You don't need a second phone, a contract, or anything technical. Here's what actually works.
If you're searching for a simple business phone number, you've probably already looked at a few options and found them more complicated than they should be. Apps to download. Contracts to sign. Hardware to set up.
Here's the short version: the simplest option is a virtual landline number that forwards calls straight to your mobile. No app. No second phone. Works exactly like your normal number, except it looks like a proper business landline.
If that's enough, ProperLine can get you set up in minutes.
If you want to understand your options before deciding, read on.
Your four options, ranked by simplicity
1. Virtual landline number (simplest)
You get a local UK landline number - a 0161, 0117, 020, whatever area code fits your business - and it forwards calls straight to your mobile.
From your customer's point of view, they're calling a landline. From your point of view, it rings your phone like any other call. You don't need to download anything or learn anything new.
Setup takes a few minutes. No engineer visits. No hardware. No contract.
Best for: sole traders, self-employed people, tradespeople - anyone who wants to look established without adding complexity.
2. Second SIM or second phone
Buy a cheap handset, stick in a second SIM, use that for business.
It works, and it's genuinely simple to understand. The downside is carrying two phones, remembering to charge both, and switching between them all day. Most people who go this route end up regretting it within a month.
Best for: people who want complete separation and don't mind the extra hardware.
3. VoIP app (more features, more friction)
Services like Google Voice, Vonage, or RingCentral give you a business number that works through an app on your phone.
More features than a virtual landline - call recording, voicemail transcription, team extensions. But you need the app open and working, your internet connection needs to be reliable, and there's more to set up.
Best for: businesses with a team, or people who need features beyond basic call forwarding.
4. Traditional landline (most complicated)
An actual landline installed at a fixed address. Requires a BT or similar contract, an engineer visit, and you can only answer it in one place.
For most self-employed people and small businesses, this makes no sense in 2026.
Best for: businesses with a fixed premises where someone is always present to answer.
What makes a business phone number feel "professional"
The thing most people actually want isn't features - it's for customers to take them seriously. A few things matter here:
Local area code. A number starting with your local area code tells customers you're based nearby. It's a small signal that carries more weight than it probably should. A mobile number tells them nothing about where you work.
Consistent number. Once your number is on your van, your website, or Google - it needs to stay the same. Changing it means losing enquiries from anyone who saved the old one.
Ability to manage it. If you're on a job and can't answer, you want to divert to voicemail or a colleague without touching your personal phone. A separate business number gives you that control.
The one thing to get right
Whatever option you choose, pick your number before it goes anywhere public - before the van gets sign-written, before the website goes live, before the leaflets get printed.
Changing your number after that point is painful and costs you enquiries.
The bottom line
If you want the simplest business phone number possible:
- Get a local UK landline number that forwards to your mobile
- No app, no second phone, no contract
- Set up in minutes, works immediately
That's it. You don't need anything more complicated than that unless your business genuinely requires it.
ProperLine gives you a local landline number that rings straight to your mobile. Pick your area code, enter your mobile number, and you're done.