I am looking into getting a 1-800 number. is it useful, or will i rely more on Skype and video conferencing?

I have a 1800 number (and an UK 0800 number too) as I figure it's another reason why someone may call me over a competitor who has a mobile or normal landline number.

I actually use mine with Skype... I have two Skype-In numbers which are linked with the freephone numbers and then I usually have them forward to my mobile.

HTH

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Bridie's Typing Services - specialising in transcription services
The professional's choice

That depends a lot on what kinds of services you offer.

For example, someone who offers call answering, appointment setting, project management, reminder services, nonprofit assistance--especially when handling calls from a client's customers as well as business-to-business--will definitely need an option that the general public will recognize. Not everyone is familiar and comfortable with videoconferencing.

On the other hand, if you plan only to work with tech-oriented people, video/Skype may be all you need.

Remember there's also the question of what YOU prefer and need based on your work style. I communicate through email almost exclusively (except when vetting new projects/clients) because I don't usually work during normal business hours. Sometimes my computer's not on at all until evening. However, I still want my potential clients to have a phone option, so I have a toll-free number. A standard phone that doesn't require a computer connection to use just makes more sense for me.

If you do decide to get a toll-free, I recommend Kall8. (BTW, I'm not an affiliate or anything, just a very pleased customer.) I pay less than $3/month to keep my 888 number and only pay extra per-minute of actual call time.

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AnnaLisa Michalski, Sunny Words Writing Services

That is great information! Thank-you for your feedback. I look forward to joining the ranks of successful VA's - and hopefully helping others.

A Whiteley

This is interesting to me--do you really find that people still expect 800 numbers? With so many "unlimited everything" phone plans out there, people no longer think of long distance phone calls as expensive. I know that I don't expect 800 numbers. So it's surprising to me that you are finding a different trend.

Interesting. I'll have to think about whether I need an 800 number..

Thank you!

Julia