Startups in Australia have been thriving in the last few years. In 2022, the country was included among the best countries for startups globally. Australia’s legal and commercial infrastructure and market dynamics all help give the country a favourable climate for startups.
Among Australia’s infrastructure business owners use are 1300 numbers, which have become essential for various business types, not just startups. These are virtual phone numbers consisting of 10-digit numbers that a company can use to receive calls from all over Australia. These numbers have soared in popularity in recent years among businesses in the country.
So, what exactly are 1300 numbers, and why should you get one? Read on.
An overview of 1300 numbers
A 1300 number isn’t tied to a specific phone. The technology makes it possible for incoming calls to be redirected to other phone lines. When an individual calls a 1300 number, the call reaches a virtual telecom network.
This virtual network automatically routes the call to the other network hosting the number. This automatic routing capability gives options to route calls to multiple “answer points.” These answer points include mobiles, landlines, answering services or fax machines.
These designated answer points can receive calls from anywhere in Australia. The calls, however, cost the same as a local call. As they cost the same as a standard local call, 1300 numbers are also referred to as local call numbers.
The phone company will charge it only as a local call, even if the caller is from Perth calling a company in Brisbane. The call is also considered local for those using mobiles, but the rate will depend on their mobile phone carrier.
For a business in Australia, a 1300 number eventually becomes an essential aspect of marketing and branding strategy. For your startup, one of your first considerations should be to find out how to get a 1300 number.
Reasons to get a 1300 number
Getting a 1300 number for your company is most likely one of your best investments. There are many other reasons for your startup to get a 1300 number besides helping your long-distance clients save money when they need to call you. These reasons are discussed below:
- Improving customer service
In Australia, 99% of customers would rather not speak to a robot when shopping. Moreover, not all customers’ queries can be answered by chatbots which not all companies have. There are even companies that don’t have contact phone numbers posted.
For customers, the lack of options for communicating with a business can be frustrating. Remember, customers prefer doing business with companies they can quickly contact. They wouldn’t bother with businesses that don’t seem to care for customers – at least not enough to provide contact numbers.
Getting your business a 1300 number will give your customers a vital service.
- Establishing a professional image
A 1300 number is a relatively inexpensive way of establishing your credibility. Most startups don’t have the big budget to launch a large-scale ad campaign. Having a 1300 number may be the next best thing – it’s inexpensive and assures the public your business is legitimate and managed by professionals.
Compared with a 1300 number, giving out mobile and landline phone numbers may look unprofessional. A 1300 number for your business shows potential clients that yours is a reliable and established company.
- Using 1300 numbers as part of marketing
Working with a limited advertising budget, you’d have to ensure your marketing return on investment (ROI) is acceptable.
The reporting tools included in the 1300 number help you track client data, such as frequency of calls, times of calls, duration, and location. Data like this can assist you in fine-tuning your ad and marketing campaign to your target audience more efficiently.
Additionally, phone words appended to a 1300 number make it easy to remember (for example, 1300 CALL US). Phone words are a huge help for your overall marketing campaign. They can identify your brand and increase brand awareness and sales opportunities and can ultimately result in increased revenues.
- Customisable call settings
Not only can you use phone words with your 1300 number, but you can also route calls to answer points. This capability helps you create different settings after business hours or on weekends, which makes managing inbound calls easier.
You can also create an automated response in your business’ online portal. Automatic replies can cater to queries that can be answered quickly, making your team focus on more complicated issues or requests.
- The convenience of using the same business number country-wide
Getting a 1300 number for your startup means you won’t need multiple numbers for each state. The 1300 number is used nationwide. Your business can reach people from other states, and as all calls cost the same as local calls, client inquiries from outside your local area will increase.
This expanded reach lets potential clients know your product or service is available wherever they are in the country.
- Number flexibility
Using landline phone numbers for your startup can often result in a few missed calls. Getting someone to answer calls might help, but chances are, landlines aren’t manned 24/7. With a 1300 number, your business won’t miss calls from your valued customers. As mentioned in the first part of this article, calls can be routed to numerous locations as 1300 numbers are cloud-based. Setting up an SMS is also possible.
Businesses also often relocate at some point. If you’re taking your business elsewhere and only have landline numbers, getting new ones can be a bother. Changing numbers means updating your directory listings and web pages. It could also mean getting new promotional materials. What’s more, your clients might look for another business when they find out your old numbers no longer work.
A 1300 number will always be yours no matter where you take your business in Australia.
Takeaway
For Australian businesses, the 1300 number is an essential aspect of marketing and advertising campaign. Getting one is increasingly becoming a necessity. A 1300 number can give your startup credibility, flexibility and convenience.
The virtual number can also be customised so that you won’t miss any inbound calls from your customers. For startups, a 1300 number is a wise investment.
