Setting up a private UK mobile number for your accountancy practice.
This is a quick video to show you how to get up and running with a new phone number for your accountancy practice. If you're starting an accountancy firm and don’t want to use your private number—avoiding calls at 10:00 PM, for example—you’ll need a separate number. It’s as simple as that.
Your Options
You have two options: a UK landline or a UK mobile number. UK landlines are being phased out and are quite limited, so I recommend a UK mobile number. With a mobile number, you can use WhatsApp Business, set up chatbots, and access various other features.
Getting Started
To get started, visit our website, click "Buy Now," and choose the type of number you want. In this case, we’re looking at UK numbers. Add one to your shopping cart, select the UK mobile number you’re interested in (there are plenty to choose from), and enter your email address. Once you’ve completed the purchase, you’re done! The process is quick, and you pay online.
Benefits of Using 2ndNumber
- Cloud-based service: No contracts, and it’s super affordable—just a couple of pounds per month.
- Added features: You can set up WhatsApp Business, create menu systems, and more. Menu systems allow you to set up welcome messages for callers, giving your practice a professional touch.
Using the Dashboard
Let’s take a look at the 2ndNumber dashboard. Once you’ve purchased your number, you’ll log in to the dashboard, which resembles WhatsApp. This is your text message dashboard, where you can view and send text messages. Most people use this for receiving verification codes or setting up apps like WhatsApp Business.
For example, when I signed up for WhatsApp Business, I received a verification text on my 2ndNumber. I then set up WhatsApp Business on my phone, creating a dedicated account for my accountancy firm. This ensures all business messages go to your professional number, not your personal one, which can quickly become overwhelming.
The dashboard also allows you to make phone calls through the web interface or install the app on your mobile for added convenience.
Setting Up a Menu System
To give your accountancy firm a professional edge, you can set up a menu system. This means callers won’t just hear a ringing tone—they’ll hear a message with options. For example:
"Thank you for calling Accounting Unlimited. Press 1 for accounting, 2 for billing, or 3 to speak to an agent."
You can customize the message, choose the accent (e.g., English, Australian, Irish), and set the tone. When callers dial your number, they’ll hear this menu and can select the appropriate option. You can also include details like office hours (e.g., "Our offices are open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM."). After the message, calls can be directed to voicemail, your mobile, or any other option you choose.
This menu system is my preferred option—it sounds professional and adds a polished touch to your business.
Call Diversion
Alternatively, if you want to keep things simple, you can divert all calls from your 2ndNumber to your personal mobile. To do this, go to the profile settings, enable call diversion, and enter your personal mobile number. When clients call your 2ndNumber, the call will be seamlessly redirected to your personal phone without them knowing.
This is a great way to maintain privacy while keeping things straightforward. When you publish your website or share your contact details on platforms like LinkedIn, use your 2ndNumber. Clients will call that number, and the calls will be diverted to your personal phone without them realizing it.
Next Steps
These are the first few steps to consider when setting up an accountancy firm. 2ndNumber offers even more features, like chatbots, but we won’t dive into those now. If you have any questions do reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
Why not choose 2ndNumber for your virtual number? Reach out to us now by chat or email or buy your 2ndNumber now.