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Contact Center Agent Training in the AI Era: What Skills Need Improvement?

08 April 2025

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As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies continue to evolve in the customer service world, the role of contact center agents has not disappeared—rather, it has become more strategic. Amid the widespread use of chatbots, voicebots, and other automated systems, human agents are still essential for handling complex cases, showing empathy, and creating memorable customer experiences. Therefore, companies, especially those in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, must adapt their agent training programs to remain relevant and competitive in this digital era.

The Transformation of the Contact Center Agent Role

In the past, contact center agents mainly answered basic inquiries, resolved common complaints, or transferred calls to other departments. Today, as AI handles more routine tasks, contact center agents serve as problem-solvers, customer consultants, and brand ambassadors.

Agents must be able to:

  • Handle escalations that AI cannot resolve

  • Provide service with a personal and empathetic approach

  • Leverage technology to deliver fast and accurate information

To fulfill these roles effectively, agents must improve certain skills to meet the demands of the times.

Essential Skills Contact Center Agents Need to Improve in the AI Era

1. Emotional Intelligence
While technology can deliver quick responses, humans still excel in empathy and emotional understanding. Agents with high emotional intelligence can:

  • Recognize and manage their own emotions

  • Read customers’ moods

  • Express empathy sincerely and professionally

Role-playing, coaching, and real-life simulation training can help sharpen this skill.

2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
AI may suggest data-based solutions, but the final decision often rests with the agent. Therefore, logical thinking, the ability to analyze complex situations, and provide timely solutions are critical.

Agents should be trained to:

  • Quickly assess information

  • Identify the root cause of customer issues

  • Offer appropriate recommendations

3. Technology Savviness and Digital Literacy
Modern agents must work alongside technology. This means they must be proficient in:

  • Using omnichannel platforms

  • Navigating AI-powered tools, such as suggestion engines or sentiment analysis

  • Managing CRM systems and analytics dashboards

Good digital literacy enhances both service accuracy and productivity.

4. Multichannel Communication Skills
In an omnichannel era, communication happens not just by phone, but also via email, live chat, social media, and messaging apps. Agents need to:

  • Master communication styles suitable for each channel

  • Maintain brand message consistency

  • Adjust tone based on customer type

5. Adaptability and Growth Mindset
The contact center landscape is constantly changing. Agents who are flexible and open to change can more easily adapt to new systems, work methods, and unexpected challenges. Companies should encourage a culture of continuous learning and self-development.

Effective Strategies for Contact Center Agent Training

Agent training can no longer be one-directional or a one-time event. In the AI era, training must:

  • Use a blended learning approach, combining e-learning, in-person classes, and hands-on practice

  • Be continuous, with regularly updated materials

  • Incorporate the latest technology, such as AI-based simulations or chatbot training

  • Include customer feedback as learning material

With the right approach, training not only enhances technical skills but also shapes resilient agents who are prepared to thrive in a digital world.

 

In the AI era, contact center agents are not merely supporting automated systems—they are key to delivering meaningful and differentiated customer experiences. With the right training, companies can equip agents with a powerful combination of technical and interpersonal skills to face the challenges of the digital age.

PT VADS Indonesia is your trusted partner in providing well-trained, professional contact center agents who are ready to work in harmony with cutting-edge technology. With our expertise in technology-based customer service and ongoing training programs, PT VADS Indonesia is committed to helping your business deliver excellent and competitive customer experiences in this digital era.



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