FOCUS : DIAL THIS NUMBER SOLVING PROBLEMS OVER THE PHONE CALLS FOR CONFIDENCE, EFFICIENCY AND A FRIENDLY MANNER. READ ABOUT A CAREER IN A CONTACT CENTRE 1 7 8 /// J O B S & C A R E E R S E very day, staff working in contact centres (also known as call centres) help solve problems. From a queried item on a credit card bill, to making a bulky purchase, to changing the details on a utility account - and everything in between - many of the issues people used to have to sort out in person are now done over the phone. When it comes to dealing directly with companies, contact centres are often a customer's first and only point of contact. Hardly surprising that if you work in one, you have a vital part to play in building trust and maintaining a company's good reputation. Long-term careers Working in a contact centre is often seen as a short-term option because of the flexible hours on offer. But thanks to good training and promotional prospects at every level, it can also shape into a Words: Louise Todd. Wage information provided by National Careers Service unless otherwise stated. CONTACT CENTRE