Hi everyone,

It's been a while since last I popped by, and it's nice to see so many new faces.

I'm trying to get my consultancy off the ground (beyond freelance contract work, which although steady, is not where I want to be, particularly). One thing I did earlier in the year was to make use of a telephone answering service, which charges on a per-call basis. I elected to use an 0845 number (for those outside the UK, that means it's a lo-call style number).

I'm just wondering whether this is a good thing or not, from the perspective of the customer (which in our my case would be a business). Or does it not matter a jot?

(as an aside, from time to time I've had to fend off cold-callers who have run up charges, due to not leaving messages and trying repeatedly to get hold of me, so for the moment I've gone back to a geographic number on the company website, with the 0845 still in printed materials).

Thanks,

John

With the exception of 0800, most people do not understand or trust 08 numbers as they are generaly not included in thier calling plan. For business use I would stick with geographic.

I originally gravitated towards the 0845 as it lent an air of 'gravitas' to the new business, and also it was provided by, and routes via, an outsource PA service which ensured that I wouldn't miss any calls.

The 0131 number I also have, is via Skype (as I have no fixed premises), and I'm not sure I trust it completely (long story)...