How to find a telephone number

Use an online telephone directory to find a telephone number.

Given the power of the Internet, tracing telephone numbers has become very easy. If you know the name and location of the person or organisation you wish to contact, there are certainly many applicable methods to use. From the conventional printed services to the more straightforward online facilities, choices are many. While the majority of online services provided by reputable companies are free to use, others may require a membership or payment if you want to get access to additional information.

Instructions

1. Consult your local telephone book. Printed directories such as the Yellow Pages and Phone Book from BT are an excellent way of finding contact information. According to a survey conducted by BT, 91 per cent of people find the number they are looking for in the BT Phone Book. Of these, 84 per cent actually end up calling the number they have found. Each year, BT produces 168 geographic editions of the book, containing sections for classified businesses and residential listings.

2. Use online telephone directory. The Internet has many so-called “people finder” websites, which offer directory inquiry services. Those offering reliable services include 118.com and 192.com, which access telephone records and the UK's electoral roll to find people’s contact details. This service is matched by AT&T’s AnyWho.com, a US people and address finder site that provides Yellow Page information from other countries, as well as the UK. You can also search on BT’s online directories, Btexchanges.com or Bt118500.com, to find numbers for individuals and businesses alike.

3. Call telephone directory inquiries. Calling such inquiry services such as 118 numbers is, for the most part, expensive. But telephone directories are very useful when you have no access to alternative directory enquiries. A quick search for “118 directory enquiries numbers” will yield results for the different 118 numbers you can call. BT’s own 118 500 is a 24-hour service available all week. When you call with your inquiry, the agent on the phone will conduct the search on your behalf and give you the number to call. At your request, the agent can also send you the number by text message or connect you straight to the number.

4. Make use of opt-in services like mobile118 if you are searching for a mobile telephone number. Mobile118.com allows you to register and provide your details before you can search their catalogue of registered mobile numbers. The service is free, but you can also opt out if you no longer need it.

References

• BT: Less is More--The Compact BT Phone Book
• 118.com
• Mobile118.com
• BT Exchanges: