What you need to know before applying as a call center agent.

I have recently resigned from a call center company. And after being an agent for about 3 years, I'd say that I would like to try other opportunities. Never had the eye for being an Account Manager or the likes, as I really hate responsibilities. (Go on, tell me that without it I won't ever grow up.)

Now, being a call center agent is really hard. Despite the negative opinion that the call center industry had when it first started in the country, it is right now the largest industry that provided many Filipinos with jobs than other industry combined.

When the Call Center Industry first started out in the country, many were skeptic about it. You hear a lot saying that you will just be treated like a phone operator, answering the phone and all. And that there is no room for growth and it is a dead end job. Some even said that you won't be able to use your brain, since the job doesn't require you to think because there is already a script that you must follow. But hey, they were all wrong!!! It takes a lot of nerve and brain-power to work as a call center agent. Based from some of the people that bad mouth the industry, I have observed that these people were rejected by a call center company, saying that they are not fit for the position. It seems that they have ill-feelings toward the industry, that's why it led them to say those things.

I tell you, not everybody is ready to be a call center agent. You need to be courageous, and quick. Call center agents normally makes decisions on the fly, while over the phone and no chance to think it over. This is specially applicable to technical support, where each agent has to decide what is wrong with the customers product and what is needed to fix the problem.

Another thing to consider is your fluency with the English language. I know I am not that fluent with the language and that with this blog post, I have a lot of errors with grammar and spelling that you wouldn't believe me that I worked as a call center agent. Now, since call centers cater to customers from the US mainland, it is mandatory that you have a neutral accent when speaking in English. Also, fluency with the language should be above average if not excellent. This certain requirement is the one lacking in most applicants for the call center agent position.

With that said, if ever anyone is planning into applying for any position in a call center, it is best that before you do be prepared. Make sure that you know the responsibilities of the position you are applying for, and also make sure that you have practiced your English.

Good Luck!!!