How to set up or switch business phone line

If you need to set up a new business phone line or switch your existing business phone line, the tech-enabled connectivity experts at Bionic can help you from start to finish. To get started, give us a call or enter your postcode and we’ll get right back to you.

What is a business landline?

A business landline is a phone line that transmits signals from audio data through something physical, like a wire or fibre optic cable, rather than wireless transmission.

How to choose your business landline

There are a number of things to consider when choosing your business landline provider. Even if you’ve got a landline already in place at your business premises, it could be worth switching to a supplier who offers cheaper calls or a better service. 

What to consider when comparing business landline deals

Here are some things to consider when choosing your new business landline provider or contract.

Cheaper business phone calls

As with your home phone line, your business phone bill will be split into two parts - call charges and line rental - and it’s always worth looking to cut costs when choosing a new business phone provider.

One thing that might surprise you when comparing rates, is that business landline charges are generally cheaper than household landline charges - so don’t assume you’ll save money by sticking with a domestic line at your workplace. Even if you work from home, it could be worth considering a business phone deal, depending on how and when you use your phone.

If you use your mobile more than your landline, it might be worth looking to see if you can save money with a business SIM only deal.

Additional phone line features 

Business landline packages often come with a range of features as standard that can make office life a little easier - such as voicemail, last caller (1471) and withheld number (141) - along some optional extras, like caller waiting, reminder call and ring back

The price of your package will depend on the features you need for your business. If you’re unsure exactly what you’ll need, the tech-enabled experts at Bionic will be able to talk you through what’s on offer, to make sure don’t take out any unnecessary extras.

Dedicated customer service

Business landline customers benefit from a dedicated, priority support line. This means that if you run into any issues, you should be able to get them sorted quickly, to reduce any downtime or inconvenience.

When comparing deals, it’s worth checking out the levels of customer support that are offered as part of your package.   

Line rental costs

Almost all business landline packages will come with a line rental charge built in. Line rental does exactly what it says on the tin - it's the charge you have to pay the telephone company to use their phone cables. Business landline rates will vary depending on the level of service you require.

How to set up or switch business landline 

The good news is that the tech-enabled experts at Bionic will cut through the jargon to help you figure out exactly what you need to keep your business connected. And we’ll have you switched in three simple steps:

1. Tell us about your business landline needs online - We use smart data to avoid you having to answer endless questions.
2. We’ll speak to you to find the right business landline package - We’ll help you choose the right business landline in a short call. We can also look at business mobile and business broadband deals, to see if you can save even more money.
3. You can leave the rest to us - If you decide to switch business landline with Bionic, we’ll take care of everything for you, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

If you're setting up a new connection, your new business phone line provider will get in touch with you to arrange the installation of your service. You will only need to have a new line put in if there are no existing lines at your business premises, but this is very rare.

If you're switching your business phone line, you will barely notice it happen. No physical work needs to be carried out, so you'll only notice the switch once you start receiving your cheaper phone bills.

What is a business landline?

A landline is a phone that carries signals through a physical object, like a wire or fibre optic cable. A landline is different from your mobile (which carries signals wirelessly). A business landline is the same as a home landline, but it's just used for business purposes. A lot of businesses choose to have a landline as it ties their company to a single geographic location. 

How do business phone systems work?

Business phone systems work by using internet routing mechanisms. As a result, your business phone networks and internet systems become one. The network carries more data which can make it more efficient and cost-effective.

Will your connection be interrupted?

Many of our customers are concerned that their business phone line service will be interrupted if they switch. Thankfully, phone line switches are almost always seamless and, if your landline supplier is concerned that any downtime will occur, they will make sure the switch takes place outside of business hours.

And of course, you can keep your existing phone number, even if you switch. To find out more, give the tech-enabled experts at Bionic a call.

How do I set up a landline for my business?

In order to set up a landline for your business, you need to be clear on what kind of number you want your customers to reach you on. 

You also need to do your research and compare different providers. Each will have different deals and prices. Once you've narrowed down your search, your provider will handle the set up of your new landline and provide you with all the information in order to hit the ground running. 

How do I get a business phone number?

It's quite simple to get a phone number for your business. It's worth checking with your current mobile or internet provider, because they may be able to offer you a landline included in your current tariff, or add one for a small fee.

There are a few different options when navigating business phone numbers, so carefully consider each. Then all you need to do is compare providers on their individual websites to get the best deal. The main types of business phone numbers to consider are:

Local numbers

The first type of business number is a local phone number. If you choose this option, it includes an area code and as well as a line number. You can get a local business number from your current phone company or through a virtual number provider.

Your provider will likely offer you a selection of phone numbers based on your company address, but you can request a different area code if you want. 

Freephone numbers

Toll-free numbers are also known as 0800 numbers and are often used in customer service centres. If you opt for a toll free number, you will be able to make and receive calls on your business phone, personal cell phone, web-based interface, or any other device linked to the number.

International numbers 

If your business is growing and you want to expand your presence to reach other countries, you might want to consider an international number. Some businesses like this option because you don't need to have an actual staff member in that specific country or region for it to be successful.

Vanity numbers

Vanity numbers can be local or toll-free. You can choose the digits of your number to spell out a word or create a unique combination that reflects your business. An example of a vanity number for a local florist could be 1-800-FLOWERS or something similar. 

Vanity numbers can be a fun way to boost your brand as customers are more likely to remember your company's memorable phone number. 

How do business phone systems work?

Business phone systems work in the same way as personal landlines. They transmit signals through a wire or cable and allow you to speak with whoever is calling the number. 

Although mobile phones are considered the more versatile form of communication, landlines can provide an anchor for your business and help your customers easily contact you through one number.

Not all businesses need or want a landline, but having one can help boost your presence as a brand if you have ties to a location and a central number to be contacted on. Once you've chosen which kind of phone number you want and picked a provider, they will do most of the set up for you.

Should you switch to VoIP?

If you're considering a new business landline, it's definitely worth considering switching to business VoIP - not least because standard copper phone lines and ISDN lines are to be phased out by 2025. This means all users will be switched from the old analogue public switched telephone network (PSTN) to a fully digital network. 

Not only will switching to VoIP help to future-proof your phone system, it will also offer the following features which could benefit your business:

• A quicker and more adaptable phone service 
• Cheaper call costs and no need to pay line rental at multiple sites
• A flexible and adaptable system that allows you to make calls from anywhere 
• Get conference calls, customer insights, call logging, and a virtual receptionist included in your package
• Make and receive VoIP calls in crystal clear HD quality sound

To make the switch to VoIP, get in touch with our connectivity team and they'll help you work out the perfect connectivity solution for your business.

How to become a Bionic business

Being a Bionic business is about more than simply getting a great deal on business energy, business connectivity or business insurance. It’s about working more intelligently using technology to empower your people - saving you time, money and increasing productivity.

Thousands of businesses like yours are already working smarter, and we’ve made it our mission to help others be Bionic.

So long as you’re a Bionic business, we’ll stay in touch to ensure you get the best deals, share the latest tech innovations to keep your business ahead of the rest, along with expert advice and stories from customers.

To find out more, enter your postcode and business name at Bionic.co.uk.