Step 1: Decide on Your Business Phone Number Setup
Choose how to manage your existing business phone number:
Keep your existing number with your current carrier:
No need to update marketing materials
Set up conditional call forwarding through your phone carrier to forward calls to the LocalResponse menu
Operate with your current number and a secondary marketing number from OneLocal
This is the most popular option
Port your existing number to OneLocal:
Use the same phone number for all calls and SMS within OneLocal.
The process can take up to one month
Operate with a single number for business and marketing purposes.
Learn more about porting your number here
Use the OneLocal marketing number as your primary number:
Discontinue your existing number
Update marketing materials accordingly
Ideal for businesses transitioning from a personal number to a dedicated business number
Step 2: Configure LocalResponse Based on Your Business Goals
Option A: Grow Your Business (More Clients/Revenue)
Set up LocalResponse with conditional call forwarding:
Allows your team to answer incoming calls as usual
If no one answers, calls are forwarded to LocalResponse, offering menu options to callers
Benefit: Higher conversion rates than voicemail when optimized
Learn more about setting up conditional call forwarding here
Option B: Manage High Call Volumes (Stay on Top of Current Customers)
Set up universal call forwarding:
Forwards all incoming calls directly to LocalResponse
Add a "Speak to a Representative" option for callers requiring live assistance
Both configurations can be accessed via the LocalMessages section of your OneLocal dashboard
Step 3: Set Up LocalPhone
LocalPhone enables you to make and receive calls from your desktop or mobile app
Access call logs in your dashboard to view:
Call details (who, when, duration, and purpose)
Voicemail recordings
Easy follow-up options
Ensure LocalResponse is set up to identify the reason for calls
Configure your incoming call settings here
Step 4: Configure LocalResponse
LocalResponse handles calls when you’re unavailable, providing options like sharing information, sending SMS links, or forwarding calls.
Step 5: Add Ring Members
Go to your OneLocal dashboard
Navigate to Settings > LocalMessages > Incoming Call
Select "Ring Members" and flag users who will receive calls
Additional Notes/Tips
Conditional call forwarding requires coordination with your phone carrier if keeping your existing number
Including clear menu options in LocalResponse ensures callers find the right solution quickly
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to port a phone number to OneLocal?
A: The process may take up to one month
Q: Can I keep my personal number private while using OneLocal?
A: Yes, using a marketing number allows you to separate personal and business communications
Q: How do I answer calls on LocalPhone?
A: It works just like a regular phone call! You can do this on your devices: computer or phone. Just make sure to keep your notifications of the device you are using on. You'll receive the call and just click on the green phone icon to answer it. You can also go to Settings>Local Messages> Incoming Call and make sure your user is flagged as a "Ring Member".
If you have further questions, reach out to our OneLocal support team through the orange chat bubble in the bottom right corner of your screen. We're here to help!