How Can I Get My Business an 020 London Number?

Many small business owners especially like the thought of an 020 number and there are plenty of advantages. But with landlines being switched off next year, traditional phone lines are a no-go from now on anyway. That’s why more and more small businesses are switching to a virtual 020 number using a VoIP phone system instead.

What Is a VoIP Phone System?

When you use a VoIP phone system, you make and receive calls in exactly the same way as you would a normal landline. However, instead of the sound being transmitted through copper wires, it’s sent in digital ‘packets’ across the internet instead. This not only protects your business from the impending landline switch-off, but tends to offer cheaper call costs, improved business features and clearer sound too.

Not only that, but VoIP phone systems can be used from any internet-connected device, including your smartphone or tablet which is ideal for working on the go. All you need is a stable internet connection, like Wifi (preferably fibre), 4G, or 5G.

Another great thing about VoIP is you can either keep your existing phone number, or get a virtual number that you choose yourself. This virtual phone number could have an area code for any area in the UK (including 020 for London) and your business doesn’t even need to be located in that area. 

What Is An 020 Number? 

In the UK, an 020 number is a geographic area code used for telephone numbers in either Central or Greater London. It’s often followed by a 7, an 8 or a 3. So when dialling within the UK, you would typically dial the area code (020) followed by the specific local number.

What Are The Advantages Of A Virtual 020 Number?

Having an 020 number for your business comes with some distinct advantages if you’re looking to build a presence or expand your reach within London and the surrounding areas. Advantages include:

Looking Like A Local – Having an 020 number gives your business a local presence in London, which can be really useful if you want to attract customers or clients from the London area. As mentioned, you don’t even need to have an office or workplace in London at all, you may actually be located somewhere completely different.

Perception – London phone numbers often have a perception of being associated with established or reputable businesses. This can help boost the trustworthiness, credibility and professionalism of your business in the eyes of potential customers.

No More Relying On Your Mobile – Carrying on the theme of looking professional, giving out your mobile number for your business doesn’t look as good. Plus there’s always the issue of signal black spots, a flat battery or customers ringing at all hours of the day or night. Not a great work/life balance.

Easier To Remember – As London is the UK capital, 020 area codes are something many people are familiar with. In turn this can make your business phone number more memorable.

Portability – Landlines are tied to one specific location, but virtual VoIP numbers are not. So if you decide to move your business to a new premises, or are looking to expand, you don’t need to worry about messing around with new landlines. And don’t forget, landlines are soon to be obsolete anyway.

Features – Depending on the VoIP provider you choose for your business, you’re likely to get a whole host of additional features to help your business run smoothly. In the case of bOnline for example, you can get things like call forwarding, voicemail, access to call analytics, hold music, video calling and much more. These can help streamline your business and add to your professional image. On top of that, you don’t need to worry about missing calls out of hours, or if you’re on holiday.

How Do I Get An 020 Number?

To get an 020 number you’ll need to sign up with a VoIP provider. There are quite a few out there so it’s worth doing your homework to find one that matches your needs and your budget. For example, bOnline only specialises in providing VoIP services to small businesses, freelancers and start-ups by tailoring their support to what you need.

Choose a Provider

Once you’ve looked around and made a shortlist of providers that would suit, compare the different features, pricing plans and customer reviews before making your final choice. If there are any  that offer a free trial with no commitment, all the better.

Sign Up

Once you’ve chosen a provider, sign up for an account on their website. You will likely need to provide some business and personal information during the registration process.

Choose a UK Number

After creating an account, you’ll usually be able to pick a number you want – as long as it’s not already taken. Look for an option to select a number with the 020 area code. You may need to contact their customer services to do this.

Set Up Your Number

Follow the provider’s instructions to set up your virtual 020 number. This may involve configuring call forwarding, voicemail, and other features according to your preferences.

Payment

Depending on the provider, you may need to choose a pricing plan and enter your payment information to activate your virtual number.

Test Your Number

Once your virtual 020 number is set up, test it to check that everything is working as expected. It’s a good idea to make test calls to make sure that calls are being forwarded correctly and that voicemail is working properly.

Start Using Your Number

Once everything is set up and tested, you’re ready to start using your virtual 020 number. Make sure to promote your new number to your contacts or customers as needed. You might also need to change any stationery or vehicle livery.

Quick tip: Even once you’re up and running, it’s worth regularly reviewing your usage and adjusting your VoIP plan or features if needed. It is possible you could save money on your small business VoIP. For example, are you now making more international calls that would justify a fixed price internal calls bolt-on? This can help to maximise the value you’re getting out of your 020 London phone number.