You may think that outsourcing is something for established companies and that your small startup isn’t at that stage yet. But as 3C Contact Services tells their partners, outsourcing may be the solution for you, regardless of your business’ size.
You’re doubtlessly under a lot of pressure right now and while your employees may be helping to relieve some of the stress, you still have only a short amount of time to launch your organization. There may be high expectations surrounding your business as well, adding to your stress.
Having a third party handle certain aspects, such as customer calls, can free up your resources, so you can think of ways to set yourself apart from your competition. That said, some business owners may be reluctant to cede control to a third party, even if it’s for something as mundane as customer calls.
What to Outsource?
This is something you will have to carefully consider, and many new companies may choose to outsource non-critical tasks. We recommend looking at what is non-critical, which duties you would feel comfortable having a third party perform, and which you would prefer your employees focus on. These tasks can include everything from customer service to payroll and human resources.
Where to Outsource?
For many organizations, outsourcing off-shore is popular due to the affordable labour pool. However, due to cultural differences, just as many prefer to stay onshore if they’re looking to outsource certain aspects of their business.
Regardless, you should carefully consider all your options and, most importantly, do your research. Look at what people are saying about the third party you’re considering on social media and make sure that their rates will fit your budget. This is also why it’s important to read the fine print.
There’s nothing wrong with asking for a little help. Regardless of if this is your first startup or your third, outsourcing is one way to take some of the pressure off you and your employees.
Don’t be afraid to enforce your policies; after all, your staff are working for you. Whether it’s wearing uniforms related to your business or following certain policies, the organization you outsource should be more than happy to follow any policies you have—within reason, of course!
Benefits of Outsourcing for Startups
However, outsourcing does have many advantages for startups, such as:
Cost Savings
Unless you have the backing of a major corporation or venture capitalist, your startup’s budget may be stretched thin. Hiring a third party can be a cost-effective way that won’t take a big bite out of your limited budget, allowing you to direct your funds towards more important aspects of your business. In addition, it can take some of the more menial tasks your organization has to perform off your plate, so you and your employees can focus on other, more important aspects.
7 Tips to Outsource Call Center Solutions
Whether you’re an established small business or a growing startup, outsourcing call centre services may be something you should consider. For small businesses, it’s a way to allow business owners more time to improve their businesses. For starups, utilizing call centre services is a way to outsource startup development. But before you settle on a call centre service, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Evaluate Your Need for Call Center Solutions
Each business will have different needs for outsourced call center services. When considering call center outsourcing for your small business, you must identify your specific requirements. Are you simply looking for a service that will take calls in your off time? Maybe you have a larger business and you need a more robust group of services. In either case, before soliciting call centers, figure out exactly what you’ll be asking them to do.
Use the Call Center Solutions You Really Need
Your goal as a business is to always be efficient. Once you’ve determined what kind of call center services you need, stick to it. Don’t overextend your resources and use services you don’t really need. In the long run, that will create more harm than good.
Look for a Local Call Center Solution Company
When it comes to outbound call center services for startups, it’s important to prioritize local call centers first. You want your customers feeling comfortable with whom they are speaking. Having local agents from a local call center adds to the familiarity you want to build with all of your customers.
Seek Out Reviews and References of the Company
Due diligence should always be done before getting into business with any call center service. It’s simple enough to do an online search and look for reviews. Many companies will have testimonials right on their web sites. Even taking the extra step and asking current and former clients about their experience with the call center you’ve chosen would be worth the time.
Look at the Company’s Web Presence and Technology
It’s advisable that you consider just how “with the times” a call center you’re considering is. We live in a largely digital world with ever-changing technology, so your call center should be aware of and able to use these technologies to its advantage.
Pay Attention to Better Customer Service
As a business looking to partner with a call center, it’s important that you have the peace of mind of knowing you and your customers will be receiving a high level of customer service. For instance, if a call center is offering outbound call center services for startups, then you want to know that they have personnel who are able to comfortably interact with customers.
Use Specific Acquired Information from Call Center Agent
It’s important to be very clear as to what kind of information you expect your call center agent to collect from customers. It’s possible that just a name is enough. But if you want more detailed information, such as email and contact number, then you must relay that info to the agents and be assured that they are capable of getting this done.
As the leading provider of outsourced call center solutions, 3C Contact Services teaches its partners the necessary customer service skills needed to engage and retain customers and clients. Call us today at 1-888-353-2335.
