When you're running a small business, especially as a one-man band, you quickly realize how important it is to have a professional phone setup. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to figure out what’s best for your needs. Two common choices are business number redirects (like what we offer) and VOIP services. While they might seem similar at first glance, there are some big differences between the two that can make a huge impact on how you run your business.
In this guide, we'll break down exactly how business number redirects work, how they differ from VOIP, and why a straightforward call-forwarding service could be the right fit for your small business. We’ll skip the jargon and marketing fluff—this is about giving you the knowledge you need to make the best choice for your business.
What Is a Business Number Redirect?
A business number redirect is exactly what it sounds like—a local business number that forwards calls straight to your mobile. It’s a simple service that does one key thing: protects your personal number while allowing you to use a professional one.
Imagine you’re a window cleaner. You don’t want to plaster your personal mobile number on leaflets, websites, or social media, but you need a number for customers to contact you. A business number redirect gives you a professional, local number that customers can dial, and when they do, the call is forwarded to your mobile without them ever seeing your personal number. You can take the call on the go, just as if they had called your mobile directly.
What Is VOIP?
VOIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, which is just a fancy way of saying that your phone calls are made over the internet instead of through traditional phone lines. VOIP systems can be packed with features like call recording, video conferencing, and virtual assistants. But with all those features comes a level of complexity (and cost) that might be overkill for small, one-man businesses.
With VOIP, you often need apps, special software, or even new hardware to make and receive calls. Calls are made using the internet, so your call quality depends on your Wi-Fi or mobile data connection, which can be hit-or-miss depending on where you are.
How Business Number Redirect Differs from VOIP
Now that you know the basics of both, let's get into the real differences that matter when you're running a small business like window cleaning, plumbing, or mobile hairdressing. Here's why business number redirect might be a better option for you:
1. Simplicity
Business Number Redirect: There’s nothing complicated about this. You get a business number, and all calls to it are forwarded to your mobile. No apps, no software, no special devices. You don’t need to learn anything new; you just answer the phone like normal.
VOIP: With VOIP, you typically need to download apps or use special devices. Some systems even require training or a tech setup, which could be more hassle than it’s worth for a small operation.
2. Cost
Business Number Redirect: One of the biggest draws is the cost. With a business number redirect, you’re looking at just £39 a year. That’s it—no monthly fees, no hidden costs. It’s affordable and predictable.
VOIP: VOIP services usually come with monthly fees ranging from £15 to £20 per month, which adds up to over £200 a year. While VOIP might offer more features, most one-man businesses don’t need those extras. You’re paying for features you might never use.
3. Call Quality
Business Number Redirect: Since the call is forwarded directly to your mobile through traditional phone networks, you’re going to get consistent, reliable call quality. No worrying about Wi-Fi signals or dropped internet connections.
VOIP: VOIP relies on your internet connection, so if your Wi-Fi is weak, your call quality suffers. Dropped calls, delays, or fuzzy sound can become an issue—especially if you’re out and about and your mobile data signal isn't great.
4. Professionalism
Business Number Redirect: You’re still providing your clients with a professional number they can call. To them, it’s just like any other local business number. They don’t need to know it’s being forwarded to your mobile, and it gives you a more professional appearance without complicating your life.
VOIP: VOIP can also give you a professional business number, but it often comes with added steps and features that might be unnecessary for a one-man operation. It’s more of a full-service solution for businesses with multiple employees or offices.
5. Mobility
Business Number Redirect: Because calls are forwarded directly to your mobile, you can take business calls wherever you are—whether you’re out on a job, driving, or working from home. You’re free to move around and still stay connected to your clients.
VOIP: VOIP systems are mobile-friendly, but if your internet connection drops while you're on the go, so does your ability to make and receive calls. And let’s be honest—when you’re a tradesperson or small business owner, you’re always on the go, so reliability is key.
Which Is Better for You?
At the end of the day, whether a business number redirect or VOIP service is better depends on what you actually need. For most one-man-band businesses, the simplicity, reliability, and low cost of a business number redirect make it the clear winner.
VOIP might be useful if you’re running a larger operation with multiple employees or if you need advanced features like call recording or video conferencing. But for a one-man business? Those extras can feel like overkill—and you don’t want to spend extra time or money on something you don’t need.
With a business number redirect, you’re getting exactly what you need: a professional business number that keeps your personal number private, forwards calls to your mobile, and costs a fraction of what you’d pay for VOIP. It’s the no-fuss solution that fits perfectly with the on-the-go lifestyle of small business owners in the UK.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a simple, reliable way to look more professional and protect your privacy, a business number redirect is the way to go. It’s affordable, easy to set up, and works seamlessly with your mobile, no matter where you are. Plus, you won’t be stuck with the headaches that sometimes come with VOIP systems.
For small businesses, it’s all about efficiency. You want to run your business without overcomplicating things—and a business number redirect helps you do just that.