There may come a time when you decide to change your business’s phone number. This does not have to a huge hassle if you plan ahead how to handle the switchover. One of your most important concerns is how to inform clients, the general public and those within your establishment what your new number is.

One of the first things you must do is to give a warning notice that you will soon be switching numbers. Consider sending a mailer or email message to all those involved about the switch. The notice should include a statement that you will be sending a second notice containing the new number. This keeps everyone informed and aware of the upcoming change.

If you have picked out a special number in advance with the phone company, pre-print new business cards for all employees with the new number. Have them bring in the older cards to be destroyed so that there is no confusion. You should also do the same with the company letterhead and related paperwork.

Ideally, you should have a crossover period during which both numbers will reach you. You can use this period to inform your clients and partners of the switchover and of the new number, minimizing the number of people potentially caught unaware.

Inform your advertising team and technical support team of the change. Your advertising team can put your company’s new number on any media advertising that you use, giving the public the heads up on the new number. Your technical support team can ensure that the number is updated on your website, email headers and related communication channels.

By having a plan in advance and keeping everyone informed, you can make the change to a new phone number is hassle and headache free. This saves you time and allows you to concentrate on more important matters.

Image: Jerad Bitner