9 Ways to Reduce Background Noise in Call Centres & Improve Acoustic

In the vibrant world, call centres have caught on in business. Call centres are crucial in business growth; they are the backbone of the companies. Businesses get big clients and deals if they work in a peaceful environment.

Maintaining clear communication between agents and customers is crucial in the hustling world of the best companies. Background noise limits effective conversation and can lead to employee discomfort and productivity. 

Upgrading acoustics and reducing noise can considerably improve call centre performance and employee comfort. Here are nine practical approaches to minimize background noise in call centres and improve acoustics. 

1. Implement Sound Masking Systems

Sound masking includes the introduction of a low-level, subtle background sound to reduce speech clarity and other disturbing noises. These systems can be effectively placed throughout the call centre to make a more efficient sound environment. 

By filling the space with a uniform sound, generally a combination of frequencies related to white noise, it becomes easier for employees to focus on their tasks without being interrupted by nearby conversations.

2. Use Acoustic Panels and Baffles

Installing acoustic foam panels and baffles in your buildings is the best choice to reduce echo and improve sound absorption. These panels can be attached to walls, ceilings, and floors to suppress noise. 

Hanging acoustic baffles from the ceiling can help in large open spaces by splitting up sound waves and reducing echoes. These materials absorb and dissipate sound, making the environment quieter and more concentrated.

3. Use Acoustic screens and Desk Dividers 

Incorporating acoustic screens and desk dividers in noise-affected areas can significantly enhance the working environment by reducing background noise and improving acoustic quality. These tools not only foster better communication and privacy but also contribute to a more productive and comfortable workplace. 

By strategically placing acoustic screens and desk dividers, soundproof rooms can achieve a quieter, more focused, and more efficient environment, ultimately leading to better customer service and employee satisfaction.

4. Designate Quiet Zones

A designated quiet zone within the call centre offers employees refuge from the noisy main area. These zones are used for high-concentration tasks or making crucial calls. 

Integrating soundproof booths or quiet rooms equipped with extra sound-absorbing materials can significantly improve the acoustic quality of these spaces. These booths are fully acoustic and moveable. You can attend personal phone calls and meetings in booths.

5. Optimize Office Layout

Noise levels are highly affected by the physical layout of the office. Arranging workstations to decrease straight-line sight and sound between employees can reduce noise. 

Consider using partitions or cubicles high enough to block sound but not so high completely. Optimise isolated employees. 

Additionally, placing noisier equipment, such as acoustic furniture, printers, and copiers, in separate rooms can stop their operation from contributing to the overall noise level.

6. Incorporate Soft Furnishings

Through the use of soft furnishings such as carpets, curtains, and cushioned furniture, you can improve sound- absorption and reduce noise levels. In particular, the damping noise from footsteps and moving chair carpeting is compelling. You can make your environment quieter and more absorbing by covering your walls with curtains or fabric-covered.

By Incorporating these elements into the office design, you can enhance acoustics and create a more comfortable, attractive, and inviting workspace.

7. Implement Advanced Headsets

Investing in top-quality headsets with noise-control features can make a significant difference in the clarity of communication for call centre agents. These noise-cancelling headsets are only made to filter out background noise, enabling agents to hear and be heard more distinctly. 

Additionally, offering staff soft, well-fitting headsets can reduce the need to increase voice volume and reduce overall noise levels.

8. Regular Maintenance and Upgrades

Regular maintenance of office equipment and framework can help you keep noise levels under control. 

For example, by ensuring that air conditioning units, ventilation systems, and office machines are in good working order, you can prevent them from becoming sources of disturbing noise. Upgrading older, noisier equipment to newer, quieter models can create a more serene working environment. 

By consistently examining and maintaining sound masking systems and acoustic treatments, you can ensure they continue to perform effectively.

9. Encourage Noise Etiquette

Encouraging responsible noise practices among employees can be helpful in creating a quieter call centre environment. Educate your staff on the importance of maintaining a comfortable noise range and encourage behaviours that reduce noise, such as speaking softly and using messaging apps for non-urgent communications. Defining parameters for common areas and break rooms can also help minimize noise overflow into the main working areas.

Why should you use an acoustic panel in a call centre?

Reducing background noise in a call centre and improving acoustics requires a multifaceted approach. By implementing these strategies, you can make your call centre a comfy haven. These methods are noise-reducing agents to achieve a high level of comfort and a quieter, more attractive, and more inviting workplace for the staff and customers.