The Ultimate Guide to Using Virtual Phone Numbers with Zoom
There’s a significant change in business communication, and virtual phone numbers are at the center of it. For Zoom users, the appeal of integrating voice functionality with video conferencing is undeniable. However, Zoom’s global virtual phone number options might not adequately address your business's needs.
That’s where the story gets interesting. What if you could unlock more flexibility, broader global coverage, and seamless integrations—all without being tied to a single provider’s limitations?
The answer lies in understanding the landscape of virtual phone numbers, what Zoom offers—and, more importantly, how you can get more with an add-on like AVOXI.
Let’s take a look at how a Zoom virtual phone number works, how to use it, and why AVOXI might be the partner your business deserves.
What are virtual phone numbers?
Virtual phone numbers are telephone numbers that aren’t tied to a specific device, line, or location. These numbers operate across the internet, allowing businesses to make and receive calls from anywhere. It’s a modern twist on a classic concept that offers the flexibility that today’s global teams demand.
Think of a virtual phone number as your communication passport. Whether you use a toll-free number for domestic customers or a local line for international clients, a global virtual phone number allows your business to appear local without a physical presence. Integrating these numbers into tools like Zoom adds a new layer of connectivity to your video and voice communication strategy.
How does it all work? Virtual phone numbers rely on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to route calls over the internet instead of traditional telephone networks. This cuts costs and opens up features like call forwarding, call recording, and analytics—things that traditional numbers can’t compete with.
Virtual phone numbers offer businesses freedom, flexibility, and control. If your communication strategy involves connecting with clients and teams across borders, they’re a necessity, not just a convenience.
What’s the difference between virtual phone numbers and traditional numbers?
Traditional phone numbers link to a specific location and require physical infrastructure, such as landlines or SIM cards. In contrast, virtual phone numbers operate over the internet and offer unparalleled flexibility and portability.
Businesses can use virtual numbers to establish a local presence anywhere in the world, even if their operations are located elsewhere. Unlike traditional phone numbers, virtual numbers integrate seamlessly with VoIP phones, business phone systems, and contact center software.
Virtual numbers also simplify domestic calling, manage call queues, and enable real-time communications. Features like instant call routing and the ability to receive or make calls from mobile devices ensure that businesses remain connected, regardless of location.
For companies that see large call volumes, virtual numbers provide advanced call management tools and offer support for additional features like SMS capabilities and call analytics, which traditional phone systems often lack.
Does Zoom offer virtual phone numbers?
Yes, Zoom does offer virtual phone numbers through Zoom Phone—but only to an extent.
Zoom Phone is Zoom’s cloud-based telephony solution that allows users to integrate voice calling with the video conferencing platform. While it supports virtual numbers, its coverage is limited to specific countries and regions, making it less than ideal for businesses with a truly global reach. For those who want to connect seamlessly across borders, these limitations can become a significant roadblock.
Zoom’s virtual phone numbers are available in a mix of local, toll-free, and mobile options. Still, the list of supported countries is relatively short compared to leading virtual phone number providers.
To make things clearer, here’s a table breaking down the types of virtual phone numbers Zoom offers and some of the countries where they are available:
| United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada | Toll-free, local |
| Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Peru | Toll-free |
| Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom | Toll-free, local |
| Hong Kong SAR, New Zealand, Singapore | Toll-free, local |
While Zoom’s virtual phone numbers can work well for companies operating within these supported regions, the lack of mobile numbers and broader coverage can limit their utility for businesses that want to target a global audience.
This is where AVOXI shines. With its extensive coverage in more than 150 countries and versatile number types, AVOXI offers a robust alternative that complements Zoom’s capabilities while filling its gaps.
Business benefits of using a virtual phone number
Using virtual phone numbers offers businesses numerous advantages, especially in conjunction with modern platforms like Zoom. These advantages include:
- Improved accessibility and global reach: Virtual numbers eliminate geographical barriers and ensure that calls instantly route to the appropriate team or individual, even during a Zoom meeting or while employees work remotely.
- Seamless integration with modern communication tools: Virtual numbers can easily integrate with contact center or customer relationship management software, VoIP phones, and business phone systems, creating a unified communication experience.
- Enhanced call management features: Features like call queue management, advanced call routing, and real-time monitoring improve customer experience and operational efficiency.
- Portability and versatility: Virtual numbers are incredibly portable, meaning businesses can switch providers or relocate without changing numbers.
- Mobile-friendly communication: Employees can manage calls and messages from mobile devices for uninterrupted service, whether they’re in the office, working remotely, or on the go.
How to use virtual phone numbers with Zoom
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how you can effectively use virtual phone numbers with Zoom:
1. Purchase a virtual phone number
Start by obtaining a virtual phone number that suits your business needs. You can get local, toll-free, or mobile numbers, depending on your target audience. You have two options:
- Get a virtual phone number directly from Zoom: If you use Zoom Phone, you can purchase virtual phone numbers directly from the Zoom portal.
- Purchase a virtual number from a third-party provider: Many third-party providers, like AVOXI, offer virtual phone numbers that integrate seamlessly with Zoom. This route often provides more flexibility and features.
2. Integrate your Zoom virtual phone number
Once you’ve set up Zoom Phone, you can assign your virtual phone number to your account. For Zoom virtual phone numbers, this process is straightforward:
- Log in to your Zoom account.
- Navigate to the Phone System Management section.
- Select Numbers and click Add to assign a new virtual phone number to a user or department.
For external virtual phone numbers, like those that AVOXI provides, integration may require SIP trunking or similar protocols. These configurations are usually simple and well-documented by providers to ensure smooth integration.
3. Customize your settings
Virtual phone numbers come with features like call routing, voicemail, and Interactive Voice Response (IVR). You can customize these settings within Zoom Phone or your external provider’s portal to optimize call handling.
4. Start making and receiving calls
Once everything is set up, you’ll be ready to use your virtual phone number on Zoom. Incoming calls will route to designated devices, such as your desk phone, mobile phone, or computer. You can also use the Zoom Phone app to make calls using your virtual number.
The specific steps might vary slightly depending on your chosen provider and Zoom plan. If you need more detailed instructions, consult your provider’s documentation or contact Zoom support.
AVOXI makes it easy to use a custom phone number with Zoom
When it comes to integrating custom virtual phone numbers with Zoom, AVOXI simplifies the process while giving your business a significant edge. With its extensive global coverage, feature-rich platform, and user-friendly setup, AVOXI ensures that you get more out of your communication strategy.
Let’s break it down into three key areas:
Seamless integration
Integrating an AVOXI virtual phone number with Zoom Voice is straightforward, even for users who aren’t quite so tech-savvy. AVOXI provides clear documentation and support to ensure that connecting your custom phone number to Zoom’s system is hassle-free. With intuitive tools and a knowledgeable support team, AVOXI makes setting up your custom number as simple as following a few steps.
AVOXI numbers are also SIP-compatible, making them easily configurable with Zoom Phone.
Unmatched flexibility and features
AVOXI doesn’t just provide virtual phone numbers—it also equips you with a robust suite of tools to optimize your communication strategy. Once you connect your custom Zoom virtual phone number, you’ll gain access to features that enhance productivity and customer satisfaction, such as:
- Global reach: AVOXI offers coverage in over 150 countries, far exceeding Zoom’s native capabilities. This range allows you to establish a local presence anywhere in the world.
- Call forwarding and routing: To prevent missed calls, AVOXI routes incoming calls to the right teams, regardless of their location.
- Call analytics: You can monitor call performance and gather insights to improve your team’s efficiency.
- Custom IVR systems: AVOXI allows you to create personalized, professional customer experiences with automated call menus.
These features give businesses the flexibility to tailor their communication systems to fit their unique needs. By combining Zoom’s conferencing power with AVOXI’s advanced voice solutions, you get the best of both worlds.
A reliable partner for global businesses
Zoom’s virtual phone numbers might meet local businesses’ basic needs, but for companies with international clients, AVOXI is the game-changer. Here’s how it can help:
- AVOXI’s scalable solutions mean you can start small and grow your coverage as your business expands.
- Need to switch numbers or add more? AVOXI’s portal makes it easy to manage your phone numbers and add new ones in minutes.
- With 24/7 customer support and a commitment to reliability, AVOXI ensures that your business stays connected, no matter what challenges you may face.
By choosing AVOXI, you’re not just opting for a virtual phone number provider—you’re also partnering with a platform that empowers your business to scale communication globally and integrate seamlessly with tools like Zoom.
Unlock the full potential of Zoom with AVOXI
Using virtual phone numbers with Zoom unlocks the potential for seamless global communication and allows businesses to maintain a professional image, streamline operations, and expand into new markets. While a Zoom virtual phone number offers basic functionality, its limitations in coverage and features highlight the need for a more robust solution.
AVOXI bridges this gap by providing extensive global coverage, advanced call management features, and flexible pricing tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking to integrate a single virtual number or scale your communications system across multiple countries, AVOXI makes the process simple and efficient.
Ready to elevate your communication strategy? Contact us today to learn how AVOXI can enhance your Zoom Phone experience and help your business thrive.
Commonly Asked Questions on Using Virtual Phone Numbers with Zoom
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about using virtual phone numbers with Zoom:
Not necessarily, but it depends on your needs. Zoom works perfectly for video meetings and internal calls, but virtual phone numbers provide a huge advantage for external communication.
Using a virtual phone number with Zoom allows you to:
- Establish a local presence in international markets, even if you’re not physically there.
- Present a professional image with a consistent caller ID.
- Handle customer inquiries seamlessly by routing calls through your Zoom system.
For businesses that want to streamline operations while maintaining a global reach, virtual phone numbers are indispensable.
