Tips for Handling a Call Center Job as an Introvert

For introverts that work in a call center, it can be incredibly draining at times. Frequent communication with strangers has the power to zap their social battery exceptionally quickly.

On top of this, the possible rejection or lack of kindness from others can be harmful to an introvert's psyche. But, with proper knowledge and preparation, they can not only make it through the day but also enjoy their time at work.

Ask For Help

The key to success in any area of life is asking for help when it's needed. Whether that means asking a manager, coworker, friend, or even the internet for help, any form of assistance can make a world of difference.

Asking questions can help introverts feel supported and provide them with necessary feedback that can completely transform their experience at work. Especially for those that are new to their call center job, leaning on others for support is vital.

Additionally, receiving help does not always have to mean asking someone else. Introverts are able to help themselves by taking advantage of replenishing activities like getting some fresh air or stepping away from the phone for a moment.

Take Frequent Breaks

On that topic, taking breaks is another excellent way to improve their quality of life at work. In fact, taking breaks regularly actually makes introverts more productive and happy in the long run. Breaks help keep the mind fresh as it offers a chance to reduce stimulation temporarily. Studies have actually shown that employees who take regular breaks are more engaged and productive than those who don't take them.

On top of this, breaks also help prevent burnout. If introverts do not take enough breaks during the day, they are more easily worn out and overwhelmed by stress. This can ultimately lead to burnout quickly.

Aside from their mental benefits, breaks are good for physical health too. Taking regular opportunities to move around helps reduce muscle strain and fatigue, which can lead to decreased productivity as well as other health issues if they aren't addressed.

Focus On Positive Interactions Over Negative Ones

Although it may be challenging at times, it is important to focus on positive interactions with people and not dwell on the inevitable bad ones.

Unfortunately, some calls simply are not going to go well. Despite the fact that it may be hurtful to be spoken to in a negative manner, it is crucial to prioritize the considerate, kind clients over these less enjoyable ones. In any industry, coming across unkind people is going to be unavoidable. Taking this in stride and letting it roll off their back can help introverts remain focused and ready to continue on with the work day.

Include Some Comfortable Conversations As Well

When the work day is spent conversing with strangers, it can be exhausting and unfulfilling at times. Although introverts do not enjoy small talk, they thrive on meaningful conversations with people they care about.

One way to decompress after a long day of calls with customers is by reaching out to a friend or other loved one. Meeting for dinner, video chatting, or even going for a walk with someone close to them can effectively recharge them and get them ready for the next work day. The ability to balance the often surface level conversations they are engaged in at work with deep, thoughtful conversations with friends or family can make a significant impact on their mental state and mood.

Be Aware Of The Environment

Physical comfort is a priority for introverts, and for a good reason. Being uncomfortable physically and then completing tasks that are challenging mentally can cause overstimulation quickly. It's important to make sure that their workspace is set up in a way that makes them comfortable and clear headed. This means organizing their workspace in a way that makes sense to them. Clutter can be distracting and overwhelming, so it is vital to keep things clean and organized.

Finding an ergonomic chair is another helpful tool, as call center jobs require a significant amount of sitting. Comfortable padding, the ability to move freely, and a supportive back are all important aspects to find in office seating.

Additionally, it is wise to make sure that there is enough light in the work area so that their eyes do not become strained over time. If necessary, move closer to windows or lamps during these times if necessary. Also, consider using blue-light blocking glasses if screens are a large portion of the work day. This can help reduce headaches caused by staring at computer screens all day long too.

Establish Connections With Clients

In a job that deals with regular clients and unknown potential clients, it's important to understand their individual businesses and how they operate. Although introverts don't need to know everything about their industries, having a general idea of what they do will help build a connection with them and establish some guidelines for the calls. For introverts, having an idea of where the conversation may lead can be comforting and reduce any stress prior to the call. If there are no guidelines or expectations set beforehand, the stress may be all too much for introverts. An established connection to the client or their company can make the call significantly more tolerable for both parties.

Be Clear, Concise, And To The Point

When introverts are on the phone with a customer, it is helpful to be clear and to the point. The customers will likely prefer direct communication and are less likely to be passive aggressive or hang up. Introverts tend to rely on their ability to understand others emotions by way of observing them. With phone calls, the inability to do this can present challenges.

Being clear in the expectations of the call can eliminate some of the unknowns and ease the tension that sometimes occurs with call center positions. Although customers may struggle to communicate their needs at times, having a direct and clear response can make the process less difficult overall.

Understand That Some Days May Be Stressful

Working in a call center is often an isolating, strenuous experience. The constant noise of phones ringing can be overstimulating for introverts and can make it difficult to hear themselves think. Being on the other end of the line with someone who's angry or frustrated can be frustrating for many. It's only natural that an introvert might feel exhausted after spending so much time conversing with people who are unpleasant.

Knowing ahead of time that this is a potential challenge they will face can help introverts be prepared for these more stressful days. It all comes back to focusing on the positives over the negatives and remaining optimistic overall.

The world of customer service can be a tough place to work, and it's even more challenging for introverts. But with the right tools and strategies, they can actually survive and even thrive in this type of job. By focusing on their strengths, asking for help when needed, and taking some time each day to recharge their batteries, they might be able to find that working in a call center can be quite rewarding.