How to Forward Landline Calls to a Cell Phone Number

These days, we’re used to having the convenience of being able to keep in touch on the go. Of course, in the business world, there’s still a case for landline phones or desk phones that can be used in the office as opposed to mobile devices. There are several types of phone systems available today and each will have its own specific guide to assist with call forwarding, or you can check with your service provider. 

In this guide, we’ll look at call forwarding, including all the options for how you can get calls transferred to your cell phone without a lot of hassle, no matter what phone or provider you may be using. That way, you don’t have to worry about missing calls, returning messages, and potentially watching leads walk away because you weren’t there.

The benefits of forwarding calls

Of course, before we dig into the technical details, we want to explain all that you can gain from forwarding calls in the first place. Obviously, it makes it easier for people to get in touch with you. Some of the reasons people like to forward calls include:

• It increases their availability, as well as the availability of their staff or receptionists. People are no longer limited to calling when the landline is accessible or when you’re in the office. Plus, it means you don’t have to actually give out your mobile number in order to be more available to your clients. 

• It expands your company’s presence. When you can talk to people on the go, you are going to be able to grow your business in new ways. You can have after-hours calls routed to an answering service instead of your cell phone, too, giving customers the support that they need even if you’re busy with your personal life. 

• Having call forwarding makes it easier for you (and everyone) to travel. Since calls can be forwarded to just about any number, it’s no trouble to take off for a week, go to a business conference, or otherwise be away from the office. You’re no longer going to miss opportunities. 

• Your company looks more professional with call forwarding in place, in several instances. For example, when you use call forwarding to ensure that it never rings to a busy signal, your customers will feel more appreciated. They’ll also feel like your well-designed communications say something about your business. 

• Forwarding calls allows you to put after-hours rules into place, as mentioned. You can set specific times and days when calls are to be forwarded to your cell phone, or if you would prefer they were sent to the answering service, and so forth. 

All of this allows you to provide better customer service and ensure that your audience is always able to reach you, no matter what the situation might be. Just remember that even though you’re making yourself more available, you also still need to take time off every now and then. 

When you use it properly, call forwarding can help you provide better communications and customer service, which will enhance your reputation and help your business grow faster. To go the extra mile, when you choose an answering service instead of an automated call forwarding system, you can ensure that all calls get to the right place at the right time and that you’re not fielding dead-end leads when dedicated customers need your attention. 

Standard procedure versus provider instructions

As mentioned, your service provider may be able to provide you with specific instructions on how to set up call forwarding on their network. This could involve software, a settings feature, or just their iteration of the standard process that usually works for just about any landline. 

That process includes the following steps:

1. Dial *72 (star-seven-two) on your landline phone. You should hear a dial tone. 
2. Type in the 10-digit mobile number that you wish to forward calls to. 
3. Press the pound (#) button to save the number. There should be a confirmation that the service has been activated. 

If you want to be sure it took, you can complete the process a second time just for safety’s sake. And if you want to stop the forwarding process, you can usually do that by dialing *73 (star-seven-three). 

Some providers will also offer conditional call forwarding. This may be a little more complex to set up, but most will explain the process and even walk you through it, in some cases. Conditional call forwarding simply means you can set the parameters for which calls are forwarded—such as if your line is busy, if it’s a weekend, etc.

Be sure to follow your provider’s instructions carefully if they have given them to you. That will make the entire process easier. If you’re not sure, you can always reach out to your provider first and find out what they suggest so that you have the best chances of success. It’s not to say that the traditional method won’t work, but if there’s a better way, why not try it?

Speaking of better ways… 

Imagine if you had someone to forward the calls for you. You’d only ever need to take calls that really demand your attention, and then you could focus more on the parts of your business that need it. When you partner with the team at Smith.ai, our 24/7 answering service with call forwarding options is just the start of what we can do. 

We’ll also help with live website chat, lead intake, appointment scheduling, and anything else that you need. Want even more assistance? Ask about our support for outbound sales and outreach campaigns. Plus, we’ll create a tailored strategy to manage all of it for you so that you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

To learn more, schedule a consultation to discuss what the 24/7 virtual receptionists at Smith.ai can do to help your communications. You will also find us at hello@smith.ai or (650) 727-6484.