As Women’s History Month comes to a close, Outsource Consultants wants to celebrate the incredible women leading the call center industry.
Women have always been a driving force behind call center excellence, (71% of global employees are women) — but this representation has not scaled as quickly at the ownership level.
In 2024, expectations are that MORE women-owned call centers will gain client share because of the unique advantages clients are seeing by partnering with women-owned, best-fit partners.
Here’s why partnering with a women-owned call center might be the perfect move for your business:
Diversity and a Culture of Connection
Women make up a significant portion of the call center workforce. As they gain experience, it’s natural for them to pursue leadership roles and, increasingly, ownership positions. This upward mobility creates a powerful double benefit.
The first advantage is that women leaders bring unique perspectives and approaches to the table. This diversity of thought strengthens decision-making and problem-solving within the call center.
The second is a clear path to advancement for female agents which fosters a sense of inclusivity and belonging. Studies even show that companies with strong female leadership have higher employee engagement and retention. This translates to a more stable and motivated workforce, ultimately leading to better customer service for your business.
Strong Leadership and Growth Potential
Women-owned businesses are experiencing tremendous growth. In fact, between 2012 and 2019, US-based women-owned businesses grew at a rate of 16.7%, significantly outpacing the growth of male-owned businesses (5.2%). This translates to several advantages for your company when you choose a women-owned call center partner.
First, it signifies strong leadership. The impressive growth rate suggests a keen ability to navigate the market, adapt to changing circumstances, and make strategic decisions. This leadership translates into a BPO provider well-equipped to handle your company’s needs and grow alongside you.
Second, you’re partnering with a company on a trajectory of sustainable growth. This means a call center partner with a long-term vision, constantly innovating and improving. You can expect a BPO provider focused on staying ahead of the curve and continuously seeking ways to deliver exceptional service.
Innovative Problem-Solving
Studies show that around 60% of female-led businesses achieve higher ESG scores. But what does that mean for you?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It’s a framework used to measure a company’s commitment to sustainable practices, social responsibility, and ethical leadership. So, a higher ESG score indicates a strong focus on these areas.
Here’s how this translates to your benefit: Businesses with strong ESG practices are known for their innovative problem-solving and adaptability. They’re adept at making smart decisions that minimize risk, both for the environment and their stakeholders. This translates to a BPO partner with a proactive approach to challenges, potentially leading to cost savings and a smoother overall experience for your business.
Increased Government Support and Opportunities for U.S. Businesses
Here’s some good news for U.S. companies considering outsourcing to women-owned call centers: the government is on your side!
The federal government has a strong commitment to supporting women-owned businesses. Their goal is to award at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars to these businesses each year. This means that by partnering with a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) certified call center, your company becomes eligible for a wider range of government contracts.
But the benefits go beyond just eligibility. The federal government also offers tax breaks to companies that partner with WBEs. Additionally, projects funded by state or federal grants or loans often come with reduced tax obligations for companies working with WBE call centers.
Find Your Perfect Fit Woman-Owned BPO Partner
Partnering with a women-owned call center can offer a unique blend of diversity, strong leadership, and innovative problem-solving. It’s a smart move for businesses seeking a reliable and high-performing partner for their customer service needs.