Call centers represent a unique and opportunity for those wanting to work from home. You will need to set up your home office, and many companies that would hire you have requirements regarding what needs to be included in your personal office space. That being said, if working from home is a priority and you are willing to put time and effort investing in a home office so you can use it as a call center here are a few key points you need to keep in mind.
The computer that you will be using for your home office will be a key part of your ability to operate as a call center receptionist, so it is in your best interest to maintain a decent-quality computer. Common requirements for the computer itself include the Windows 10 OS, at least 1 GB of RAM (although, 2GB is not unheard of), and Microsoft Office. As far as your internet connection goes, you will want a broadband internet connection with a DSL and cable connection since you need to get the best connection you can with your setup. Some companies also require that your computer be a desktop, so if you need a new computer for your home office you should consider buying one. You need these things especially if you are giving customer service.
Home office call centers usually use dedicated online call center software and a VoIP Phone system to work properly, so there are a few minimum requirements to consider. Some call center software requires you to use one of the major internet browsers like Safari or Mozilla, and you may need as much as 4GB of RAM when these browsers are being used on-the-job. Wired headsets are also a consideration, with “professional series” headphones warranting special recommendation. If you aren’t quite sure what to look for in an office computer upgrade before you start your home call center, there is software documentation available online to help give you an idea of what you might be lacking. Also, if you are uncertain about what call center software you will use, you can look for available software online.
The actual phone used to contact your client base may or may not be an actual phone, as there are several options that you could take advantage of in this regard. “Softphones” are software applications that simulate phones and can place phone calls using Voice over Internet Protocol (or “VoIP) technology. You could also use an internal phone that is directly connected to your work computer, or even an external phone that is connected to a public phone number. Keep in mind that a VoIP phone call will demand a bandwidth presence, so make sure to weigh the pros and cons of a traditional phone vs the extra cost of a faster internet connection.
There are a number of general supplies that you should keep on hand for working a home call center job, like pencils, paper, and possibly sticky notes, but additional other furnishings that improve your general quality of life should be included if you can manage it; a good chair, an actual desk with drawers and table space, adequate lighting, a computer screen that is large enough, a surge protector, and backup hard drives can all be invaluable in their own way. A printer may occasionally be handy as well, but one is not likely to be required if you would rather take notes or screenshots.
Self-motivated jobs like those you work at home require a fair amount of effort to maintain, but the perks that come with never having to leave the comfort of your own home are not to be understated. If you find staying motivated with your home office job to be a challenge, try to plan out a daily routine and set some guidelines for yourself. If you know what to do and stay focused on the task at hand, you will find your home call center to be a more rewarding career.