Master Agent Featured Articles

The master agent industry is crucial in selling telecommunications services on behalf of service carriers as well as managing partners or subagents who sell these carriers’ products. However, as new technology solutions are introduced to the market including VoIP and SIP trunking, it is key that master agents learn all there is to know about these new communication tools.

In a recent blog post, David Byrd (News - Alert) from Broadvox said, “Too often we encounter a situation where an agent sells a SIP Trunk with no understanding of the difference between it and a PRI. This can lead to a disastrous situation. First, an agent needs to understand that the bandwidth require per phone call is more with G.711 not less than a PRI. Second, IP enabled equipment is required. This can be an IAD, IP PBX (News - Alert) or, in the best case, the addition of an IP board or card. It is also very important to check the carrier’s interoperability IAD and IP PBX list.”

TMCnet added that Inter-Op and codecs are extremely important elements that Agents and VAR's need to know. Luckily, there are multiple places where Agents and VARs can receive the training needed to learn all there is to know about these innovative technologies including: Alteva’s  cert program, which costs about $350 and includes sales and product training; MegaPath (News - Alert) ‘s MPLS University; and Avaya’s SIP for Dummies book.

In addition, a majority of carriers provide training for their products, as communication solutions are ever-changing. Even though training webinars can take up a good chunk of time, it is critical that master agents take part in as many as possible to gain a competitive edge.

To ensure that they have the knowledge needed to succeed, agents and VAR's have the option to complete TCA's Certified Telecom Professional certification program which will analyze their skill set and show them what they still may need to learn.

With a vast array of knowledge in evolving technologies, master agents and VARs alike will be able to drive revenues and provide a much more satisfied customer experience.