Hotlines is an entertaining video-based training package for call centre staff developed by psychologist Eve Ash. It is filmed on location in Australia at an international bank, a major telecommunications company and an airline call centre.
Jamie, Martin and David work in a call centre. They form a band, The Dial Tones, and write a song that strikes a chord with everyone. They soon discover from their team coaches that they have a lot to learn.
People in call centres are the window into their organisation. They need to present a professional image over the phone. This program covers the importance of speaking well, welcoming customers and using effective protocols for putting people on hold and transferring calls.
Call centre operators are often the first and most important point of contact with the customer. They need to have a positive approach to customers and learn to build rapport and be willing to help.
People come from a wide range of backgrounds with a varying range of needs and abilities. It is essential that call centre staff accommodate these differences in a natural and professional way.
One of the toughest challenges for a call centre operator is dealing with an upset and emotional customer. They have to work out what the customer needs.
It is not enough for call centres staff to have the right manner. They must also focus on results. We all need to know how we are doing and how to improve our performance.