provided to needy residents of the U.S. The program is called SafeLink and is intended for low-income families and anyone receiving Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income and other government assistance programs. Safelink is being hailed as a safety program for those who cannot afford phones to stay in touch with children and family or who may need to contact police and medical personnel.
For more information on the free cell phone program go to SafeLink.com or call 1-800-977-3768.

More Realtors Using Toll Free Numbers

Home prices and sales dropped again in the first quarter of 2010. Realtors throughout the country are tackling the ongoing housing crisis by offering toll free phone numbers. This marketing trend is aimed at helping struggling homeowners contact real estate agents without the burden of costly phone calls. By offering a 1-800 number, realtors can help cash-strapped sellers negotiate a quick sale before they fall into a foreclosure situation. Homeowners in trouble can reach out for free and discuss all their sales options with an experienced realtor.

IRS Provides Toll Free Number for Citizens

Tax day has come and gone for 2010, but for some people, dealings with taxes may not be done. Toll free numbers have been established by the IRS for people who didn’t file by April 15, want to check the status of your refund, or who are unhappy with the amount of the refund.
The IRS has set up 1-800-829-1954 for taxpayers to seek assistance for refund information: 1-800-TAX-FORM to alter information on your submitted tax form: and 1-877-777-4778 for general assistance.

Toll Free Service Utilizes Fiber-Optics

As the use of toll free phone service grows at record rates, the popularity of fiber optic toll free service is now far exceeding that of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service.

In fact, recent news reports indicate that many companies are dropping VoIP systems and replacing them with fiber optic service, the most advanced technology available.

Read more here.

Toll Free Number Becomes New Office

Not too long ago there was an article in the Times about the new trend toward mobile offices replacing the traditional office space. Professionals and salespersons are ditching their expensive office space and running their business from their cars. With a laptop, cell phone and a toll free number, they can travel anywhere and stay in touch with clients. No rent, no utility bill. Everything they need is in their vehicle and with a toll free number, customers and clients can reach them anywhere at any time. When they go home, the whole office goes inside with them.

Additional Toll Free Phone Number For Spanish-Speaking Callers

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has just announced that they have added a new feature: an additional toll free hotline where Spanish-speaking residents can get information about pesticides. It is a good idea for all types of businesses to obtain a second toll free telephone number dedicated specifically for Spanish-speaking customers and clients. This is trend we have seen grow in recent years in the industry and it is a worthwhile one.

Toll Free Keeps Stressed Businesses Afloat

Economic stress in late 2009 and the first half of 2010 has led to the closings of thousands of retail stores. Nonetheless, many of these companies have stayed profitable through phone and web sales. The majority of sales from catalog and websites are still made through toll free phone calls. And these days, large chain stores like WalMart and Target offer shoppers the convenience of buying over the phone (800-966-6546 WalMart; 800-440-0680, Target). Toll free has helped many retail companies, large and small, stay afloat during this recession.