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Landing a Virtual Call Center Agent Job sounds wonderful to many people. The flexibility…The extra cash…no annoying employees in the cubicle next door…sounds great!
However, before you accept a Work From Home call center job, be sure to check out the company thoroughly to determine how it operates and how you will be paid. Here are a few more tips, so, you don’t have an unpleasant surprise after you accept the position:
1.) On-Site vs. Virtual Call Center Jobs - At some companies, call center workers function in a typical office setting. Others permit employees to work from home. If you are working at a call center job from home, make sure you have the equipment you need including high speed internet access, a phone line you can dedicate to the call center job, and a computer with an operating system compatible with the company’s technology.
2.) Training - Check to find out whether the Virtual Call Centers provides paid training or whether you have to pay. The information should be available on the company web site. If not, call or email to verify fees before you accept a job that could cost you hundreds of dollars in start-up costs. For what it’s worth, I’m not a big fan of companies that charge you to go to work for them. Again, in my opinion, I believe that if a company wants to hire you it should provide training at no cost to the employee.
3.) Independent Contractor vs. Employee - If you are hired as an independent contractor, rather than as an employee, you will be responsible for paying taxes on your earnings. The company may also require Virtual Agents to incorporate, which is an added expense. In some cases, when hiring call center workers as employees, benefits are provided. So, check on that also.
4.) Be Realistic About Earnings - How are you going to be paid? You may receive hourly pay, but, you may not. If you are paid by the minutes (talk time) that you are phone or per call, your earnings will limited by the volume and length of the calls you receive. There may not be a minimum guaranteed amount of pay.
5.) Company Research - Make sure the company is legitimate. Check with the Better Business Bureau or Federal Trade Commission to see if they have any complaints. Also research the company online to confirm, as best you can, that the company is legitimate and that there is a good chance of making money.