Are you using Cisco Finesse contact center software with Jabra headsets?

If you answered "yes," then the new Jabra CC Agent App is essential for your organization! The app integrates with both Jabra call controllers and Cisco Finesse contact center software. This app eliminates extra steps on the desktop, so that contact center agents are able to completely focus on calls – with the touch of a button. Software offerings such as this continue to push Jabra to the forefront of the headset market, and with its acquisition of VXi, looks to give Plantronics (currently the #1 headset brand in the United States) some fierce competition.

Jabra CC Agent App is a small application that, when installed on the Cisco Finesse Call Center softphone server, enables agents to control these three Finesse softphone features directly from their Jabra headset control boxes:

•Ready/Not Ready state (toggle) When changing the Ready/Not Ready state from the control box during an ongoing call, the contact center agent can, after the call, see the Ready/Not Ready state change in the Finesse browser.

•Record Call (if call recording function has been enabled in Finesse). Quickly choose to record the call with the press of a button, which is crucial for sensitive calls and for training purposes.

•Sign off

(Note that only two functions can be available at a time, which are selected by the Cisco Finesse server administrator, when installing the Jabra CC Agent App.)

The CC Agent App is compatible with Jabra Biz 2300 or Biz 2400 II headsets, or any Jabra headset when connected to a Link 260.

This software download is FREE and available at Jabra’s web site here: Jabra CC Agent App.

Since it is the season of celebrating love, we put together this list of a few of the things we love at our office.

Headsets

As a leading reseller of headsets, we are fortunate to test all of the high quality professional headsets that we sell. Some of our favorites today include the Jabra Evolve 40 and Evolve 65, Sennheiser SD Pro 1 and SD Pro 2, Jabra BIZ 2300, VXi V150 and from Plantronics, the Voyager Focus and Savi W730.

Why do we love these headsets? Many of them are wireless, lightweight, comfortable, and offer flexible connections. Whether we're on phone calls, streaming music, participating in webinars or videoconferencing, in the office or traveling, the headsets provide quality sound, noise cancelling mics, and in the case of the Voyager Focus, Active Noise Cancelling in the ear speakers that can be switched on and off.

The choice between corded or wireless; Bluetooth or DECT; single or duo ear; wearing style; desk phone, PC or mobile phone connection, and so much more means that you are getting a custom headset for your unique situation. The technology in these headsets is also top-of-line: hearing protections, wideband audio, and in the case of USB or UC headsets, firmware updates.

By no means is this an exhaustive list of our favorites; however, it is indicative of the size and scope of headsets that we offer.

Speakerphones

Turning our attention to conference phones and speakerphones, we are again fortunate to test most of the units that we sell. Some of our favorites include the Jabra Speak 510+, Konftel 300 and Sennheiser TeamConnect Wireless.

For smaller room conferencing needs, the Jabra Speak 510+ (both UC and MS versions) is perfect for those break-out sessions (less than 7 people). The 510+ comes with a Bluetooth dongle that will connect your PC to the Speak unit. It is also Bluetooth-enabled for conferences via smartphone or tablet, and can be hard-wired to a PC with the included USB cable that wraps underneath the speaker. This USB cable is connected to the Speak 510, so that it can never be accidentally misplaced.

For analog conference lines, the Konftel 300 is a top choice. Its sleek design looks great on any conference table, and the large buttons on the unit make call dialing easy. We also love its versatility, since it can also be connected to PCs, and with the purchase of an accessory cable, the unit can also be connected to smartphones and tablets. Expansion mics are available as an optional purchase to increase the coverage area of the Konftel 300. The final selection in this category is the Sennheiser TeamConnect Wireless system, which we use every week for our Monday morning meetings. With our work-at-home staff calling in, and the staff here in the office spread throughout a large-sized room, TeamConnect Wireless satellite mics can be placed strategically to pick up voices, no matter where they're located! The handy, hard-sided charging case that comes with this system truly makes the TeamConnect Wireless the most diverse conference unit that we offer.

Goodies

We are fortunate that our local Mountain Man representative keeps us stocked with candy, nut and snack choices. Passing through the break room, you're bound to find something yummy to munch on! A staff favorite: Cherry Sours candy. For salty snacks, our local popcorn company, Le-Vi Kettle Corn, delivers a variety of popcorn flavors that please most everyone.

We cannot forget about the beverages that keep us going, including our morning pot of LaRue Coffee, based out of Omaha, NE. The variety pack delivers deliciousness on the daily ... and offers such delectable choices as Chocolate Hazelnut, Jamaican Me Crazy and French Vanilla ... what more could an office staff want? After lunch, our beverage choices turn to our basket full of (caffeine free) Bigelow Teas. From Ginger Snappish to Girl Scout Thin Mints, the selection of choices keeps us nice and warm, especially during our cold Nebraska winters!

What do you love about your office? Leave us a comment on the Comments tab, above.

The brands that we sell provide professional-grade, high quality headsets for every user and situation. For those tasked with purchasing headsets for hearing aid users, we have put together a list of options by manufacturer. Please note that the headsets listed below end in quick disconnect and require a bottom cable as well. We recommend the purchase of an amplifier, rather than a QD cord, to boost the headset's performance.

EPOS

The Impact SC 660 TC, is a high quality wired headset. The SC 660 TC is compatible with all standard, telecoil-equipped hearing aids.

With EPOS Voice Clarity wideband sound and its ultra noise cancelling microphone, the SC 660 TC delivers a superior and natural voice experience that makes conversations crisp and crystal clear – optimizing speech intelligibility even in noisy contact center and office environments. In addition to the speaker, SC 660 TC is equipped with a hearing aid-compatible telecoil transmitter on both sides of the headset, resulting in a richer sound experience and offering the user the greater flexibility of a double-sided solution. The transmitters send a magnetic field that can be picked up directly by the hearing aid, making it easy for users to focus on a conversation. The headset features EPOS ActiveGard technology that protects users from acoustic shock and sudden sound bursts. MSRP is $349.95.

The EPOS UI 770 amplifier is the companion piece that we recommend. The EPOS UI 770 allows you to switch between the headset, handset and PC, adjust the volume of the headset speaker and mute the headset microphone. Its automatic power save function provides outstanding battery lifetime of up to 1 year. A "C" battery is included in the box. MSRP is $120.00.

Jabra

The GN2125 Telecoil headset is the solution for hearing aid users, who gain the benefits and increased work efficiencies associated with headsets.

Especially designed for people who use hearing aids, the Jabra GN2125 Telecoil is equipped with a hearing aid-compatible telecoil that is fitted to the plain side of the earpiece. The telecoil cancels out surrounding background sound while heightening the sound quality from the telephone. This gives hearing aid users clearer, crisper phone conversation that is free from interference from background noise. It features a noise-cancelling microphone to eliminate ambient noise. MSRP is $225.00.

The Jabra Link 860 amplifier features Digital Signal Processing, which sets the input signal to a certain level and makes sure the audio is not too loud. If the input signal is too high (the volume of the telephone is too loud), distortion may result. To resolve this issue, lower the volume of the phone to a medium level, and then use the Link 850/860 to raise the volume. MSRP is $135.00.

Plantronics

SupraPlus 261H is a Telecoil hearing-aid compatible headset. The SupraPlus series is a staple in the contact center world, and features a comfortable, adjustable headband for all-day wearing. The headset has a voice tube microphone. MSRP is $148.00.

The Plantronics Vista M22 amplifier works with the headset to provide the best possible sound. The amplifier has loud noise protection, advanced echo management, and background noise reduction. Two AA batteries are included. MSRP is $120.00.

If you're not quite sure what you need, reach out to us at 1.866.998.9991 for help. We're here to help you choose the best headset for your unique environment!

A new job can be fraught with anxiety as each office has new people, new expectations and a chance to make a great first impression that stays with you throughout your tenure at the organization. And we're not even referring to the actual job tasks, which can bring more anxiety as you work to meet the expectations laid out before you. No pressure, right?!

A professional office or contact center environment can be one of the best places to work, if you play the game. And, while each environment varies, there are some tried and true etiquette rules that you must remember. Here's what made our short list:

1. Cutting fingernails at your desk is a definite no.
2. Loud conversations on the phone or with co-workers is distracting to others not a part of the conversations. If you often find yourself unable to tune out those ambient noises, you might want to invest in a good headset with active noise cancellation. Read our blog post with recommendations for some great ANC headset options.
3. Sharing too much personal information may cause your co-workers to feel uncomfortable. Save those discussions for after hours.
4. Pay attention to the office dress code. Do not "out dress" your manager; if he is not wearing a 3-piece business suit, then you should not, either. Follow his lead. By the same token, do not "underdress;" meaning, no yoga pants, sweatpants, or pajama pants.
5. Kindness rules the day. Your co-workers are going to make mistakes, and so are you! Compassion saves relationships. You should never raise your voice, or yell and scream at someone.
6. Deliver what you promise.
7. Remember the Golden Rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated.

This staff training video from DFW adds some great tips and is a quick, 3-minute reminder. Check it out!

Office Etiquette - Staff Training Film - October 2014 from Natalie Blass on Vimeo.

What would you add to this list of office etiquette tips? Reply on the Comments tab, above.

What's the #1 skill that will raise your value by 50%, according to Warren Buffett? A recent Inc. post states the Buffett believes being a good public speaker brings dividends that, with an investment of time and effort, will pay off in the long run. He's in good company: a survey by Prezi revealed that 70% surveyed agree that public speaking and presentation skills are critical for career success, according to Forbes.

So what does that mean for the average worker? It's time to brush up on, or learn, the important art of public speaking. Speaking in front of other people can cause some to break out in a cold sweat — and they would prefer unpleasant medical procedures to subjecting themselves to the eyes of a judgmental audience.

If you weren't fortunate enough to participate in Speech and Debate at your high school, Toastmasters International is a nonprofit organization with a mission in communication and leadership development. With almost 16,000 clubs worldwide to choose from, find one close to home and join others who want to improve themselves and their speaking skills. Practice makes perfect, and with continuous chances to give speeches, the Toastmasters provide plenty of hands-on experience and feedback. Groups typically meet on a weekly basis.

If you just don't have the time to attend weekly meetings, a quick search of the Internet brings up books, YouTube videos and much more with tips and tricks for public presentations. If you need inspiration on how to write a speech, American Rhetoric Top 100 Speeches of All Time features some of the most well known speeches of the past century by former presidents, civil rights leaders and more.

A few public speaking no-no's:

1. Stiff and unnatural body language
2. Reading the speech, or the PowerPoint slides, verbatim. There's nothing more boring than the speaker reading the entire presentation word for word.
3. Not making eye contact with audience members.
4. Memorizing the speech so that it feels rehearsed.
5. Low energy. Speaking in a monotone voice, standing (or worse, sitting!) in a single spot, and no facial expressions will send your audience to sleep!

In other words, be relatable, speak clearly and loudly, and look at your audience, picking up on their nonverbal cues to adjust your talk as needed. Most experts agree that the most important trait for successful public speaking is to be authentic. Confidence will take you far in the public speaking game: Never let 'em see you sweat!

We wish you much luck and success as you take the fast track to career success by learning one very important skill: Public Speaking!