I Could Use Your Help/Advice

[windy252]

I could use some help. I have a situation going on at my job I work in customer service and used to be very good. However, the job’s quality standards have gotten completely unreasonable. While I understand that they want us to react, and have been criticized for having the same tone all the time, I have been working on this.

I have even been using a videogame to measure changes in my tone and the game will acknowledge, but my bosses apparently will not. I would love to quit, but can not afford it at this time. I was feeling really depressed and nearly suicidal earlier, though talking to my mother made me feel better as apparently a lot of workplaces are playing mind games with their employees but I still would like to talk to someone. I don’t want to have to worry about being fired everyday, especially after I’ve been trying damn hard on my end.

[MrMickeysMom]

1. I don't think I get it- your boss thinks your voice is not convincing enough?

What it is?

[windy252]

6. close.

basically thinks I'm too monotone even though I have been working on that and the game I mentioned has indicated my tone is improving.

[MrMickeysMom]

8. It's not like you're not trying to address it...

I guess it's time to move on... scary, but perhaps this is a sign that you are working for a bunch of (welcome to the club) FUCKING LOOSERS.

[MrsBrady]

2. maybe talk to an acting coach

I know that sounds crazy, but they can help you with how to express emotion...to make what is internal external

I'm a songwriter, but have taken comedy improv and acting classes...
it really has helped me as a performer.

[windy252]

3. I don't think I could afford that n/t

[windy252]

4. I don't think I could afford that n/t

[windy252]

5. I don't think I could afford that n/t

[question everything]

7. Stand in front of a mirror and try "play acting"

Try to smile, raise your eyebrows, get the facial muscles at an upward motion. And while play acting, you can vary your voice, not just the tone, but the cadence, emphasize different words, just see how you like what you see and hear.

Also, when addressed by a customer, attempt to repeat what s/he said, but paraphrase it. This way both of you are talking about the same thing.

[madeline_con]

9. question everything is right. With the expressions come the feelings.

Basically, you're paid to fake interest, so play it up. Be happy happy, joy joy with the customers. Let them "hear" the smile.

[crispini]

10. Is this customer service over the phone?

You might try standing up for short periods of time -- that will make you sound more animated automatically. You might try listening to your own calls as well and thinking about how you can improve. I know call center work is a difficult situation but surely they must appreciate you as it is hard to get good employees in call centers!