To hate my new call centre job...

[Janeymoo50]

I started two weeks ago, have just completed training (product knowledge etc).
It's really just relentless.
You answer the call, deal with the enquiry/booking etc, end the call, and literally another comes through. I get one ten minute break where you log off (it's timed on a countdown) which gives me time to have a smoke (to calm my nerves), wash my hands and get back to my desk. This continues for another three hours when i get lunch (15 minutes), so another fag, make a hot drink which i don't finish as can't take to desk, have a wee and I'm back on again for another three hours. Can't eat at desk in case call comes through. It's horrendous, but still very new. In my last job (was there for 26 years) it was a normal office, make tea anytime, chat in the kitchen, go to the loo whenever. I'm dreading next week as due on my period and they are super heavy by the third day which means a fair while in the loo "sorting myself out".

Does anyone work in a call centre with any tips? The people and staff are lovely, it's quite a nice atmosphere etc but the practical side of it is tough (plus i guess it feels all a bit like i am a machine). My head aches and my voice is hoarse with a dry throat at the end of the day.

[toohardtothinkofaname]

Nope, YAdefinitelyNBU. worked in one for 8 years and bloody hated it, they pay good wages though so I sucked it up. You literally tethered to a desk (headset), your farts are timed & there's no job satisfaction (not to mention the verbal abuse that will come your way just because you can't do as the callers asked)

[toohardtothinkofaname]

My tip; find another job. It won't get easier & if you know it isn't right for you, it never will be

[Katenka]

I worked in a call centre and loved it. Hated it when it was quiet.

I progressed to management and saw why they were so strict. So many piss takers. They would relax the rules a bit. Within weeks at least half would be taking the piss, which means the other half were having to take on the work load. So they would tighten them up.

I worked in complaints so it was stressful. But I learned to just take it in my stride, do my best and go to the next call.

I was exhausted the first few weeks. I did 4 X 10 hour days, instead of 5 X hour days. But soon got into it.

It did help that it was well paid though.

[hotchilipepper]

YANBU, it's hard work. Much harder than people seem to realise. I work in a government call centre and its relentless. I've been there for about 7 years now and it does get easier. I think I could do it in my sleep now!
I would give it a bit longer personally. I hates it for the first 6 months to a year but I really don't mind it now and its very flexible for my childcare.

[MartinaJ]

I had a job like this 15 years ago.
I partly hated it but at the same time, especially now I recognize it gave me a lot:

1. A very thick skin and the ability not to break down when someone's abusive.
   
2. It got me into the line of business I'm now and there was lots of training.
   
3. Some calls were really great and it was actually funny to see the difference. It was a technical helpdesk and I got to know the personalities of people well. The most abusive one would normally be the lowest ranked employees and secretaries. The funny thing was, when you talked to a PA or a secretary of an exec, they'd be total bitches. Then you got to talk to the exec and they'd be really lovely and very pleasant to deal with.
   

Looking back, it was demanding but it gave me a lot. My idea would be - if you see opportunities to grow for you, focus on those. Are there any career prospects? Choose what's appropriate for you, choose the training and focus on it. Good luck.

[lostincumbria]

How long is your shift? The law says you get a minimum of 20 mins continuous break if you work over 6 hours. Most firms are more generous. Sounds like the shorter break is a DSE break from your screen.

[Princesspeach1980]

It does take some getting used to, but you should find the day flies by if it's so busy. once your knowledge and confidence build up, it does get easier. The breaks sound very short though, how many hours do you work per day?

[expatinscotland]

That sounds awful.