How to Get Hired as a Call Center Agent

Just graduated and looking for a job? TIred of your current occupation and would like to explore new and exciting fields? Then maybe you should try applying as a Customer Service Representative. Nowadays, almost everything is being outsourced. Several industries have already followed suit such as manufacturing, industrial, and also the field of customer service. With this increased role of third world nations, high demand has sprung for Customer Service Representatives (CSR's) or Call Center Agents in many countries such as India, Southern America, Mexico, and The Philippines among others. This can be the job for you, so read on and get some tips that might help you land this job.

• Computer I.Q. - First of all, almost 100% of the job entails working with computers, so computer skills is extremely necessary. You must be able to know how to operate and use a personal computer. You won't be programming or creating Java games, so just the basics will do. Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel are musts that every aspiring call center agent must have. If you aren't that good with MS Office then go on over and visit the world wide web. There are countless tutorials and trainings which can be found online. One good site is www.learnthat.com, which offers free online courses and tutorials on a number of topics. Most examinations or assessments when applying as a call center agent also tests computer knowledge, thus make sure you are ready for this before you start applying.
• Communication Skills - As a Customer Service Representative, you are tasked to talk to customers from all over the world, and the primary language which is used is English. To become a call center agent, mastery of the English language is of utmost importance. Grammar, fluency, and intonation are some of the skills that must be adept at. Again, if you are not a native English speaker and you wish to brush up on it, try going to www.m-w.com, or www.yourdictionary.com, where you can improve and practice your communication skills. If you don't have the luxury of having a computer with internet access, you can go ahead and turn on your TV and start listening, observing, and imitating the personalities on English programs. You can likewise pick up english books, novels, or magazines and do some self-learning on the subject. Same as computer skills, Language and communication skills are also assessed, thus give yourself and advantage by focusing and improving yourself in this category.
• Customer Service is First - As the title goes, you are a customer service representative, thus providing customers with quality service is your primary goal. if you do not have any experience in customer service, get to know the field or similar jobs. You can research on testimonials by other call center agents, or you can try interviewing people with similar occupations such as Front Desk Associates, Fast Food Employees and Hotel Staff. You can learn a few tricks and tips to ensure that your customers will be satisfied and to help you transition into the position. Having a good attitude and pleasing personality will go a long way in this profession.

If you have these three qualities then surely a job as a Customer Service Representative will be waiting for you. If you follow these tips, then surely any test, assessment, or interview will be a walk in the park and pretty soon you'll be on your way to receiving, entertaining, and satisfying customers. Good luck and happy hunting!