Newsletter Archive

It's Friday so it's time for The Internet 800 Directory's Newsletter. I want to start with an important announcement. As you know, toll free prefixes 800, 888 and 877 are already available. On Saturday, July 29 they will be opening up a new exchange (866). Some of you might be thinking, "I already have my toll free number, why should I care if they are adding a new prefix." Let me cover some reasons why you might want to call and obtain another toll free number for your business.

First we need to talk about vanity numbers and how they can help your business. The reason you use a vanity number is to help people remember how to contact you. One of the most famous vanity numbers I know of is 800-THE-CARD. For some of you, numbers like 800-HOT-LOVE might be more familiar. The key is, both of these numbers are easy to remember, making them perfect for radio, television, newspaper, and billboard ads. Even if you don't spend a lot of money on advertising, a good vanity number can help your customors remember you and your service.

The release of this new prefix is vastly different from when 888 and 877 were released. In the past, holders of the higher exchanges were able to reserve the newly released version of their current toll free numbers. It appears the new prefix (866) reservation will be wide open, with no numbers held back like before. In other words, this is "first come, first served". The release begins on July 29 at 12 p.m.

If having read this, you now want to add a new toll free number, let me give you some helpful hints.

1.Call your carrier as soon as possible(NOW!). You may have to educate your long distance provider, so be prepared. I am always amazed by how little many of these companies know of changes within their own industry.

2.Prepare a list of several numbers you would be happy with. This increases your chances of getting a "good" number.

Like in all things, there are many services that can help you with this process. A company that specializes in these services has a banner on our web site at: http://inter800.com/800info.htm

All Contents Copyright ©1995-2001 The Internet 800 Directory