Call Center Agent Qualifications

By fotosearch.com

As fresh graduates (or not) we look for a job where we can reward ourselves after all the hard work and sacrifices we did for almost more than a decade; reward our parents, our family; reward those people who have been very helpful to us during those years. Yet, nowadays competition is very tough and whether we admit it or not, a large chunk of graduates can't easily get the job they want.

We are aware of the fast growing BPO Industry in the country. Call center agents are still "very" in demand. I guess, these companies do have job openings almost every month. And I know, a lot of us are thinking to try the job. They offer high salary and different incentives plus useful training and fast career growth. So, why not try the job?

Over these thoughts that came into your mind, you might want to think if you are really qualified for the position before you waste your time, effort and money going to Makati, Ortigas, Quezon City or anywhere else in the Philippines to apply.

Let me provide the list of the main qualifications and skills you must have for you to reach your "dream job".

I.                   COMPUTER SKILLS

First main skill you should have. The world now depends on technology so you should know at least basic pc operations, internet surfing and various computer programs. But if you're applying for Technical Support, I guess you should learn things more than the basic.

II.                ENGLISH COMMUNICATION SKILLS

This is the most important. It's not enough to be outspoken and articulate. But an aspiring CCA must express himself the best way he can. "Speak in your best english," they say.

Here are some areas you might want to check if you really do have that "EXCELLENT COMMUNICATION SKILLS" typed in your resume. I got this list from Convergys. I made it elaborated for your sake. ;-D

A. Fluency - avoid stammering. Take a second to organize your thought and make sure you practice at home so you can avoid mental block. Avoid unnecessary pauses. Be spontaneous.

B. Reasoning - make sure you are expressing your ideas in relevance on what the interviewer had asked you.

C. Comprehension - you must understand questions and instructions easily without the need to elaborate them.

D. Thought Organization - the interviewer doesn't want you to tell the whole story. Simplify your ideas. Always express yourself direct to the point.

E. Grammar - is your sentence structure correct? How about your usage of the different parts of speech?

F. Accent - No need to sound like a 101% American but at least you must be aware that you're gonna talk to the world and they might give double meanings to words you pronounced incorrect. Neutralize regional accent.

G. VOWELS - check and practice the English vowel sounds of a e i o u

H. CONSONANTS - practice t and th, p and f, b and v, j, s, and r sounds.

Practice oral reading at home. Read your favorite English novels or books aloud. You might also want to record your oral reading so you could listen to it after. Take note of the pronunciations that still need improvement. You may also review lessons in your Speech Communication during your college to refresh your mind.

III.             CONFIDENCE

If you have the above two skills but you're not confident enough to show that you have it, I doubt if you can get the job. Always believe in yourself. Breathe deeply and pray. Never fear to fail because it's part of living. What's important is that you try. After all, experience is the best learning process. So show them what you got!

IV.             LUCKY CHARM

Do you ever believe in "LUCK"? Well, if you too would ask me this question, I'd say YES. If you don't have the skills yet, you try and very lucky enough to get the job. Wow, that's great! You have the Lucky charm flowing in your veins. Just don't ever waste the opportunity.

Call Center Companies’ require qualifications other than these so don't forget to read them carefully before clicking "Apply".

If you fail more than once, don't be discouraged. Take note what the interviewer wants you to improve. Practice them and next time I'm sure, you're gonna reap your prize.

 Feel free to comment.

Good luck job hunters!