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You're going to have to have an internet accessible home PC, a land line phone with headset, a quiet place to
work (with minimal distractions), and the ability to set your own flexible schedule.
Here are the basics in a nutshell:
- Professional, pleasant phone presence.
- Ability to commit to a flexible weekly work schedule within the shift window you select.
- Reliably quiet and professional work environment during work periods.
- A reliable personal computer which meets the following system requirements: Windows 2000, XP (Home, Professional, Media
Edition) or Vista (all versions), Pentium II 300 MHz or faster processor, 600MB free hard drive space, 256 MB RAM, Internet
Explorer 6.xSP1 or later, antivirus software with current and updated virus definitions, and installed anti-spyware software.
- Subscription to a reliable high-speed ISP service which has bi-directional speeds of 128K or more and which is neither
a wireless nor satellite connection. A wireless connection within the confines of your home is acceptable as long as your
DSL or cable connection is "hard-wired".
- Ability to be on the Internet and on the phone at the same time without the use of a cell phone or IP phone. The telephone
must be a corded traditional telephone. No cordless, cellular/wireless, or VoIP (e.g., Vonage, AT&T, CallVantage). Call
waiting must be disabled before each work shift.
- A corded headset with a noise-canceling microphone. The headset must be corded and plug into a corded telephone to allow
you to work hands-free.
In addition, some may require you to take a voice audition in addition to your qualifying exam. After all, you will
be on the phone talking to people.
Also, none of these companies require you to pay a fee to them in order to apply. However, they may require
a small fee for a background check, but only after you pass the initial qualifying round. This varies by company.
You will be an independent contractor, and as such will be required to have a tax ID (Business Tax ID or SSN).
For a more complete FAQ about work-from-home call agents, read the FAQ from Livepps, it is pretty complete. But make sure you check the individual qualifications from each company before deciding. Each one
has a little bit different twist (some require Windows XP, do not yet support Vista nor MAC, etc.).
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