The statistics have shown how a good 800 vanity number can deliver double digit increases in response rates and closing ratios, and clearly the credibility and branding advantages are priceless. But what makes a good 800 vanity number?

The answer really depends on what position you plan to hold in the market. If you are aiming to use your new vanity number to take over an industry and become the "go to" source for every consumer looking for your type of product, then of course the more generic your vanity number is, the better. For example: 1-800 FLOWERS, 1-800 CONTACTS, or 1-800 MORTGAGE. Of course the 800 number version of your desired number may already be taken. If it is too expensive for you to acquire nationwide, can you acquire the 800 number for your local region or use one of the other toll free number prefixes if the 800 version is not being marketed well? The launch of the new 855 number prefix could be the perfect opportunity for you to capitalize on having a new vanity number.

The above strategy for dominating your industry with your toll free numbers is not always an immediate option if you are a new player with a limited budget facing established giants. In this case, a strategy of taking down the industry piece-by-piece is often much more cost-effective, thereby enabling you to focus all of your energies and resources on one segment at a time. In this case, your 800 vanity number should be targeted at your primary niche market and convey your advantages over your competitors. Are your rates and costs lower than competitors? Are you faster? Even if you actually have none of these advantages, it is all about positioning and marketing. If you are in the finance industry, ideas for your 800 vanity number could include: 800-FASTLOAN, 800-LOWRATES, or 800-EZLOANS. Whatever your choice for your 800 vanity number, it should be easy to remember and differentiate you from the competition. Reserve your great vanity number and make sure you put it to great use. Many incredibly successful operations have been built around the strength of their 800 vanity numbers alone.