Despite living in a digital world, customer service is more important than ever. People want fast, efficient contact with human beings, and they expect to be able to communicate using any device. In call centers, it makes sense that artificial intelligence (AI) is being implemented to streamline processes, improve customer experience, and empower agents.

The global market value of call centers is estimated to reach $494 billion by 2030, yet 50% of customers believe that the customer service and support from most companies need significant improvement. 

For such a lucrative industry, there are still a number of ways that call centers can optimize their services and ensure customer satisfaction, as well as boost productivity and lower costs in the business.

Here’s how AI is changing call centers for the better, and for good. 

1. Intelligent chatbots improve answers and access to agents

Virtual agents powered by AI are becoming commonplace in call centers. These chatbots use Natural Language Processing to answer frequently asked questions from customers and assist customers with basic actions. 

By automating routine processes, these chatbots give agents more time to deal with complex issues. Not to mention, chatbots are available 24/7, so customers can utilize them at any time, in any location, dramatically improving response times and resolutions.

2. Call routing connects customers to the right solution

Perhaps one of the most impactful applications of AI in call centers is for call routing. Intelligent Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems are built upon AI and automatically direct calls to the most suitable agent or department. 

The decision is based on data like historical interactions and customer information, and ultimately reduces waiting time and ensures that customers are connected to the person who can best help them.

Alternatively, AI-powered call routing can offer customers self-service options that allow them to find a resolution themselves, if that option meets their needs accordingly.

3. Predictive analytics inform agents ahead of time

Call centers have no shortage of data. This data can be leveraged to gain valuable customer insights that contribute to more personalized experiences. 

AI can analyze vast amounts of data like previous customer interactions, purchase history, and customer preferences, and highlight trends that inform call center agents and managers moving forward. For example, AI can predict customer behavior, anticipate needs, and make appropriate product or service recommendations. 

Predictive analytics can additionally be used to identify customer churn risks, so call center agents can implement proactive retention strategies and pay close attention to customers that are more likely to leave.

4. Sentiment and emotional analysis enhances customer experience

AI not only functions as a tool for speed and efficiency in call centers, it also contributes to stronger relationships between customers and businesses. The technology can conduct sentiment analysis and emotional detection. Hence, determining how satisfied customers are with the support they have received from an agent. 

Taking into account tone of voice and speech patterns, AI can gauge customer feelings and suggest how to rectify negative interactions. This type of analysis means customers remain loyal, agents know how to deal with difficult communication, and businesses have a more in-depth understanding of their customers’ preferences.

5. Real-time performance monitoring means more resolutions

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Call centers rely on top-quality agents engaging with customers in a professional, friendly, and informative way. To ensure that agents are constantly learning and adapting to emerging customer needs, AI can facilitate quality assurance for calls. 

Algorithms automatically evaluate recordings, chat transcripts, and customer feedback, review how agents performed, and highlight areas for improvement. Moreover, this feedback can be produced in real-time so that agents can make necessary adjustments on the spot.

Performance monitoring from AI can also be included in quarterly or annual staff reviews. Showcasing where agents are doing well and what they should focus on to advance their careers.

6. Speech recognition advances English fluency and pronunciation

It’s common for call centers to hire people who speak English as a second language. However, staff have to have good pronunciation and be able to understand customers easily in order to provide excellent service. AI-powered apps like ELSA for Business therefore empower agents to speak English fluently. 

Call center agents can receive detailed advice about pronunciation, intonation, grammar, and more by responding to prompts in the ELSA app. They can also upload customer recordings and get a tailored analysis of their speaking and listening capabilities. 

Similarly, there are bite-size, practical tasks that call center staff can complete in the app to improve their English incrementally. 

In fact, 90% of ELSA learners who use the app for 10 minutes a day over a three-month period said they saw an improvement in their English pronunciation.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing call centers, allowing businesses to deliver exceptional customer service and form long-lasting customer relationships. AI is modernizing call centers and still catering to a time-old customer need – to speak with a human. From intelligent virtual chatbots to advanced call routing, sentiment analysis, and predictive analytics.

Moreover, AI is making human-to-human contact better by furthering agents’ English learning. The result is quicker problem-solving, happier customers, and more successful businesses.

AI is calling, is your company ready to pick up?