Raspy or Sore Throats: A Call Center Representative's Guide

Whether you work from a virtual office or on-site, the one thing that anyone who does phone work has to deal with is a sore throat. After non-stop talking for eight or more hours, what else can be expected? If you follow a few simple steps you can reduce or even eliminate this irritating problem.

Keep hot tea with you while you work. It is easier for an at home worker to keep a cut of hot tea by the desk but most on site call centers would not object. Drinking some nice tea with honey a few sips at a time through out the day will do wonders for your throat and voice. When ever you start to feel you voice going take a drink and stop the problem before it starts. Avoid acidic teas, such as green tea, as they will make the problem worse. Health food shops, brick n' mortar and online, carry teas that are specifically for the throat. These are best if you can get them.

Take brakes when working long shifts. Yes this is harder to do than it sounds, especially when things are busy. No matter how busy you are it is very important that you rest your voice. If you can manage a 5 minute brake every hour that is great but if than is not possible then at least a 5 minute brake every 3 or so hours is essential. If your on site manager has a problem with frequent brakes explain that you are more productive when you voice is working properly. If that doesn't work advise them that taking a brake now could avid a sick day latter.

If work is slow enough, try sucking on a hard candy between calls. This helps keep your mouth moistened and you speech clearer. Just don't eat a chocolate candy because chocolate, although very tasty, is very bad for your throat. It makes it raw faster and increases inflammation. Also avoid any thing that is harsh or acidic. A super sour candy will only make matters worse.

If all else fails don't hesitate to take a painkiller. Just be sure that it is the non drowsy kind. It would be very bad if you took a painkiller then started to get drowsy or worse actually fell asleep! Remember that a pain killer, though effective, only cover the problem up. Prevention is better than cure!