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If you’ve been reading about work-at-home opportunities, you’ve probably come across Liveops. Liveops is a call center that takes several types of calls from their clients. If you’re interested in remote positions and don’t mind being on the phone, keep reading for the full story on working as a Liveops agent.
Liveops Jobs
These are all phone-related jobs, either making or receiving calls (or both!). Calls are made and received for inbound sales, insurance sales, insurance claims, health care, roadside assistance, and general customer service. Liveops contracts with programs and companies that need these types of agents, and hire independent agents to handle the calls. That’s where you come in!
Each “category” of call is referred to as a “line” with Liveops. As a call center agent, you can choose to work on one line, multiple lines, or even all of them. They recommend here that you pick one line to start with and then expand as you get more comfortable and build your skills.
With Liveops, you’re hired as an independent contractor with a six-month contract. That means that you’re not entitled to employee benefits… but it also means that you have a lot of control over when and where you’ll work. You set your own hours (though you have to be “on the clock” for a minimum of 30 minutes each work session) and work as much or as little as you want.
As an independent agent, you’ll have access to resources and training to help you learn how to improve. There are program specialists and other staff members at Liveops dedicated to helping you, answering your questions, and giving the extra support you need as you learn the ropes or work through any challenges that may come up. You’ll also have access to all the other Liveops agents via forums where you can share information and strategies for all aspects of your work.
Getting Paid with Liveops
There isn’t a set pay rate when you work with Liveops — your pay is determined mostly by the clients on the line you choose to work. Some clients pay a flat rate per minute of actual talk time (for example, a typical rate is 25 cents per minute of talk time). Some will pay a base rate with a commission bonus, and others are entirely commission-based.
When it’s time to get paid, it’s your responsibility to submit your invoice using the Liveops platform. Payments are made by Liveops (not by your clients) and can be made by check or direct deposit twice a month.
What It Takes to Work from Home With LiveOps
Because this is a job that requires you to work on the phone, you’ll need a workspace that is in a quiet place and free of distractions. That said, because you set your own hours, you can just decide to work when it’s quiet. Customer service experience is a plus!
Before you can start working with Liveops, you’ll need to complete their certification course. There’s no fee for the course, but you also aren’t compensated for your time taking it. There are additional certification courses and product knowledge that you might be required to learn, and those aren’t paid for either. The trade-off, however, is that once you’re certified or have mastered a given product and understand its new features, you’re qualified for more work that might come with better pay.
Logistically speaking, you’ll need a few things. A dedicated phone line, internet connection, headset, and computer are must-haves. The Liveops platform isn’t compatible with Apple’s operating system at the moment, so you’ll need a Windows computer. You’ll also need to get your own Tax Identification Number — either a social security number or an Employer Identification Number (EINs are free from the IRS and easy to get — they’re a great alternative if you don’t want to share your social security number).
Liveops agents must live in the US and be 18 or older. You’ll go through a multi-step application process that includes a background check and a voice audition. Once you get through the application and pass the onboarding certification, you’ll be able to start taking calls and making money.
Perks of Working With Liveops
Many of the perks that come with working for Liveops have to do with flexibility. You truly can pick your own hours. You “determine your own destiny” in a sense by picking the opportunities that are the best fit for you, and by continuing to learn and grow in the process. There is typically a minimum number of hours you need to work each week to remain active. That’s determined by the client and may be as little as 10 hours per week.
Working with Liveops might not be the most lucrative work-at-home opportunity out there — frankly, the pay isn’t great unless you’re bringing in hefty commissions — but it’s a great way to get started with working from home. It also makes a fantastic way to supplement your other income streams in your downtime. In fact, many of their agent success stories are from people who do Liveops in addition to other part-time jobs! If you want to get your feet wet by working from home, this might be the right way to get started.
Downsides of Liveops Jobs
While some people aren’t comfortable with sales calls, these are the opportunities that come with the highest payoff. Otherwise, the pay is on the lower end of the scale. Many of the incoming sales calls are from people who saw an advertisement in an infomercial, direct mail campaign, or other marketing campaign and are interested in the products. By being knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful, you’ll not only provide a great service to these customers, but you’ll be able to grow your own income.
Additionally, your phone line must be dedicated solely to Liveops. That means you can only have one designated “home office” at any given point. You won’t be able to take work calls while you’re on vacation, for example, though if it’s a long vacation you can have your business address transferred. The position is truly home-based.
Training opportunities aren’t paid, though they do open the door to better earnings in the future. And many people don’t like commission-based work, which might make it tough to make the kind of money you want to make from home.
Stacie’s Liveops Nation Story
Stacie is a member of Liveops Nation. Liveops has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and has been voted one of the Top 100 Remote Work Companies to watch by FlexJobs. Stacie has been working from home as a customer service representative for Liveops for over a year and has a wonderful story to tell.
Why did you choose to work from home?
I was a stay-at-home mom for over 17 years, putting my family first and devoting much of my time to caring for my disabled son and three other children. Our son passed away in November 2013 after 14 years of valiantly fighting; teaching lessons of love and gratitude to all who knew him. There was an emptiness that could never be filled, but with time I knew I had so much more to give. I needed an outlet. A way to feel fulfilled and productive while still being present for my family and Liveops gave me the work-life balance I needed.
What made you apply to Liveops?
I really stumbled upon Liveops. As I mentioned, I was in search of an amazing company that provided the flexibility I needed while still filling the need to do so much more. When I started with Liveops, something just felt different. I remember slinking off into the basement to record my voice audition; away from the noisiness that is my household. Each step of the way I felt more excited, nervous, and like I was on the precipice of something big. Something that was going to change our lives. Dramatic? Maybe. True? Absolutely. I jumped in headfirst and have never looked back.
How long have you been with the company?
I’ve been a part of Liveops Nation for the past 1½ years.
How has this position allowed you to meet your personal needs/goals?
The work-life balance I have attained as an independent agent has proven to be, by far, the most amazing benefit of being a part of Liveops Nation. My partnership with Liveops has empowered me to flourish as an independent business owner while fitting beautifully into our lifestyle; allowing me to continue being present for my children and family. In all honesty, I still pinch myself. That ever-elusive work-life balance has become a reality and for that, I am truly grateful.
Liveops maintains a comprehensive and robust learning environment accompanied by an amazing support network that emphasizes agent accountability while facilitating individual achievement. Liveops has proven to be a committed partner providing agents with the tools and resources vital to success. This has given me the opportunity to not only contribute to our family’s financial security but, most importantly, to attain a sense of self. To find a “new” me.
There is immense pride in the work I do. As an independent agent providing support to patients, I am both thankful and acutely cognizant of the impact human connection has on one’s overall well-being. This isn’t just a “job,” this is a calling. Being able to support, connect with, listen to and ultimately forge relationships of trust and hope with our folks has filled me with such gratitude and appreciation. I am truly indebted to Liveops for this opportunity to serve.
What challenges do you face in this position?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced as an agent is exercising patience. The wonderful thing about partnering with Liveops is the great potential for growth and change. With so many clients offering different opportunities it’s easy to want to jump right in and tackle an exciting new line. This process can, understandably, take time.
I started out in a sales position and while I enjoyed it thoroughly I was anxious to put my skills and knowledge to use in an area that I felt better suited for. When the opportunity finally presented itself I was excited and elated! My hard work, dedication, and patience had proven to be the key to my future success and was about to pay off in ways that I never dreamed possible.
What’s your typical week like? (ex. scheduling, working a shift, getting paid, etc.)
I typically work Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is the schedule that works best for me but the beauty of being a part of Liveops Nation is that I can tweak my schedule to accommodate my life. If I need to start later or finish earlier, take a day off, or squeeze in an appointment I have the latitude to do so which, when raising children, is an absolutely amazing perk! Hands down one of THE best aspects of the job!
I love invoicing! It is a great motivator to see the fruits of my labor when I log in. It definitely serves to help set and achieve my personal goals!
Liveops is both prompt and professional when it comes to paying invoices. We have the choice of a paper check or direct deposit. I chose the latter and payments on my invoices are always accurate and on time.
Liveops Application Process
The following answers have been provided to us by the Liveops SVP of Marketing.
What’s the application process like?
Fully available online, the application process is an easy step-by-step process. Since we do require a background and credit check, the process typically takes a couple of weeks to complete.
Are there any fees involved?
There is no fee to apply; however, all independent contractors invited to provide services for our clients must pass a background and credit check which is conducted through a third party, Checkr. This process requires a non-refundable $60 fee for background and credit check services.
How long do you keep resumes on file?
Joining Liveops Nation is like starting your very own small business. Agents hold the reigns. As independent contractors, they can decide when, where, and how long to provide services as their schedule permits. Agents can choose what programs they would like to participate in during their contract period. The more programs they certify to provide services for, the more opportunities they have to generate revenue for their business. In fact, we just met with an agent from Dayton who has worked as an independent contractor for many years and she is thrilled with the flexibility that Liveops provides.
What timeframe can be expected from acceptance to the first paycheck?
Certification time varies for each opportunity, but most agents complete new agent onboarding within two weeks. Agents are able to develop the necessary hard and soft skills to efficiently carry out the tasks required by our customers. Agents are paid on receipt of invoices by either check or direct deposit — whichever the agent prefers.
Is this a good job for someone needing a flexible schedule and/or still working a full-time job outside of the home?
Absolutely. Liveops agents have the opportunity to work around their lives. They have complete control of the opportunities and the time commitments that they decide to pursue. The agent can log in 30 minutes or 60 hours during the week, depending on what works best for him/her. This is exactly why our agents love being a part of Liveops Nation.
Can you give us an average hourly pay or average pay range?
Your business’ revenue is completely dependent upon your performance and the volume of service you provide, as well as the type of program that you choose. Some of our clients pay a straight talk-time rate, generally 25 cents per minute of talk time, and some pay a base rate plus a bonus for commission. Some programs pay entirely on commission. Sales incentives can dramatically increase revenue for your home business, so the better service you provide, the greater your revenue potential.
Any tips for applying?
Really think about what it is you enjoy doing and how you see your career developing over time. Agents are able to constantly evolve both their hard and soft skills as well as to truly become experts in their particular interest areas — which is why our clients trust Liveops to help carry out their work with a flexible workforce.
Is LiveOps Right for You?
There’s no right or wrong answer to that question. LiveOps is a great entry-level position for at-home calling and sales, and it can open the door for other (perhaps better-paying) opportunities for you. If you’re looking for something that will replace a substantial full-time salary, LiveOps probably won’t get you there. But if you’re looking for an easy way to make some money from home on your own schedule, it’s worth considering!
