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Easing Contact Center Payroll Pains: Navigating Through 7 Major Challenges

Easing Contact Center Payroll Pains: Navigating Through 7 Major Challenges

Discover payroll solutions in the customer service industry. Learn about compliance, record-keeping, technology, data security, and more.
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Interview Guide: Five Easy Answers for Hard Questions | Salem Solutions

Interview Guide: Five Easy Answers for Hard Questions

The fact of the matter is that the most straightforward interview questions are often the most difficult to come up with answers for that set you apart from other candidates who may be just as qualified. Hiring managers are tired of hearing the same canned responses to interview questions. This is your interview guide to… Read More »

The fact of the matter is that the most straightforward interview questions are often the most difficult to come up with answers for that set you apart from other candidates who may be just as qualified. Hiring managers are tired of hearing the same canned responses to interview questions. This is your interview guide to easy yet effective answers to the most challenging questions you will be asked in an interview.

5 Answers to Hard Interview Questions

What Questions Do You Have?

Do not let this question fool you. It is often the hardest for candidates to get right. Most interviewees do not prepare, so they blank when asked this question and end up saying, “nothing” (the worst possible response). This response shows a lack of care for the position. You should always prepare for this question ahead of time. Make sure you ask at least one or two questions that you can’t easily find the answers to on the internet. For example, ask how the organization views success.

Please Describe Yourself in One Word

There’s no doubt this is a tough one! First, avoid generic responses such as “punctual” that do not really tell employers anything about yourself. Instead, choose an adjective that relates to the position you are applying for and is meaningful to who you are as an employee. For instance, if you apply for a data entry position, a great option is “detail-oriented.”

Why Should I Hire You for This Position?

It can be hard to “brag” on yourself, but sometimes you have to. In this case, you can do so humbly. Prepare a short answer that highlights how you will be an asset to the company. Avoid mentioning other candidates or rambling on about irrelevant facts that do not pertain to the needs of the position or the organization.

What is Your Greatest Achievement?

You have a long list of accomplishments, and that is amazing! However, you probably do not need to list them all in an interview. Instead, choose the ones that are most relevant to the position you are interviewing for. After all, the chances are good that the interviewer saw your complete list of achievements on your resume.

What is Your Biggest Strength and Weakness?

This question is about digging deeper into your character and the value you can bring to the company. Then, when it comes to your biggest strength, choose one that will be an asset to the position you are vying for. The more relevant it is, the more of an impact it will have.

However, for your biggest weakness, gone are the days of choosing a weakness that is actually a strength. The best strategy is to be honest and then provide steps you are taking to become stronger in that area. Your candid answer will be appreciated and leave a better impression!

Find the Perfect Job! Salem Solutions Can Help!

Following these tips will help you prepare stellar answers to the most commonly asked interview questions. Salem Solutions is the nation’s leading staffing agency! We are here to help you find the perfect job to fit your career goals. Browse open positions today!

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Hashtag Your Way to Success: Social Media Secrets for Job Seekers 

Hashtag Your Way to Success: Social Media Secrets for Job Seekers 

When you think of Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, you might picture fun moments with your dog or updates from friends and family. But here’s the secret: these social media platforms can also be valuable networking opportunities to land your next job. In this blog, we’ll reveal the untapped potential of social media and hashtags in… Read More »

When you think of Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, you might picture fun moments with your dog or updates from friends and family. But here’s the secret: these social media platforms can also be valuable networking opportunities to land your next job.

In this blog, we’ll reveal the untapped potential of social media and hashtags in your job search. Job seekers like you will uncover strategies to leverage your favorite platforms, enhancing your visibility and expanding your network. Discover the key to finding the perfect job opportunities in the digital age.

 

Social Media Usage and Recruitment Today 

Social media is part of most people’s daily routines. It serves as a platform for connecting with others and sharing experiences.

Regarding social media habits, Gallup found that most people prefer browsing social media over creating content themselves. For instance, 62 percent of U.S. adults use Facebook daily or weekly, while 59 percent engage with YouTube. Additionally, about 35 percent of U.S. adults occasionally post content on Facebook, with another 20 percent do so on Instagram.¹

Interestingly, social media is also a great way for recruiters and employers to seek job candidates. A survey conducted by Statista reveals that 58 percent of staffing firm employees consider social media one of their most effective sources for identifying potential candidates.²

With this in mind, you can also take advantage of social media to find your next big opportunity by attracting employers and building professional connections through your profile’s content.

Related Reading: How To Leverage Social Media to Attract Candidates 

 

7 Ways to Maximize Social Media for Your Job Search 

Here are some social media tips you can make the most of to find the best opportunities in the job market.

 

1. Try looking yourself up.

Start by conducting a simple online self-search. Enter your name into a search engine and see what results come up. Look out for any unfavorable content and determine which of your social media profiles it’s linked to.

Take the time to hide or remove these posts, as they can influence a recruiter’s initial perception of you. If too many posts exist in one profile, consider setting that account to private.  For instance, if you find unprofessional or embarrassing posts on your Twitter feed, either delete them or make them private to ensure a cleaner online image for potential employers.

 

2. Optimize your profile for job search.

Once you have tried looking yourself up on a search engine, it’s time to give your social media accounts a new look for your job hunt.

 

Select only a few relevant platforms to optimize. 

You wouldn’t really use all your social media accounts for job search. Select only a few that you can comfortably manage for the process. Think about using LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter, for example. On these selected platforms, make sure your profile is a goldmine of information that recruiters and employers would want to know about you.

 

Highlight the details recruiters would want to know. 

Now that you’ve selected a platform, make sure to include the necessary details recruiters and employers would want to know about you. This means showcasing your work history, educational background, and job-related skills and having a professional-looking profile photo.

You can even add your contact email for convenience or note that you’re open to messages on these platforms, making it easier for potential employers to reach out. For example, if you’re a graphic designer, showcase your portfolio prominently on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Or, if you’re a marketing professional, emphasize your experience and skills in that field on Facebook and Instagram. These subtle tweaks can go a long way towards creating a more appealing online presence for recruiters.

 

3. Let people know you are available for employment opportunities.

Make some noise on social media by letting everyone know you’re on the hunt for employment opportunities. You can choose which type of format suits you best: a text post, some engaging photos, or even a video. This is your chance to showcase your personal brand, chat about your work history and skills briefly, and highlight what makes you stand out from the crowd.

Consistency is key, so keep those posts coming to keep your connections engaged. Use social media scheduling apps to help you manage your content and post on a regular basis.

Don’t hesitate to ask your friends and family to give your post a share – it’s a smart way to broaden your reach. They might just have some connections in your industry who know about job openings that would be a perfect fit for you.

Related Reading: 6 Qualities That Make a Great Call Center Agent 

 

4. Maximize the use of hashtags.

Hashtags are more valuable than most people realize. You can add professional hashtags to ensure your content ends up on the right people’s feeds. You can also use them to navigate social media platforms in looking for an opportunity to apply. Hashtags are most useful on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

 

Use hashtags to search for job openings. 

You can use hashtags to look up job posts that align with your search. You can be as specific as possible to help narrow your search. Adding relevant professional hashtags ensures your posts reach the right audience.

Consider this scenario: if you’re on the hunt for call center jobs, you can use hashtags like #nowhiring, #callcenterjobs, #customerserviceopportunities, or #customersupportcareers to narrow down your search.

 

Let hashtags help recruiters find you. 

Using hashtags on your posts helps improve your visibility by bringing them recruiters’ and employers’ feeds. Create a post highlighting your exceptional call center skills, and by adding hashtags like #jobsearch, #jobseeker, or #hireme, your content appears in the feeds of recruiters and employers seeking candidates like you.

This strategy helps you stand out in a competitive job market, and when employers search for candidates with the skills you possess, they’re more likely to come across your profile.

 

5. Build connections through impactful conversations.

Expanding your network is crucial, especially if you’re seeking a job in the call center industry. Start by following potential employers, industry leaders, and recruiters on social media platforms. Follow top call center companies on LinkedIn or Twitter and engage with posts or discussions they initiate. This not only keeps you informed about the latest trends but also makes you visible to these companies.

Connecting with others is also a great way to find a job through referrals. Make connecting with others in the industry a part of your daily or weekly routine. Set a schedule for it to help you improve your visibility and chances of getting hired.

 

6. Join career or industry-specific groups.

Sometimes, social media algorithms might not give you the visibility you need. Consider joining career or industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook. These groups make connecting with the right group of people more accessible.

Industry-specific groups often attract recruiters and industry leaders looking for job applicants. So, you not only get to interact with peers but also stand a chance to spot relevant job posts from the recruiters present.

In addition, these groups serve as a hub for in-depth discussions on industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. You can actively participate, share your experiences, and gain valuable insights from others who share similar experiences. Don’t just rely on your regular feed; explore these niche communities to give your job hunt an extra boost.

 

7. Make your online presence readily available.

Now that you’ve created a job search-friendly social media presence, it’s time to be proud of your online spaces. Add your social media handles to your resume and your website.

With your social media handles readily available, recruiters and hiring managers can easily explore your online presence, understand your personality, and see how you can be valuable to their team. It’s a simple yet effective way to stand out and showcase your dedication to finding the right job.

Related Reading: 6 Career Paths for a Call Center Professional! Which One Is Best for You? 

 

Let your social media profiles speak of what you can do! 

As you connect with others, aim to highlight what makes you stand out in your field. The more you can showcase your skills and knowledge, the better your chances of attracting the right job opportunities. Don’t let your profiles grow stagnant.

Keep them fresh and updated with any career developments. Just like you stay on top of industry trends, make sure your social media presence reflects your current status and capabilities.

 

SALEM SOLUTIONS CAN GIVE YOUR JOB SEARCH A BOOST

Social media platforms can work for you in the job hunt, but you can take it to the next level by teaming up with a staffing firm like Salem Solutions. Our staffing areas of expertise include Call Center, Customer Service, Office & Administrative, Government, and more.

It won’t cost job seekers like you a dime. Our staffing specialists will match you with open positions that fit your expertise and skill set. Contact us today, and let’s get started!

 

References 

1 Jones, Jeffrey M. “Social Media Users More Inclined to Browse Than Post Content.” Gallup, 9 Jan. 2023, news.gallup.com/poll/467792/social-media-users-inclined-browse-post-content.aspx.

2 “Opinion of Staffing Firm Employees about the Best Sources of Candidates in North America in 2018.” Statista, 6 Jul. 2022, www.statista.com/statistics/808058/north-american-staffing-industry-best-sources-of-candidates/.

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Are You Missing Out on Hidden Call Center Talent? | Salem Solutions

Are You Missing Out on Hidden Call Center Talent?

Finding and hiring new agents for your call center is more difficult than ever. Due to the nationwide shortage of candidates, centers must change their recruiting strategies if they are going to survive these challenging times. How do you find hidden call center talent? Let’s find out! The Hiring Challenges Call Centers Face Traditional methods… Read More »

Finding and hiring new agents for your call center is more difficult than ever. Due to the nationwide shortage of candidates, centers must change their recruiting strategies if they are going to survive these challenging times. How do you find hidden call center talent? Let’s find out!

The Hiring Challenges Call Centers Face

Traditional methods are no longer effective or efficient because most applicants will not check every requirement box on the job description. In fact, their qualifications may not be straightforward at all, making it easy to overlook a candidate who will make an excellent hire. Call centers must learn how to interpret skills and qualities that will translate well into the work environment.

The second challenge is finding the right talent. It takes a bit of creativity and researching skills to find hidden gems. It is crucial to know who you are targeting and where to look. The good news is that they are out there! These tips will help you find your next great hire!

Loosen Up on Eligibility Requirements

The application process takes time, so job seekers will not waste time applying to positions they don’t feel they qualify for. If your job requirements are incredibly specific, you may be alienating top talent. For instance, stating that a candidate must have 5+ years of experience might be overkill. Instead, replace it with “prefer previous experience”. The years of experience are not as important as the skills and gained during whatever time the candidate has under their belt.

How to Rework Your Job Description

Draft job descriptions in a way that welcomes candidates who have the potential to be a great addition to your team. This may be in soft skills, education, experience, or transferrable skills. Let job seekers know that you are willing to train the right candidate. Broadening your job description will help attract a higher number of qualified applicants. Make a notation on the job description that those who feel this is the right fit are encouraged to apply. You want candidates to feel comfortable applying to your position even if their skill set doesn’t match up exactly.

Look for the Potential in Candidates

Now that you have eased up on job requirements, it is time to look at applications from a different perspective. Just because a candidate does not have formal call center training or previous experience doesn’t mean they should be instantly dismissed. Look for relevant experience and training. For instance, someone who has worked as a receptionist in a hospital or even owned their own business probably has the skills needed to succeed in a call center environment. They will already be familiar with handling customer issues in a fast-paced atmosphere.

A good rule of thumb is to look for the individual skills needed instead of the whole package. For example, instead of seeking someone who has worked in a call center, keep an eye out for candidates who have held jobs that required excellent communication skills, the ability to multi-task, and comfort working in high-stress situations.

The bottom line is that candidates who are perfectly molded right out of the gate are few and far between. Your company must be willing to hire potential and train accordingly.

Change Your Interview Tactics

Traditional interviews typically include mainly focusing on hard skills and previous call center experience. Shift your interview tactics away from this line of thinking and more toward personality and behavioral traits such as working well with a team and being customer-centric. Also, rely heavily on soft skills that are transferrable such as being detail-oriented and having strong communication skills.

It is crucial during the interview to determine who has potential for success in the job through training and who does not. Situational questions such as “What would you do…” can help you out tremendously in this area.

Broaden Your Potential Talent Pool

Consider structuring your call center to include demographics that normally wouldn’t be possible. This includes implementing a flexible or work-from-home schedule to include often-overlooked groups such as stay-at-home parents or those who are caretakers of elderly or ill family members.

The larger your talent pool and more inclusive your call center are to employees with various needs, the easier it is to find top-notch hires. Not to mention, you will gain a stellar reputation as an organization that welcomes employees of diverse backgrounds and needs. As a highly sought-after employer, talent will come to you, reducing the effort you have to put into chasing qualified candidates.

Redirect Your Job Advertisements

When announcing an open position with your call center, be sure to change up your strategy to target every group that will be a good fit for the call center. This includes taking full advantage of social media platforms, job boards, LinkedIn, and your website.

The bottom line is that you will never find the hidden talent your call center desperately needs if the right people do not know these opportunities exist.

Leave the Hard Work to Us! Salem Solutions Can Help!

The hardest part of the hiring process is finding the perfect candidates to fill your personnel needs. Making a bad hire is costly in the form of money and time. Bad hires either must be let go or leave rather quickly, all on their own. This means you must spend a valuable amount of time going through the recruiting process and training a new hire. The recruiting process takes a great deal of time. This may be time that you do not have.

When you partner with Salem Solutions, we will do the leg work freeing you up to run your call center. As the leading staffing agency in the nation, our staffing specialists will take the time to get to know your needs. We will then leave no stone unturned, combing through our extensive database and searching every connection to find only the best talent. After thoroughly vetting each candidate, we will only present you with the top applicants to interview.

Forget the bad hires and endless searches! Partner with Salem Solutions, and let us handle the rest!

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Call Center Trends That are Shaping Recruiting

Call Center Trends That are Shaping Recruiting

Like every other business process, recruiting is continuously changing and evolving based on the world around us and current trends. The year 2020 brought with it many new trends as call centers were met with never-before-seen challenges. This is your guide to the call center trends that are shaping recruiting. Call Center Trends To Be… Read More »

Like every other business process, recruiting is continuously changing and evolving based on the world around us and current trends. The year 2020 brought with it many new trends as call centers were met with never-before-seen challenges. This is your guide to the call center trends that are shaping recruiting.

Call Center Trends To Be Aware Of in 2021

Social Media Support

More consumers than ever are turning to social media for customer service support. Call centers are obliging on the most popular platforms such as Facebook Messenger and Instagram DM. New hires need to be familiar with navigating social media platforms.

Consistency Across Channels

Consumers may jump from desktop to mobile app to a phone call for support regarding the same issue. They expect their experience to be continuous and not have to repeat steps such as providing identifying information. Call centers are working hard to meet this expectation by delivering seamless omnichannel support.

The Use of Chatbots

Chatbots are becoming increasingly popular because consumers can instantly get their basic questions answered through automated responses based on algorithms. They can also get in touch with a live agent should their issue be more complex than the automated chatbot can handle. Call center agents need to be familiar with chatbots and comfortable with jumping in when need be.

Self-Service Options

Many consumers want to resolve their issues with self-service tools that are available on the company’s website. This includes paying their bill or changing their subscription. This can be achieved through customer portals and online knowledge bases. Often when call center employees receive a call, chances are the consumer is already incredibly frustrated because they have spent time trying to achieve their goal with self-service tools. Agents will need to be extra patient and understanding to field these calls.

Video Support

Customers expect contactless yet personal support. An increasing number of companies are offering video chat support. A consumer can visit the website and open a video chat request with a call center support team member. Your hires must be well-versed with technology and willing to speak with a customer over video.

Are You Hiring the Right Candidates? Salem Solutions Can Help!

Changing call center trends change the type of candidates who are suitable for the job. No longer is it enough for employees to be comfortable talking on the phone. Call center agents need to be comfortable with social media, websites, and video chat platforms.

Salem Solutions is the leading call center staffing agency in the United States. Our specialists understand the evolution of call centers and will find top-notch talent that fits the needs of the modern-day call center. Request an employee today!

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Just Graduated? Why Partnering with a Staffing Firm Should Be Your Next Step

Just Graduated? Why Partnering with a Staffing Firm Should Be Your Next Step

Congratulations! You’ve earned the degree to your dream career. However, you’ve run into the age-old issue of, “You have the degree, but not the experience,” that has prevented you from landing your first job. What can you do? You can’t get experience until someone gives you a chance by hiring you. It may seem like… Read More »

Congratulations! You’ve earned the degree to your dream career. However, you’ve run into the age-old issue of, “You have the degree, but not the experience,” that has prevented you from landing your first job. What can you do? You can’t get experience until someone gives you a chance by hiring you. It may seem like an endless, vicious cycle. The non-traditional route of partnering with a staffing firm should be your next step! And here’s why!

How Staffing Firms Can Help Recent College Grads Find Work

Step Outside of the Box

There’s this picture-perfect idea that you will get your degree and either get accepted into a great internship that leads to a permanent position or be heavily pursued by top companies in the industry. These are ideal circumstances, but not always realistic.

If you have not accepted a job offer by the time you graduate, consider partnering with a staffing agency. It’s the best way to not only find a job quickly but find one that matches your career goals.

Benefits of a Staffing Firm for Graduates

Partnering with a staffing agency provides a multitude of benefits for new grads. These include:

  • Staffing agencies have an extensive database of potential employers. Many of these companies do not advertise open positions publicly.
  • You may not know exactly which area of your profession you want to go in, especially if you lack experience. Working as a temporary hire or temp-to-hire allows you to vet companies and positions to ensure they are the right fit for you before committing.
  • Often, accepting a temporary position can lead to a full-time permanent offer. Employers use temporary positions as a way to vet employees before making a permanent commitment.
  • When working as a contract employee, you can take breaks between assignments if need be or redirect to an area that better suits you without burning bridges.

Receive Help Landing a Job

Staffing specialists are here to help you. They will take the time to understand your skillset and career goals thoroughly. You will be presented with open positions that may be of interest to you. Before applying, your staffing specialist will help you fine-tune your resume and, of course, provide tips for your big interview! This is invaluable help that can easily set you apart from other applicants.

It Pays to Take the Road Less Traveled

Partnering with a staffing agency after graduation may seem unconventional, but it is the best way to find a job you love fast.

Looking for a Great New Job? Salem Solutions Can Help!

The leading staffing agency in the United States is here to help you do just that. Partner with Salem Solutions and let us help your career take off! Contact us today to get started!

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The Top Benefits Call Center Employees Look for When Accepting A Job

The Top Benefits Call Center Employees Look for When Accepting A Job

The goal of every call center’s hiring program is to attract high-quality candidates who will stay for the long haul. The need to constantly hire new employees due to a high turnover rate is costly in terms of money and time. Apart from a competitive salary, the key is to offer benefits that employees value.… Read More »

The goal of every call center’s hiring program is to attract high-quality candidates who will stay for the long haul. The need to constantly hire new employees due to a high turnover rate is costly in terms of money and time. Apart from a competitive salary, the key is to offer benefits that employees value. Benefits have become just as important of a consideration for job seekers as the salary. Which benefits should your call center focus on? Let’s look at the most sought-after benefits of 2021 that top talent want to have in their next call center position.

Paid Time Off

All employees need time away from work to relax, unwind, and perhaps take a vacation or two. Offering paid time off is crucial, especially for stressful call center roles. The amount of time each employee receives can be based on how long they have been there. For instance, new employees may start with two weeks a year, while veterans may have four weeks of paid time off a year. Of course, you can always simplify things and offer a standard amount of paid time off regardless of how long an employee has been with you.

Understandably, people want time off when they either have a child or adopt one into their family. Offering paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave in addition to standard vacation time is a massive bonus to prospective candidates. Candidates who plan to start a family may shy away from a position that does not offer leave for the birth or adoption of a child.

Medical Insurance

Nobody wants to be strapped with the financial burden of out-of-pocket medical bills. Offering medical insurance for employees and their families is an expectation for most job seekers. In many cases, candidates would prefer to take a slight cut in salary to receive better health care benefits.

Pet Insurance

In recent years more and more companies are offering pet insurance as a benefit. Pets are an essential part of people’s lives. They offer companionship and emotional support to those of all ages, and let’s face it; They are a part of the family. Veterinary care can quickly become a financial burden should their four-legged friend become seriously ill. The option of pet insurance is a huge plus when included in your benefits package.

Snack Bar

Sometimes it is the little things. Surprisingly, one of the benefits employees appreciates the most is a company-supplied snack and coffee bar in the office that can be enjoyed during their breaks. Employees must understand the generosity is not to be taken advantage of (e.g., taking snacks home). In an ideal world, employees will be considerate and self-regulate their usage. If not, a gentle reminder may be all that is needed. In a busy call center, having a break station equipped with snacks provides your employees with a place to get a quick break and come back rejuvenated.

Ability to Work Remotely

Thanks to COVID-19, employees have found the value of working from home. Many call center employees grew accustomed to working remotely. They do not have to worry about a long commute and can work from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Although it is not always possible to allow staff to work from home, even offering partial remote work options is a huge bonus. Consider providing the needed equipment to work from home, such as a laptop.

Flex Schedule

There is a growing trend towards employees placing great importance on balancing family and work. Allowing for a flex schedule helps team members find that perfect balance. For instance, let’s say an employee’s child has a sports event in the afternoon. A flex schedule means the employee can come in earlier in the morning to make up for the time they will miss because of the sports event. Giving the option of working around important family events is a benefit potential candidates want to see when applying for jobs.

Another option to add as a part of the flex schedule is to give employees a four-day workweek and a three-day weekend. It’s another way to help staff enjoy a work-life balance.

Well-Being Perks

Employees who are mentally and physically healthy will be more productive, happier, and tend to stay longer. The size of your company will depend on your options for offering employees well-being perks. If your call center is large enough, you may be able to have an on-site fitness facility and in-house counseling available to your employees. However, if you have a smaller call center, this may not be a feasible option. If this is the case, you may be able to work out a deal with a local fitness gym and counselor to provide discounted services to your team.

Education Scholarships

Top candidates are always interested in bettering themselves, primarily through education. To attract and keep top employees, it is advisable to offer some type of education scholarship or stipend that team members can take advantage of to further their education while working at the call center.

Many companies are willing to fund their employees’ education if they agree to stay with the company for an agreed-upon time, usually five years.

Do Your Benefits Attract Top Talent?

Trends do change, but certain benefits have been steady through the years. One of the best ways to make sure that you are on trend with your benefits is to ask current call center employees which benefits they like and what their wish list is.

Looking to Hire Top Talent? Salem Solutions Can Help!

When it comes time to hire your next team member, it is crucial to make sure they are a good fit for the culture of your call center. Salem Solutions is the nation’s most trusted staffing agency and specializes in call center staffing. Contact us today and let us help you make the right hire the first time!

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