Corded or wireless headsets are somewhat fragile pieces of equipment that can break easily and take a lot of abuse because they are used in a daily basis in a Call Center.
Here are 6 tips to prevent excessive wear and damage to one of your most important call center tools.
- Clean your headsets on a regular basis. Headsets can get very dirty, so be sure to gently clean makeup, sweat, dirt, and hair products off your headset periodically. If that dirt penetrates the outer casing of the unit, it can interfere with the operation of the headset. Disinfect and sanitize only with a damp cloth or alcohol-free wipes. Alcohol based cleaners can damage and dry out the plastics and will make the equipment look old and brittle.
- Replace components every 4 to 6 months. Periodically replace ear cushions, foam mic screens (if your headset has them), plastic voice tubes, ear tips and ear gels. Replacing components every 4 to 6 months. This will help reduce the spread of germs, colds and flu, which can ultimately lead to more sick time. If the foam is dry, stiff, dirty or falling apart, it needs to be replaced. Also if your headset came with a foam microphone screen always use it because it will make your voice sound more pleasant and professional. The foam eliminates the popping "P"s and "T"s and annoying breath puffs when you're on a call. The foam microphone screen also helps protect the microphone from moisture and other elements that may cause damage to the electronics. (Many newer headsets have the screen built into the mic, so they don't have an external foam screen.) You may use mild soap and water to clean your foam pieces. Voice tubes can become brittle with age, so plan on replacing them every 6 to 12 months. Voice tubes can also become clogged, which impairs transmit volume. It's a good idea to have a stock of accessories on hand.
- Take care of the cords! If you have corded headsets, never pull on the cord to remove it from the device. Only remove the device directly at the adapter, or the cord might break off from the adapter and the interior wires will fray. Try not to twist or twirl the cord while using. This is often done unconsciously and habitually, but it can damage the wire and shorten the life of the headset. Also, avoid wrapping cords around the headset unit when storing, since this will weaken the cord and can cause the plastic covering around the wires to deteriorate over time.
- Do not drop a wireless headset or throw it down on a table or desk. Many headsets have small interior components that can break loose, damaging the entire unit.
- Avoid extreme temperatures and moisture. Direct sunlight and temperatures +110 degrees F can change the shape of the plastic parts of your headset, and extremely cold temperatures below 14 degrees F can diminish the battery life. Both extremes can negatively affect the operation of the headset. Keep your headset away from moisture. Exposing your headset to excessive sweating can short out some of the electrical components of the headset. Wireless headsets are particularly susceptible to this problem.
- Store your headset on a hook, or in your drawer. We recommend always storing your headset in the same place and keeping the cord free of obstruction to reduce wear and tear. If you have a headset storage pouch, use it to transport your headset. See "Cases" under "All Accessories" on this site.
How does your staff take care of their Call Center Headsets?