This service was once called Grand Central until it was purchased by Google in the summer of 2007. They have refined and scaled the service so that it is becoming more readily available via invitation. (Complete this form here to get on the waiting list.)
With a Google Voice account you can have one phone number -- forever. As they say in the video below, the number is tied to you, not a device or a location. This free service can easily be set up to provide you with complete control over which phone rings and when it rings, voicemail transcription service, caller grouping that provides customized greetings, sms notification of messages and many more detailed functionalities.
Having a Google Voice number removes the concerns about losing contact with people who may have an old business card with an office number or a different cell phone number.
The biggest challenge out of the gate using a Google Voice number is getting all of your contacts and family to use it. Of course the easy ways are to include the number as part of an email signature and business card, but you may also need some help with the process. Here is a Lifehacker article about easing the transition.
There have been some regulatory as well as business relationship controversies about the service that we point out. Initially battles developed over the use of Google Voice on the iPhone, with AT&T concerned over ability to text and talk for free via an App. The rationale behind the banning of the app is that the functionality is too similar to that of the iPhone. Google still continues to claim they've been banned, while Apple states it's under review.
Currently, the battle also incorporates Net Neutrality concerns regarding phone service getting blocked based upon specific locations.
For someone starting a new business, Google services provides you with a complete operational dashboard that includes phone, documents, email and the list goes on and on. It is a way to get off the ground immediately and just another way to keep your business in the cloud.
Theme music for The Bella Buzz is Fallen by Digital Chemistry, available for download at the Podsafe Music Network.
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