Get an Area Code 686 Business Phone and Answering Service

Geographic Regions and Area Codes

Area code 686 serves the east-central portion of Virginia, including the capital city of Richmond and surrounding areas. The specific regions covered include:

• Chesterfield
• Henrico
• Hopewell
• Mechanicsville
• Powhatan
• Midlothian
• Petersburg
• Colonial Heights

This area also encompasses the Northern Neck and the Middle Peninsula. The 686 area code serves as an overlay to the existing 804 area code, meaning both area codes cover the same geographic region. Adjacent area codes include 227, 240, 301, 434, 540, 757, 826, and 948.

Population

As of the 2020 census, the population within the 686 area code region is approximately 1,462,793 (source). This population figure reflects the rapid growth and development in the central part of Virginia, necessitating the introduction of the new area code (source). The increasing population is a positive indicator for businesses, as it suggests a growing customer base and potential for economic activities.

Time Zone

The 686 area code is located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), also referred to as America/New_York (source). This time zone is consistent with the rest of the state of Virginia, making it easier for businesses to coordinate operations and communications with other parts of the state and the East Coast.

Number of Small Businesses

The 686 area code region has seen a significant increase in the number of small businesses due to the rapid growth in population and economic activities. While specific numbers for small businesses, including hair salons, barber shops, computer repair, home security, spa, wellness, fitness, and gyms, are not readily available from the provided sources (source), the overall growth trend indicates a thriving economic environment. This growth presents numerous opportunities for new and existing businesses to tap into a burgeoning market.

Unique Story: Small Business Growth in Richmond

Richmond, the capital city within the 686 area code, has a rich history of supporting small businesses. The city has seen a resurgence in local entrepreneurship, with many new businesses opening in the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods. This growth is fueled by a supportive community, access to resources, and a vibrant cultural scene. For example, the revitalization of the Scott's Addition neighborhood has transformed it into a hub for breweries, restaurants, and tech startups, making it an attractive location for new ventures.

Benefits of Using Goodcall in Area Code 686

Goodcall offers numerous benefits for businesses operating in the 686 area code. As an AI phone service, Goodcall provides a modern alternative to traditional IVR technologies, call centers, and voicemail systems. Here are some key advantages:

• Always Available: Goodcall's AI technology ensures that your business never misses a call, providing 24/7 availability.
• Cost-Effective: Goodcall is an affordable solution, making it ideal for small businesses looking to reduce operational costs.
• Interactive Capabilities: Unlike simple voicemail, Goodcall's AI can interact with callers, providing a more engaging and efficient customer experience.
• Easy to Use: The service is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and maintenance.
• Scalable: Goodcall can grow with your business, accommodating increasing call volumes and expanding operations.

By leveraging Goodcall, businesses in the 686 area code can enhance their customer service, streamline operations, and improve overall efficiency. This makes it an invaluable tool for hair salons, barbers, plumbers, contractors, computer repair shops, massage and fitness centers, and other small businesses in the region.