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NUMBER'S UP FOR CALLS ; TOP BIZ TIPS BIZ BUREAU EXPERT HELP for your business [Mirror (UK)](Mirror (UK) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Businesses that use 084 and 087 numbers have just over a week left to change them as new EU rules come into force. From June 13, callers must not pay more than the basic rate to call an organisation. Time to act if you haven't changed numbers yet and it won't be a massive headache if you follow these few easy steps from Alex Kinch, CEO of Ziron: Decide if you want to 'keep' your number - you can just change the beginning from 084/087 to 034/037 and keep the rest of your number the same. If you want to do this, your existing provider should be able to manage this for you. If you want a new number (and there are advantages to seeing what great numbers are available) then it's best to shop around. Reputable numbering providers are listed on the Internet Telephony Services Providers Association (ITSPA) website at itspa.org.uk. You then need to decide if you want to opt for a geographic number, such as 01, 02, a 030, 033 number or a freephone number such as 08/05. Obviously freephone numbers offer the best value to consumers, but it's important to note that there are price rises due in September which will make them very expensive for businesses that have a lot of inbound call traffic. Once you have your new number in place, it's important to update your website/email signatures and communicate them to customers. You can run the numbers at the same time to ensure that there is no disruption, but after June 13 the 084 and 087 numbers must not be live. If you are worried, your provider should be able to put a recording in place advising callers of your new number. (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |