Whether you’re currently working as a telecom engineer or want to take your career in that direction, having the right telecom skills is essential. While some of what you need to bring to the table may seem obvious, other capabilities may be somewhat new to the required skills lists created by employers. Mainly, this is because hybrid and remote work have altered the landscape, shifting certain communication and technology-related needs.
Fortunately, you can still make improvements in the right areas by tracking specific industry trends. Here’s a look at the telecom skills you’ll want to master before 2023.
Vendor Relationship Management
Many telecom professionals are tasked with managing a range of vendor relationships. Commonly, this involves coordinating with telephony providers and ensuring the proper services are in place to support operations. Additionally, working with equipment and supply vendors is normally part of the equation, regardless of whether you lease or own the equipment. Similarly, installations may involve vendors, depending on the nature of the work.
By knowing how to maintain positive vendor relationships, you’re often more effective in your role. Plus, you may have an easier time securing the best price or getting last-minute support, both of which make you better in your position and more valuable in the eyes of your employer.
End-User Support
Many telephony professionals have had end-user support responsibilities during their careers. However, demand for this capability has increased at many companies, particularly those that embrace remote or hybrid work.
While many end users are tech-savvy, others may need explicit guidance regarding the use of telephone technologies. Additionally, issues are guaranteed to arise on occasion. As a result, employers favor telecom professionals with experience supporting end users. Whether that’s functioning as part of a help desk, handling advanced technical issues, creating customized user guides, or anything else, being able to assist end users well can help you stand out from the crowd.
IVR
Interactive Voice Response (IVR) helps companies automate a portion of their communication system. Since that can boost efficiency, many organizations prefer hiring telecom professionals with experience in the IVR arena.
While IVR may be viewed as a must-have if you work in contact center environments, it potentially provides value to any type of company with a relatively high call volume. As a result, it can help you stand apart from other candidates, particularly if you present it as a way to modernize a company’s operations.
VoIP and Soft Phone Technology
Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology gives companies specific telecom advantages that aren’t as easily captured with other systems. Generally, VoIP increases portability and supports mobility within a workplace. Plus, it can offer better call quality and supports advanced features.
Soft phone technology specifically works well for remote or hybrid environments. It allows employees to have the equivalent of a desk phone as an app on their computer, making it easier to remain connected and place calls as if they’re coming from a traditional desk line.
Ideally, telecom engineers should have a solid understanding of VoIP and any related hardware and software. That allows them to support this approach to telephony with greater ease, something that today’s employers are after.
TekCom Wants to Hear From You!
Ultimately, all of the telecom skills above are worth mastering before 2023. If you’d like to find out more about how you can boost your telecom career, the team at TekCom wants to hear from you. Contact us today.
