Job Profile: Virtual Call Center

Job Description:

Like agents in a traditional call center, virtual call center agents handling in-bound and/or out-bound telephone calls, except they work from their own home office. Companies either utilize virtual call center agents themselves (i.e. Hilton Hotels, 1-800 Flowers) or contract to provide virtual call center telephone support for others.

Virtual call center agents may do telemarketing, customer service, third-party verification or technical support. Depending on employers, agents may provide only one service or their workload may vary to include both inbound and outbound calls in sales, technical support and customer service.

Typically the virtual call center agent provides and maintains all home office equipment and services required to do the job.

Learn more:

• Equipment for Virtual Call Center Home Office
• Companies Hiring Virtual Call Center Agents
• Virtual Call Center FAQ

Experience/Skills/Education:

Previous experience in telephone customer service is highly desirable. Some companies will accept customer service experience in retail or other non-phone positions. Companies look for applicants who are self-motivated with good grammar and a professional phone presence. Typically, basic math and writing skills as well as knowledge of word processing systems are expected. A high school diploma or GED is usually required. Many require proof of eligibility to work in the U.S.

Type/Length of Employment:

Companies hire virtual call center agents as both telecommuting employees and independent contractors. Part-time and temporary arrangements are common; however full-time work is often available as well.

Compensation:

Pay ranges from minimum wage up to $30 for specialized positions. Typically most jobs pay closer to minimum wage.

Payment Type and Frequency:

Virtual call center agents are paid on a per-hour, per-minute or per-call basis. For more details, see virtual call center FAQ. Most are paid at bi-weekly or monthly intervals.

Hiring Process:

Most companies hire work-at-home phone agents without a face-to-face interview. Typically online skill assessment tests and phone interviews are used. Background and credit checks are common. Some companies make applicants pay for these.

Geographical Requirements/Time Away From Home Office:

Virtual call center agents rarely need to work away from their home office. Even training is usually done from home. However, many companies have geographic requirements and only hire from certain U.S. states.

Schedule Flexibility:

Among the many companies hiring virtual call centers, there is an array of schedules available. Some require agents work some weekend or evening hours, while others don't offer weekend and evening hours. Likewise, some require a minimum commitment of hours, while others make no guarantees about hours available. Most, particularly those that hire independent contractors, have no restrictions against agents working at a different company as well.

Child Care Arrangement:

Those with young children will need to make child care arrangements. Only children who are self-sufficient, except in an emergency, can be in the home without another adult supervising them. Since cordless phones are not allowed, an agent cannot move from her station to take care of a child.

_{Disclaimer: Sponsored Links and Ads on this site for jobs or business opportunities are not endorsed by me. They are automatically generated based on the content of the page. What you should know about Sponsored Links and Ads}