Q&A for How to Be a Call Center Agent

Simply remind them how important insurance is and if they still say no, thank them for their time and hang up. Don't badger people, human beings aren't on Earth to buy insurance.

Your employer will likely expect you to have at least a basic understanding of computers but will train you on the company's specific programs.

Practice at home. Although you will not be using the same programs, you can get used to normal functions like copy, paste, etc. Also, if you can stay later or come in early and pull up the programs at work, that helps to learn on-the-job.

Talk clearly, do not mumble, use a pleasant voice and listen while the other person speaks.

Yes, as long as he/she is qualified for the position that he/she is applying for.

If you're taking customer information, like addresses, names, and even numbers, like an account number, it'll be important to get them right. On the other hand, if you're recording remarks or documentation, most companies are lenient with spelling. Just don't forget to be accurate with the customer's personal information if you're writing remarks or documentation for every call.

Yes, there is online training. But training in person is much more effective.

That will depend on the call center. In some cases they may be willing to help you with on-the-job fluency training. However, if there is fierce competition for the job and there are many others already fluent, the company will probably take them first. The best thing to do is to call the company first, to find out what they offer, as each place will differ.

Do a basic online typing course and you'll be typing in no time.

A call center agent makes, and sometimes answers, telephone calls on behalf of a company. Consumers may call you asking about their account or for product support. You'll likely also field calls wherein customers are reporting complaints. The role requires multitasking, patience, empathy and knowledge of the company's products and services.

Yes, it is. A call center agent needs to meet the required monthly sales target, which can be quite challenging.

Maybe, but maybe not. They just hire someone suitable for the post. As long as you match their criteria and requirements, they may hire you.

It is always important to have a positive attitude. Ask a customer their name. When answering their questions, say their name.

Yes.

Most call centers only hire those aged 18 and older.

Most people don't have call center experience when they start. As long as you speak fluent English, the company will train you.

Process knowledge is taught in new hire training before you begin your new job duties.

It depends on the particular call center, and the amount of hours that they need to fill.

Some call center jobs offer flexible time schedules, but it depends on the individual center and how much they are willing to pay.

Yes, as long as you're qualified.

Think about other experiences you've had that may be related to the work.

Call center employees make, on average, $2,374.25 per month. This can fluctuate based on your experience level and location.

It's going to depend on the company.

In some regions, call centers pay a very competitive wage and are a great stepping-stone to a new career.

It is very important. You need to be able to speak clearly and understandably to your customers.

It depends on the company and location. In the US, the average wage for call center agents is around $12 per hour.

In most call centers, there's no need of specific qualifications. If you're good at English and have the computer skills, then you can apply for it.

When you are starting out, don't expect that you are going to quickly find information. Be a good listener in training, as they describe issues that will you will face daily along with the resources you will need to answer them. Your team will help you, so be sure to ask your colleagues if you are not finding what you need.

If your company has a dress code, you will know what it is before your training is over. If for some reason you don't, be sure to ask you supervisor. Most call centers will allow casual wear; a blue or white button-up shirt with collar and beige khaki pants are usually the choice to wear.