Skip to content

What is the difference between a call centre and a contact centre?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a call centre and a contact centre?

While the terms “call centre” and “contact centre” are often used interchangeably, there is a distinction between the two. A call centre primarily focuses on handling a large volume of phone calls, and its functions are usually limited to telephonic communication. This includes both inbound calls, such as customer inquiries and support, and outbound calls for telemarketing, customer feedback, or information dissemination. On the other hand, a contact center encompasses a broader range of communication channels. In addition to handling phone calls like a call center, contact centers also manage communications through email, chat, social media, and sometimes even SMS and video conferencing. This multi-channel approach enables contact centers to offer a more versatile and comprehensive customer service experience. In the modern business environment, where customers expect to interact with organizations through various channels, contact centers are becoming increasingly popular as they cater to these diverse communication preferences and provide a more holistic approach to customer engagement.

The importance of call centers is evident in their role as a primary communication channel between companies and their customers. They are crucial in handling a large volume of inbound and outbound calls efficiently, which is vital for customer service, support, and relationship management. For many customers, speaking with a representative over the phone remains the preferred method of communication, especially for urgent or complex issues. Call centres also play an essential role in sales and marketing campaigns through telemarketing and outreach efforts. Furthermore, they collect valuable data and insights on customer preferences and behaviour through interactions, which can be used to improve products, services, and customer experiences. For businesses seeking a cost-effective way to manage phone communications at scale, call centres are indispensable.

Contact centres, on the other hand, represent the evolution of customer communication by integrating multiple channels beyond just voice calls. The importance of contact centres stems from their ability to meet modern customer expectations for diverse communication options. With the prevalence of digital communication, customers now expect to be able to reach companies not only via phone but also through email, chat, social media, and other channels. Contact centres allow businesses to offer this multi-channel communication, which is critical for customer satisfaction and engagement. By providing customers with the flexibility to choose their preferred method of communication, contact centers facilitate more accessible and efficient customer interactions. Additionally, by integrating different communication channels, contact centres can provide a more seamless and consistent customer experience, which is essential in building brand loyalty and trust.

Try Our Call Centre Services Free

What better way to see if we’re a good fit than trying our call answering service for free?

Our Most Popular Services

Business phone solutions for any scale of business starting at:

Call Answering

Let our professional team take care of your calls and messages.
  • 24/7 Reception Service
  • Fully Customizable
  • Toll Free Number
Popular