Hi

I'm thinking of setting up a premium rate line, possibly a competition, or nokia logo/ringtone service. I'm just wondering if anyone has had any experences or anything with these sorts of services(No sex line stuff at all!). Eg, how much advertising they had to do, did they prove to be profitable etc.

Any info would be great

Thanks

Chris

Hi Chris,

Have you tried the First Tuesday group - I am sure that there would be one in your area. This is where potential start ups and experienced business people can get together and shares views, problems, and successes..... I am not sure oftheir http but I will have a look - where are you based. Alternatively you could contact Gordon@icosmart.com. He is one of the leaders and could point you in the correct direction and allow you to join their e-group where you can also ask the question...... Alice

Chris> 'No sex line stuff at all'

Yeah, like we believe you [big smile]

Sorry, I've no direct experience with that sort of thing, but there certainly seem to be a great many premium rates around; a lot of competition lines seem to be weighted in this way, probably a way of paying for the prizes and more. From a consumer point of view I wouldn't call a premium line unless I absolutely had to - before the call it is difficult to know how long the call is really going to be and you alwaysget the impression that they try to draw things out somewhat. Call me the old cynic, but I prefer to pass on such things.

Jim

Hi

I see what you mean, but there are certain guidlines set out by ICSTIS. Its like a fair trading office but for premium rate lines. Anyway, when you advertise a premium rate lines you have to put on the ad somewhere how long the call is likely to last, how much it is per minutes, and other things depending on what service you are running.

Chris

Do you have a link for ICSTIS? One for the resources maybe.

Bob

Their link is www.icstis.org.uk and they have a fairly good FAQ at ICSTIS FAQ.

Hope this helps - and I must make a note to get theseguys on the forum!

John

Here's what goes.

Consult the ad department of your alternative weekly periodical. This is where the most expensive part of the deal lies. Advertising costs.

Many who want a first start into this will go to a service bureau, until theygrasp enough to run the show themselves.

Although I sell the equipment needed for these sort of business, I don't recommend anyone to jump at buying it until they've garnered enough operational experience and hire someone with technical expertise in IT infrastructure.

Factors such as handling chargebacks, staffing, customer service, customer acquisition and retention are operational and complex, and you'll need to be familiarized with these first.

So keep the simpler part, which is promoting your number, until you're ready to the next step.

Then, off course, you might call me. I'll be glad to help you.

Regards,

Tony Costa