Equipment Requirements for Work-from-Home Call Center Agents

As a work-from-home call center agent, you'll need to have a variety of equipment available to you before you even start looking for a job. Most virtual call center employers have similar lists of equipment and work environment requirements. Luckily, most people have the majority of the necessary equipment already and only have to buy a few new pieces or upgrades. The following will give you a basic list of equipment and office enhancements you'll need to have in order to qualify to apply for many work-from-home telephone customer service or sales positions.

Computer

Typically, you'll need to have a computer running Windows 2000, XP or Vista with at least a 300 MHz processor. You'll also need at least 600MB of free hard drive space and at least 256 MB of RAM. The specific requirements related to the speed and memory available on your computer may change slightly from employer to employer, so be sure to check the requirements closely before you apply for a position. Additionally, you'll be required to have Internet Explorer 6.0 or later, updated antivirus software and anti-spyware software.

Internet Access

Most of your communication with your employer as well as the actual work you'll do taking orders or assisting customers with service issues will be done on your computer, so you'll need to have an email address. You may also have to download an instant messenger or voice over IP (VoIP) program. You'll be connected via the Internet to your employer, so you can access all the records and information you need to do your job as a virtual call center agent. In order to assist customers in a timely and efficient manner, you'll be required to have high speed internet access via a cable modem or DSL of at least 128K. Some employers will not allow a wireless or satellite connection.

Simultaneous Internet and Telephone Access

Your employer will require you to have the ability to be on the Internet and telephone at the same time without using a cell phone or VoIP phone like Skype or Vonage.

Telephone

Your telephone will have to be a traditional corded phone. Cellular or VoIP phones are usually not acceptable. Also, most employers don't allow virtual call center agents to use cordless phones although a few are starting to loosen their requirements and allowing cordless phones and headsets. Additionally, call waiting will have to be disconnected from your phone. Some employers will require you to have a separate phone line solely for taking calls while you're working, so there is minimal chance of receiving non-work-related calls during your work shift.

Headset

A corded headset with a noise-canceling microphone will undoubtedly be a new piece of equipment you'll have to purchase if you're just starting out as a virtual call center agent. Believe it or not, it can be hard to find a corded telephone with a jack to insert a headset. Some people have luck finding them at local stores. If you can't find one locally, there are several websites that specialize in this type of equipment including Headsets.com.

Environment

Some employers will list very specific office environment requirements in their job postings. The most common requirement demands that agents have a separate office with a door that locks to keep out any distractions and noise. Background noise of any kind is grounds for dismissal when you're working for any employer as a virtual call center agent, so this requirement must be taken very seriously.

Other Equipment

Some virtual call center positions may require you to have a printer, fax machine or copy machine.

When you're considering a work from home opportunity, make sure you weigh the pay structure against the monetary investment you'll have to make in equipment prior to accepting the position to ensure the offer is lucrative enough to meet your needs.