What do you need to get started working from home? Part 3

Let's talk phones and headsets. There are a lot of choices these days when it comes to your phone carrier. Digital, analog, VOIP, cable, etc. Your choice in phone service can impact which companies you can perform services for. Choose wisely.

Many work at home call center positions will require a dedicated landline free of any additional services such as call-waiting. Now before you start thinking you need to install a whole new phone line, think about your options. If you currently have a landline, you might be able to have that number assigned to your cell phone or an IP phone service such as Vonage and just establish a new phone number on your currently installed line. This will most likely be the economical solution. Also, when obtaining a new phone line, think hard about what you say to the phone company. Using the words 'business line' will cost more. Trust me on this.

You will need a good headset. There are a number of different headsets available. I prefer a cordless headset which allows me to walk throughout my home without missing a call. Think carefully about your phone usage when making your selection. Be sure to choose a noise-canceling headset. I am partial to Plantronics.