Advice from a Call Center Geek!

Thomas Laird

Advice from a Call Center Geek is a weekly podcast with a focus on all things call center and contact center. Tom Laird, CEO of 600+ seat award-winning BPO, Expivia Interaction Marketing and Ai auto QA startup OttoQa, ICMI Top 25 Contact Center thought leader discusses topics such as call center operations, hiring, culture, technology, and training while having fun doing it!

read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

Unlocking the Power of Prompts: Enhancing CX QA with Proven Strategies
Feb 22 2024
Unlocking the Power of Prompts: Enhancing CX QA with Proven Strategies
Send us a Text Message.Dive into the transformative journey of OttoQa, where we've uncovered the profound impact of prompts in elevating customer experience (CX) quality assurance (QA) processes. This podcast (taken from a Linkedin Live Event) brings the insights and methodologies from our extensive experience directly to you, focusing on the art and science of crafting effective prompts for QA automation.Explore a rich discussion on both the fundamental and advanced strategies that have revolutionized our approach to prompts. This episode is designed not just to share knowledge but to inspire action. We encourage listeners to experiment with these techniques in their operations, building confidence in the technology and its application before making any significant investments or deployments.Whether you're aiming to refine your CX prompting strategies or are curious about their potential to transform your service center, this podcast serves as your guide to unlocking the power of effective prompting. Join us in discovering the methods that have not only propelled our journey forward but also have the potential to redefine the landscape of customer service excellence.If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
Inside the Contact Center Evolution: Insights from John Coulter of Five Star Call Centers
Dec 21 2023
Inside the Contact Center Evolution: Insights from John Coulter of Five Star Call Centers
Send us a Text Message.Join me, Tom Laird, and John Coulter from Five Star Call Centers, as we journey into a conversation on "Advice from a Call Center Geek."🔍 Key Highlights:𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸:What does the horizon look like for contact centers in the next two years? We're discussing trends, challenges, and opportunities that await!𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 & 𝗥𝗢𝗜:Which technologies are set to revolutionize contact centers? We're exploring the tools that promise the highest utility and return on investment.𝗢𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲/𝗡𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝘃𝗲:How is the nearshoring trend reshaping our industry? We analyze its impact on quality, costs, and overall strategy.𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗖𝗫 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵:The big debate! Should companies build their own CX tech or invest in market solutions? We weigh the pros and cons.𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘃𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗣𝗢:Unveiling the emerging 'Champion vs Champion' trend in BPO and its implications for the industry.Don't miss out on these crucial insights that could redefine your business strategy and customer engagement approach. Listen, learn, and let's discuss! Your thoughts and experiences matter.If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
Navigating the Technology Maze for Small Contact Centers: A Practical Guide
Dec 11 2023
Navigating the Technology Maze for Small Contact Centers: A Practical Guide
Send us a Text Message.Welcome back to "Advice from a Call Center Geek," the podcast dedicated to enhancing your contact center operations! In today's episode, we dive into the often confusing world of technology for small contact centers. With the holiday season approaching and AI becoming a buzzword, we aim to clarify and simplify your tech choices.Key Points Discussed:Bridging Contact Center Operations and AI: We explore how AI is shaping the industry, moving beyond the hype to practical applications, especially for smaller centers.Technology for Small Contact Centers: We focus on contact centers with under 100 seats, discussing how to select the right tools without getting overwhelmed by sales pitches for unnecessary tech.Practical Advice: We offer actionable insights on platforms suitable for different sizes of contact centers, from micro setups to those nearing 100 seats. This includes a detailed look at CCaaS and UCaaS platforms, and when each is appropriate.Budget-Friendly Solutions: We discuss cost-effective alternatives for quality assurance, knowledge management, and other essential tools, emphasizing the use of AI and tools like ChatGPT to automate processes.Hardware Recommendations: Practical tips on choosing computers, headsets, and operating systems that offer the best value for money.This episode is not just about technology trends; it's about making informed decisions that truly benefit your contact center. Tune in for an insightful journey through the maze of contact center tech!If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
The AI Transformation: A New Era for Business Process Outsourcing
Nov 9 2023
The AI Transformation: A New Era for Business Process Outsourcing
Send us a Text Message.Imagine navigating the rapid changes in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How do BPOs need to adapt and evolve to stay competitive in this AI-driven landscape? That's what we're discussing in this enlightening episode, drawing insights from a seminar at the Google campus and exploring the potential of technology to revolutionize contact centers.With a focus on enhancing customer experience (CX), we delve into how technology can be a gamechanger. From backfilling headcount to reducing average handle time, we explore how becoming CX partners for clients can transform your business. We also examine how analytics can provide a deeper understanding of customer sentiment and how gamification can add value to the customer journey.Are you ready for the future of BPO technology? We discuss how BPOs need to become proficient in the latest tools to offer value to customers. From leveraging features like auto summarization and Agent Assist to understanding the impact of chat GPT and its new voice capabilities, we cover it all. We also highlight the significance of automated voice services in increasing customer engagement. Tune in, stay updated, and remain competitive in this ever-evolving industry.If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
"The Room Where it Happened" Special Episode!- Navigating the Future of Customer Service
Nov 2 2023
"The Room Where it Happened" Special Episode!- Navigating the Future of Customer Service
Send us a Text Message.𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙄𝙩 𝙃𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙"NICE's remarkable team flew Tom to New Jersey at the White Eagle Hall,  to step into "The Room Where It Happened," their exclusive video series that casts a spotlight on the pulse and prospects of Customer Experience (CX). There, Tom's own audio narrative brought to life what we regard as one of our most compelling podcast episodes and one of our all time personal favorites!In "The Room Where It Happened," our podcast dives into the transformative role of AI in contact centers, showcasing its capacity to streamline traditional roles and pave the way for innovative practices. Tom provides insight into the future of quality assurance and the unique opportunities AI presents for BPOs to differentiate themselves. The discussion culminates powerfully, drawing from Tom's tenure at Expivia, demonstrating how integrating AI with a focus on people can greatly enhance staff retention and customer relations, paralleling the influential outcomes crafted in history's most notable CX rooms.If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
Rethinking Contact Center Outsourcing (BPO) in the Age of AI
Oct 10 2023
Rethinking Contact Center Outsourcing (BPO) in the Age of AI
Send us a Text Message.In this episode of Advice from a Call Center Geek, we take you into the keynote speech that Tom gave at the Google Complex in Boulder Colorado to a group of contact center outsourcing company leaders which was sponsored by NICE, Google, and Outsource Consultants.We've transitioned Expivia from just being a "contact center outsourcer" to embracing our role as a "CX technology partner" and give the full case study about this in this episode.The shift in perspective?It's not just about answering calls and chats anymore; it's about leveraging technology to enhance customer experience.Key takeaways:• Adapting to Change: Reframing our identity alleviates the fear that comes with evolving business landscapes.• Tech Investments Then: It used to be about direct ROI and customer value for each tech buy.  • Tech Investments Now: We view technology holistically. Not every tool will promise immediate ROI, but together, they drive value and competitive advantage.  • The Reality of Agent Assist: While I grapple with its direct profitability, it's undeniable that it's becoming an industry norm, crucial for winning new business.As we continue this journey, our focus remains: Balancing tech investments to ensure both our growth and enhanced customer value.If you are a BPO, 2024 will be a huge year to think through these changes.If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
The Power Merge: Analyzing Nice's Game-Changing Purchase of LiveVox
Oct 4 2023
The Power Merge: Analyzing Nice's Game-Changing Purchase of LiveVox
Send us a Text Message.Here is a quick min-pod on some initial thoughts on the 350 million dollar purchase of LiveVox by NICE.This is essentially a union of two firms where one's strengths balance out the other's limitations.The Cxone Dialer is mediocre, and certainly not a standout in the industry, whereas CXone continues to be the industry front-runner for inbound CcaaS.On the other hand, LiveVox boasts an outstanding outbound service with a vast portfolio of outbound clients. However, they've struggled to gain momentum in the inbound CX domain.In my opinion, this merger is a strategic move for both companies. Relying solely on outbound strategies in today's regulatory environment is challenging, and I believe LiveVox was aware of this.On the Cxone side, they now have arguably the best outbound platform in the market.#ccaas #cxone #callcenter #contactcenter #callcentergeek #cxIf you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
Evolution of Contact Centers: Modern Strategies for Managing PR and Recall Crises
Sep 28 2023
Evolution of Contact Centers: Modern Strategies for Managing PR and Recall Crises
Send us a Text Message.Ready to transform crisis into opportunity? In this episode, we promise to arm you with practical strategies and cutting-edge tools to navigate the choppy waters of crisis management in contact centers. We use our insights and experiences to illuminate the potential of modern Customer Experience tools to mitigate such crises. With our guidance, you'll learn about setting up minimalistic self-service websites, deploying AI chatbots to deliver vital information, and strategizing to handle customer complaints effectively. We don't stop there! Harnessing social media during crisis communications can significantly make a difference. Listen as we unfold various social media strategies, right from TikTok Lives, Q&A sessions, to effective email campaigns. We also delve into the mechanics of adjusting IVR systems, routing calls to BPOs, and utilizing analytics. We shine light on the importance of maintaining consistent messaging for an enhanced customer experience. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to not just survive a crisis, but to leverage it for growth. So sit back, and let's change the game of crisis management together!If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
10 ChatGPT Prompts to Fully Automate Your Contact Center QA
Sep 8 2023
10 ChatGPT Prompts to Fully Automate Your Contact Center QA
Send us a Text Message.Ready to unlock the secrets of automated QA in your contact center? This episode is brimming with insights about using chatGPT to revolutionize your QA, promising to transform how you approach your work. We walk side by side with you, through the labyrinth of user accounts and databases, right up to crafting prompts for a form from a client. Ever wondered how to ask the most effective questions and generate impactful call evaluation outputs? Your search ends here. We navigate the crucial waters of quantifiable metrics, systems to rate calls using binary points and CSAT scores, and the power of leveraging a confidence score for each assessment. As we round up our discussion, we lift the veil on how AI can categorize call transcripts and the potential scalability of a SaaS model for larger companies. We touch upon our exciting, upcoming Discord, and share the success of our MVP. Delving into the importance of alpha and beta testing, we also explain the immense benefits of employing chat gbt to automate QA. Whether you're seeking to enhance your QA system or merely curious, this episode promises a treasure trove of actionable insights. Buckle up and join us on this journey!If you are looking for USA outsourced customer service or sales support, we here at Expivia would really like to help you support your customers.Please check us out at expiviausa.com, or email us at info@expivia.net!Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel