Hire a Virtual Assistant - New Era OS - Blog

“The Future of Work”

by Blog PostsNewsVirtual Assistants

How Virtual Assistants are Changing the Business Landscape

The world of work is evolving rapidly, and businesses are constantly seeking innovative solutions to stay competitive. One such solution that is revolutionizing the business landscape is the rise of virtual assistants. These digital professionals provide remote administrative, technical, and creative support to businesses across various industries. In this blog post, we will delve into the future of work, explore how virtual assistants are reshaping the business landscape, and discuss the benefits they offer to companies. Whether you are a small startup or a large corporation, understanding the impact of virtual assistants can help you adapt to the changing dynamics of the business world.

1: The Changing Dynamics of Work

The future of work is being shaped by numerous factors, including advancements in technology, changing work preferences, and the need for increased flexibility. Virtual assistants have emerged as a response to these evolving trends, offering businesses the opportunity to tap into a global talent pool without the limitations of physical proximity. This remote workforce model has gained traction in recent years, enabling companies to access specialized skills and expertise from anywhere in the world.

2: The Role of Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants play a crucial role in streamlining business operations. From managing administrative tasks to providing customer support, they can handle a wide range of responsibilities. Whether it’s scheduling appointments, organizing data, or maintaining an online presence, virtual assistants offer businesses the freedom to focus on core activities while delegating time-consuming and repetitive tasks. This not only enhances efficiency but also frees up valuable time for business owners and employees to concentrate on strategic initiatives.

3: Advantages of Virtual Assistants

3.1 Access to Global Talent

Virtual assistants bring a diverse range of skills and experience to the table. With the ability to hire talent from different countries and backgrounds, businesses can access specialized expertise that may not be readily available locally. Whether it’s content creation, social media management, or graphic design, virtual assistants can provide high-quality support tailored to your business needs.

3.2 Cost-Effective Solution

Hiring a virtual assistant can be a cost-effective solution compared to hiring full-time employees. Businesses can save on expenses such as benefits, office space, and equipment, as virtual assistants typically work remotely. Additionally, virtual assistants often charge on an hourly or project basis, allowing for greater flexibility and control over budget allocation.

3.3 Increased Flexibility

Virtual assistants offer unparalleled flexibility in terms of work hours and availability. This is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in different time zones or requiring support during non-traditional working hours. Virtual assistants can adapt their schedules to meet the demands of your business, ensuring continuous support and seamless operations.

4: Real-Life Examples

To illustrate the impact of virtual assistants, let’s look at two real-life examples:

4.1 Startup Support

A tech startup is launching an innovative mobile app but lacks the resources to handle customer inquiries and technical support. By hiring a virtual assistant with experience in customer service and technical troubleshooting, the startup can ensure prompt responses to user queries, enhance user satisfaction, and focus on refining their product.

4.2 E-commerce Expansion

An online retailer experiences rapid growth and decides to expand its product catalog. However, managing inventory, product descriptions, and online listings become overwhelming for the small team. By employing a virtual assistant skilled in e-commerce operations, the retailer can efficiently handle inventory management, update product information, and improve the overall shopping experience for customers.

Conclusion

The future of work is undoubtedly being shaped by virtual assistants, providing businesses with a dynamic and flexible workforce. As technology continues to advance and the business landscape evolves, harnessing the power of virtual assistants can give your company a competitive edge. Whether you need assistance with administrative tasks, creative projects, or customer support, virtual assistants offer a cost-effective and efficient solution. Embrace the changing dynamics of work and explore the possibilities that virtual assistants

open up for your business. To take advantage of this transformative trend, consider partnering with New Era OS, a leading provider of dedicated virtual assistants. Our pre-vetted assistants come from diverse fields and backgrounds, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your business needs.

By choosing New Era OS, you gain access to a pool of highly skilled virtual assistants who can streamline your business operations and help you achieve your goals. Our assistants are experienced in various areas, including administrative tasks, social media management, content creation, customer support, and more. We understand that every business is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your specific requirements.

When you hire a virtual assistant from New Era OS, you not only save time and money but also benefit from a dedicated professional who can seamlessly integrate into your team. Our virtual assistants work remotely, providing the flexibility and adaptability required in today’s fast-paced business environment. They communicate effectively, ensuring that you stay connected and informed throughout the collaboration.

The process of partnering with New Era OS is simple and straightforward. After discussing your business needs and preferences, we carefully match you with a virtual assistant who possesses the necessary skills and experience. We handle the onboarding process, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing any disruptions to your workflow. With our expertise in managing virtual assistants, you can focus on what you do best – growing your business.

In conclusion, the future of work is being shaped by virtual assistants, and embracing this trend can propel your business forward. The advantages of hiring a virtual assistant, such as access to global talent, cost-effectiveness, and increased flexibility, are undeniable. By partnering with New Era OS, you gain a trusted partner who can provide you with a dedicated virtual assistant tailored to your specific needs.

Future of work- New Era OS Robot - BlogTake the leap into the future of work by exploring the possibilities of virtual assistants. Visit our website at neweraos.com to learn more about our services and how we can assist your business. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover the transformative power of virtual assistants. Together, let’s shape the future of your business and unlock new levels of success.

Hire a Virtual Assistant - New Era OS - Blog

The Power of Automation

by Blog PostsNewsVirtual Assistants

How to Streamline Your Business Processes

Automation has become an essential tool in modern businesses. With so many repetitive tasks and processes to handle, it is almost impossible to keep up without it. Automation tools can streamline business operations, eliminate errors, and free up time for more important tasks. In this blog, we will explore the power of automation, the benefits it can bring to your business, and how to implement it effectively.

What is Automation?

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks that would otherwise be done manually. This can include anything from data entry to inventory management to customer support. Automation tools use software, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to complete tasks quickly and efficiently. By automating these processes, businesses can save time, reduce errors, and increase productivity.

The Benefits of Automation

Increased Efficiency and Productivity

One of the most significant benefits of automation is increased efficiency and productivity. Automation tools can complete tasks faster and more accurately than humans, which means businesses can complete more work in less time. This can free up staff to focus on more important tasks, such as strategy and innovation, leading to increased productivity and growth.

Improved Accuracy and Quality

Automation can also improve the accuracy and quality of work. With machines performing repetitive tasks, the likelihood of human error is greatly reduced. This leads to higher-quality work, fewer mistakes, and a better overall customer experience.

Cost Savings

By automating tasks, businesses can reduce costs associated with labor, as well as the cost of errors and mistakes. This can result in significant savings over time, which can be reinvested in the business to fuel growth and innovation.

Better Data Management and Analysis

Automation tools can help businesses manage and analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately. This can lead to more informed decision-making, better insights, and a more competitive edge.

Improved Customer Service

Automation tools can also improve customer service by providing faster response times, more accurate information, and better communication. This can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Implementing Automation

Implementing automation in your business requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips to get started:

  1. Identify Repetitive Tasks: Identify tasks that are repetitive and time-consuming, such as data entry, email marketing, or social media management.
  2. Research Automation Tools: Research and identify automation tools that can help you complete these tasks more efficiently. There are many tools available, so choose one that fits your business needs and budget.
  3. Implement Automation Gradually: Implement automation gradually to ensure that it is working effectively and not causing any disruptions in your business operations.
  4. Train Your Team: Train your team on how to use the automation tools effectively to ensure that they are using them to their full potential.
  5. Monitor and Evaluate: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of your automation tools regularly to ensure that they are working as intended and providing the expected benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, automation can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to streamline their processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity. By automating repetitive tasks, businesses can free up staff to focus on more important tasks and provide a better overall customer experience. If you are looking to implement automation in your business, be sure to identify repetitive tasks, research automation tools, implement gradually, train your team, and monitor and evaluate regularly.

The Power of Automation: How to Streamline Your Business Processes - New Era OS Robot - BlogAt New Era OS, we specialize in providing dedicated virtual assistants who can help you implement automation in your business. Our pre-vetted assistants come from various fields and can provide tailored support and training to help you streamline your business operations. With a dedicated virtual assistant from New Era OS, you can enjoy the benefits of automation while saving time and money. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you grow your business.

Sustainability: A Holistic Approach to Corporate Social Responsibility

Sustainability: A Holistic Approach to Corporate Social Responsibility

by with No Comment Blog PostsNews

Sustainability has become a buzzword in the business world, but it’s much more than just a trend. At its core, sustainability is about taking a holistic approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR), considering the environmental, social, and economic impact of business decisions. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce their carbon footprint, minimize waste, and promote social justice, all while improving their bottom line.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the PSST framework of sustainability, which stands for People, Society, and Environment, and Profit, and how it can be applied to various aspects of business operations, including green energy and green products.

People: The Importance of Social Responsibility

The first pillar of sustainability is People, which emphasizes the importance of social responsibility. This means taking into account the needs and well-being of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and communities.

One way companies can demonstrate social responsibility is by investing in their employees. This can include providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for training and professional development. By treating employees well, companies can improve morale, reduce turnover, and attract top talent.

Another aspect of social responsibility is community engagement. This can involve supporting local nonprofits, sponsoring community events, or partnering with local businesses. By giving back to the community, companies can build goodwill and establish themselves as a responsible corporate citizen.

Society: Green Energy and the Bottom Line

The second pillar of sustainability is Society, which focuses on the impact of business operations on society as a whole. One of the key ways companies can promote sustainability is by adopting green energy practices.

Green energy refers to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, which produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions. By transitioning to green energy, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Adopting green energy practices can also have financial benefits. For example, investing in solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings on electricity costs. Additionally, some governments offer tax incentives or rebates for companies that invest in renewable energy.

Environment: The Importance of Green Products

The third pillar of sustainability is Environment, which focuses on reducing the environmental impact of business operations. One way companies can achieve this is by offering green products.

Green products are those that are designed to have a minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal. This can include products made from sustainable materials, products that are energy-efficient, or products that are recyclable or biodegradable.

Offering green products can have a range of benefits for companies. For one, it can help them meet consumer demand for sustainable products, which can lead to increased sales and brand loyalty. Additionally, it can help companies reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact, which can improve their reputation and attract socially conscious customers.

Profit: The Business Case for Sustainability

The final pillar of sustainability is Profit, which emphasizes the importance of financial viability. Some companies may be hesitant to adopt sustainable practices, fearing that they will be too expensive or will not generate a sufficient return on investment (ROI).

However, there is a strong business case for sustainability. For one, sustainable practices can lead to cost savings. For example, investing in energy-efficient equipment or reducing waste can lead to lower operating costs. Additionally, adopting sustainable practices can help companies attract socially conscious customers and investors, who may be willing to pay a premium for sustainable products or support companies with strong CSR policies.

Furthermore, companies that embrace sustainability can enjoy a range of other benefits, including improved reputation, increased employee morale and productivity, and reduced risk of regulatory fines or reputational damage. In short, sustainability can help businesses not only do good but also do well.

How New Era OS Can Help

At New Era OS, we believe in the power of sustainability to create positive change for businesses and society as a whole. We offer a range of virtual assistant services that can help companies adopt sustainable practices and improve their CSR policies.

For example, our virtual assistants can help companies transition to green energy by researching renewable energy options, identifying tax incentives and rebates, and managing the installation process. We can also help companies source sustainable materials and products, develop recycling and waste reduction programs, and implement green business practices.

In addition to promoting sustainability, our virtual assistant services can help companies reduce costs, increase productivity, and improve their bottom line. By outsourcing administrative tasks to our pre-vetted assistants, companies can save time and resources, allowing them to focus on core business activities and growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sustainability is not just a buzzword but a crucial component of corporate social responsibility. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce their environmental impact, promote social justice, and improve their bottom line. The PSST framework of sustainability, which focuses on People, Society, Environment, and Profit, provides a comprehensive approach to addressing sustainability in all aspects of business operations.

At New Era OS, we offer virtual assistant services that can help companies adopt sustainable practices and improve their CSR policies, all while reducing costs and improving productivity. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business unlock its full potential through sustainability.

The Rise of Remote Work and Virtual Assistants: How New Era OS is Leading the Way

by with No Comment Blog PostsNewsVirtual Assistants

Remote work and virtual assistants are revolutionising the way businesses operate, and it is only a matter of time before they become the norm. Remote work, where employees are able to work from any location outside of their usual workplace, offers greater flexibility and autonomy to employees and has been made possible through advancements in communication and collaboration technology. Virtual assistants, on the other hand, are software programs that utilize artificial intelligence and natural language processing to perform tasks and answer questions, providing businesses with a tool to automate routine tasks, free up time, and improve customer satisfaction.


The benefits of embracing remote work and virtual assistants are numerous. Remote work can reduce overhead costs for businesses, as there is no need for a physical office space or equipment for remote employees. It also opens up access to a larger pool of talent, as businesses are no longer restricted to hiring employees in a specific location. Additionally, remote work can increase employee productivity, as employees are able to work in environments that suit them best and are not tied to a specific location.


Virtual assistants, on the other hand, offer businesses the opportunity to automate routine tasks, freeing up time and resources that can be redirected to other areas of the business. This can result in increased efficiency and productivity, and virtual assistants can also provide customers with 24/7 support, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.


In the rapidly changing business world, embracing remote work and virtual assistants can provide businesses with a competitive edge. Companies that are able to adapt to new technologies and ways of working are more likely to remain competitive in an ever-changing market. Furthermore, remote work and virtual assistants offer businesses greater flexibility and responsiveness, allowing them to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs.


This is where New Era OS comes into play. Our platform integrates remote work and virtual assistants, allowing businesses to take full advantage of the benefits that these technologies have to offer. With New Era OS, businesses can increase their efficiency, reduce their costs, and enhance their competitiveness, all while delivering a better experience for their employees and customers. In this new era of business, New Era OS is the key to success.

Say Goodbye to Time-Consuming Recruitment and Hello to a Smarter Way of Outsourcing with New Era OS

by with No Comment Blog PostsNewsTips & HacksVirtual Assistants

Are you tired of spending countless hours sifting through resumes and interviewing potential employees just to end up with someone who doesn’t quite fit the bill? 

Well, it’s time to bid farewell to that frustrating process and say hello to a smarter way of outsourcing – with New Era OS.
New Era OS is a one-stop-shop for all your outsourcing needs, providing you with pre-vetted virtual assistants who are ready to tackle your workload and take your business to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a remote worker to help with your daily tasks or a team to work from our modern offices, New Era OS has got you covered.

With our monthly fee system, you no longer have to worry about the hassle of recruiting, training, and managing employees. We take care of everything, from the equipment to the day-to-day management, freeing up your time so that you can focus on what you do best – running your business.

And the best part? Our virtual assistants are not only highly qualified, but they are also affordable. Outsourcing with New Era OS is a cost-effective solution that allows you to save money on employee benefits, training, and other expenses. Plus, with our long-term and short-term options, you can choose the solution that works best for your business.

So why choose New Era OS over other outsourcing companies? It’s simple – we are the new era of outsourcing. Our virtual assistants are handpicked and trained to provide the highest level of service and support, ensuring that your business always runs smoothly. Our offices are equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure, providing a modern and productive working environment for your team.
At New Era OS, we understand that outsourcing can be a daunting prospect, which is why we make it easy and stress-free. Our team is always on hand to support you and ensure that your outsourcing experience is a positive one.

In today’s fast-paced world, outsourcing is no longer just a luxury but a necessity. By partnering with New Era OS, you’ll be able to take your business to the next level, free up your time, and focus on what you do best. So, what are you waiting for? Get started with New Era OS today and experience a smarter way of outsourcing.
Visit our website at neweraos.com to learn more about our services and how we can help take your business to the next level. Trust us, once you outsource with New Era OS, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without us!

Taxi, Technology & Outsourcing

by with 2 Comments Blog PostsCustomer ServiceNews

Taxi, Technology & Outsourcing

By Ejaz Shah  —  25th November 2020

Reminiscing about the old taxi offices

“One second King, Sierra pick up from 254 VPR let me know the destination, King head towards CT”

I remember sitting in the taxi booking office, yellow walls and a cloud of cigarette smoke hovering above the desk, phone receiver resting on the shoulder as the main dispatcher spoke to the drivers on the old two-way radio system. Two operators were busy on the phones scribbling the jobs down on a sheet of paper, all 3 of them had a cigarette in their mouth and they were all stressed. I didn’t understand what the dispatcher meant when he spoke to the drivers in short code but he was managing a fleet of over 50 cars and I marvelled at how even though they were all stressed out, they still managed to have a laugh.

King and Sierra were both drivers and Sierra was told to head to 254 Victoria Park Road to pick up and King being directed toward the Clock Tower, I know all the shortcodes now but back then, putting in an 8/10-hour shift was like hard labour, you were mentally and physically drained.

Years later,  I found myself working as a taxi driver and studying in Stafford.  It was the best job you could do while studying as you could pick the hours you did working for the largest company there. Here the driver code names were changed into numbers to make it easier and I remember this one time a driver came through on the radio..

Driver: “Car 84 hat in bush”

Dispatcher: “Car 84 come again”

Driver: “Car 84 hat in bush”

Dispatcher: “Car 84 I don’t understand”

Driver: “Car 84, Hat in bush, head in hat”

I nearly choked on my tea as the office burst into roars of laughter

Dispatcher: “Car 84 are you ok bud”

Driver; “Car 84 on my way back to the office need a break, I am ok”

Dispatcher; “Roger bud”

Now a driver had been assaulted but the way he reported it back had us all in tears. Car 84 could look after himself but if you picture the incident, he had to drag himself back to the car and report it, there was no mobile phones back then.

Taxi and Technology

This has all changed now, you might find the odd small company still using the old two-way radio system but nearly everyone has moved to computerised dispatching systems. The taxi industry has come a long way from where it used to be and there was a massive surge of drivers joining the trade once outsourcing became the new way of business for many leading industries who chose to move their business overseas. Back then you would struggle to find a company with over 500 cars, which is now the norm, the standard as you will find a lot of small companies are now merged into one large company.

Back around 1995 I was introduced to a family friend Ali, a computer geek, who would go around taxi offices and sell them an Excel spreadsheet that he had made. The idea was to get rid of all the paperwork and make sure everything was categorically organised and while he was rejected by quite a few companies, he did manage to sell quite a few too.

This wasn’t an original idea of Ali’s, he had seen a proper dispatch system doing it’s rounds and had mimicked it, not as advanced as the proper dispatch system but the concept was the same and you had to marvel at Ali’s hustle.

That then was the tip of the iceberg, for the taxi companies that refused Ali back then are now using a dispatch system.

Bookings are now taken on a computer, stored on a computer, dispatched to the driver via the computer to the driver’s mobile and the driver’s job history is stored on the computer. This automation of the taxi booking office allows taxi companies to now take more bookings whereas, in the past, they would refuse them when the sheet was full.

I would be lying if I said the assaults on taxi drivers had now calmed down with the introduction of technology – it hasn’t, however, offices are now able to track the location of their drivers and all drivers have an emergency button on the screen, once pressed it alerts the office and every single driver on shift so help does get their quicker than it used to!

Life for the back office has become a lot easier with an easily accessible record of all the jobs done. Accounts at the end of the month or even week are a lot easier to arrange, whereas before you would have to go through the whole paperwork just to find who did what job on a certain day.

Taxi, Technology and Outsourcing

Even though taxi and technology have been working hand in hand since the 90’s, outsourcing did not come into the picture until after 2010. Allthough outsourcing has been in the market since around the 80’s the taxi trade was very late to jump onto the bandwagon.

Even while I type this blog there are quite a few taxi companies that still treat outsourcing as an alien concept and something they refuse to indulge in, it reminds me of the times I would go around with Ali trying to sell his Excel Spreadsheet to various offices.

Similar to how technology helped the taxi industry move onto the next stage of transportation, outsourcing is also just that, a helping hand.

Majority of the large taxi firms are outsourcing either just the overflow of calls or having outsourced staff handling every aspect of the booking. It is not only more convenient for taxi companies to outsource, it is also a big money saver. If you have recently seen a local taxi company rapidly growing and advertising heavily, chances are they are outsourcing!

All three do work hand in hand though, without the combination of taxi and technology, outsourcing would not be possible, because of technology it is now possible to have a remote worker on the other side of the world answering calls and booking in jobs as well as dispatching!!!

So, what can be outsourced?

Putting it simply, every repetitive task can be outsourced, below I will list a few for a basic taxi office;

  • Operator/Dispatcher
    • From answering the call and taking a simple booking to recovering a job, modifying it and re-dispatching it back to the same driver.
    • Taking account bookings
  • Online bookings
    • Bookings from your website to bookings done on social media
  • Customer Service
    • Customer complaints through emails
    • Customer complaints through social media channels
    • Customer complaints over the phone
  • Bookkeeping
    • Driver accounts including driver base rents and refunds, vehicle MOT’s and driver licensing
    • Weekly staff wages
    • Promotions, advertising and software fee’s
    • Account job’s

By outsourcing the above listed jobs, a taxi company could save around 70% on wages, this money can then be put back into and invested in the company and its future growth.

Me and New Era OS

Having gone through manual taxi dispatching to computerised dispatching systems with call centre experience from the UK not to mention first-hand taxi driving experience I created New Era OS to help taxi companies grow to their full potential and reach heights which they once thought impossible. At New Era OS we can easily handle all the above tasks in a professional manner that the customer would never guess they were speaking to someone some 4000 miles away.

If you have had a bad experience with an oversea call centre or outsourcing is something you have never tried before, get in touch today and take advantage of the no setup fee with your first agent. We are so confident in what we do we do not ask for anything upfront, you really do not have anything to lose!! 

New Era CEO Ejaz Shah

What is Outsourcing?

by with No Comment Blog PostsCustomer ServiceNews

What is Outsourcing?

By Ejaz Shah  —  21st October 2020

What is Outsourcing?

In simple terms outsourcing is when a company hires a third party to perform certain tasks. We have seen examples of this in the banking trade, where several large companies have transferred their Customer Services departments overseas to an outsourcing company.  These tasks which would have been conducted inhouse, would then be performed by the third party.

A company can decide to outsource any part of their business. The most common are the repetitive tasks such as call taking or admin work, however, you can have outsourcing companies that provide full HR departments, web development and lone worker support.

New Era OS is one of these companies, we can undertake almost any task, please take a look around our website for more details.

Why do companies Outsource?

Majority of the time companies outsource to save money, however there are many other reasons too. Outsourcing a repetitive task enables a company to concentrate on more important issues whilst ensuring their core values and high standards are maintained. Space saving is another reason, you can have a team of 20 plus agents answering your phones, but your office does not need to be extended to house them as it is all outsourced. Finally, sometimes it is better to let a company who specialises in that certain field to deal with that certain task, that way you know you have professionals and experts in that field handling your work.

How does Outsourcing work?

If done correctly and with the right outsourcing company, outsourcing can work very smoothly. Whole departments could be based overseas, however, the efficient communication can make it seem like the department is still inhouse. To get it up and running is very simple:

How does Outsourcing work?

If done correctly and with the right outsourcing company, outsourcing can work very smoothly. Whole departments could be based overseas, however, the efficient communication can make it seem like the department is still inhouse. To get it up and running is very simple:

  1. Both companies liaise to discuss what sections of the business need to be outsourced and what the requirements and specifications are.
  2. The outsourcing firm, equipped with the specifications and requirements, will then train their staff up to the required standard.
  3. At the arranged takeover date, the outsourcing company will take over their delegated tasks, and continue to carry them out for the agreed period.
  4. Most firms bill monthly with some having contracted terms stipulating payment-up-front terms.

At New Era OS we are perfectionists, we have a strict policy of only taking on a new client on either a Monday or a Tuesday at the latest, for our onboarding department needs a week to collate all the requirements from the new client and relay the information to our training department. The training package for the operator is then tailored around these requirements, ensuring the operator and New Era as a whole, are delivering everything that the client requires of them.

What’s the catch?

There isn’t one.

The benefits of outsourcing are endless. Cost-saving, timesaving, space-saving, are just a few of the key benefits of outsourcing. However, it is imperative to find the right outsourcing company, the best way to do this is to take the time to get to know the individuals behind the company. With the right company behind you, you can take your business from just surviving to expanding.

There isn’t one.

The benefits of outsourcing are endless. Cost-saving, timesaving, space-saving, are just a few of the key benefits of outsourcing. However, it is imperative to find the right outsourcing company, the best way to do this is to take the time to get to know the individuals behind the company. With the right company behind you, you can take your business from just surviving to expanding.

At New Era OS, I personally take time out to meet/discuss matters with any new company we are taking onboard. Building strong, longstanding, relationships is very important to me. If there are any further questions you have, or you just want to discuss Outsourcing further with me, get in touch and I will personally take the time out to go through matters with you.

New Era ~ A New Approach

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New Era

A New Approach

By Ejaz Shah  —   7th October 2020

For those of you that have read my previous blogs, I hope the one thing that you have picked up on, is my passion about my job. I am not simply passionate about making money or having my own business – I would be lying if I said these factors didn’t play a part, of course they do, however, I am passionate about everything to do with my job.

I write this blog knowing that some points might seem controversial, this is not my intention. It is important for me to be clear and open with everyone and that is exactly what I want to do here. I want to share with you my vision and the outlook for my business. The points I make here are purely based on my experiences and I am fully aware there are limitations to this, therefore these are not generalisations I make but purely statements on what I have experienced and what I hope to achieve in the future. 

The dream from day one was to start a business that was different to others. Different specifically in it’s approach.

Now see I have many years experience in this field, right from front end to back end duties. I have worked alongside many different characters from many different walks of life and from each and everyone I have taken something. Collectively these learnings are what I have implemented in my business.

When I first entered this industry in Pakistan it was a huge shock to my system and unfortunately not in a good way. I had been fortunate to have worked in businesses in the UK where I really relished going into work and giving my all, as did all those around me. I specifically recall fond memories from my time at a national company call centre in the UK, where majority of the staff had been employed for five plus years, they loved their jobs and were so dedicated to what they did. I know it sounds cheesy, but the company really had a family feel to it. Everyone was keen to play their part in the success of the business and were rewarded – rightly so – for their efforts.

New Era moto

My introduction to call centre life in Pakistan was somewhat different. Therefore, when the opportunity came, I knew I had the experience, the knowledge and the desire, to make a change, to build a business with a ‘feel good’ factor to it, similar to what I had experienced back in the UK. I envisioned a place where I could offer employees a place where they were valued, a place where they were appreciated and the opportunity to grow. At the same time, I wanted to be absolutely dedicated to my clients, working with them, for them and for their customers. That very idea is where the moto of New Era came about. New Era OS, working with you, for you, for your customer!

So how have I gone about this and what does New Era have to offer:

Employees

There is no single person that makes New Era. It is a collective effort by every single member of staff, irrelevant of your title or your salary and this includes me. I alone cannot make New Era a success, the success of New Era is in the hands of the entire team.

I recall one thing that I couldn’t get my head around when I first came to be working in Pakistan was how staff were treated depending on their ‘level’. Simply put if you were not one of the big bosses, the senior employees, the one with flashy job titles, you were not treated with respect. I fundamentally disagree with this notion.

I remember pulling in the cleaning team one day into my office and telling them that they were employees of this organisation, the same as everyone else and they had a designated – important – job role, no one had the ‘right’ to give them extra duties apart from their line manager. When I say the right I mean they were being used to run personal errands, heat food for staff ‘higher up’, wash their lunch dishes, they were treated as personal ‘butlers’, though the term butler comes with more respect then was ever bestowed upon them. Heartbreakingly, these individuals did not feel they could say no, so they did everything that was required of them by the business, doing their own jobs as well as running around doing personal chores for those that viewed themselves as more ‘important’.

This quite frankly ‘toxic’ mind frame filtered down the business and employee chain, with each member of staff looking down on those they considered to be more inferior to them. Now let me be clear, this wasn’t everyone, there were those that played no part in this. But this mentality was never challenged, it was deemed okay, I learnt this first-hand myself, as my intervention with the cleaning team did not go down well with the management team, apparently this is the way things are done here.

Well no, not in New Era. Right from the offset the approach we take is to ensure satisfaction and satisfaction goes hand in hand with success.

At New Era a waiting list is used to select candidates for interviews based on their capabilities. This is a new era of call centre work, so once part of the New Era family, employees have the chance to grow and advance in their career and be rewarded along the way. We got rid of the hourly pay that is common here in call centres and put our staff on fixed wages with paid holidays. Overtime is paid as overtime and wages are in the bank by the end of the month. We want our staff to want to come into work and feel valued. We know how important these benefits and bonuses are to our staff.

Clients

A thing I noticed very early on here in Pakistan was that the owners of a lot of the call centres here are overseas citizens with a business in the west and the setup here in Pakistan to purely support their venture in the west. This divided interest, or in some cases, lack of interest to the business in Pakistan, is reflected in the way businesses are ran.

With New Era there is no divided or lack of attention. I am 100% dedicated to New Era, my time is completely dedicated to our clients without having to worry about my own business in the UK.

Again, with clients too, we use a waiting list, and to those currently on the waiting list,we ask for patience. We are perfectionists, we have a strict policy of only taking on a new client on either a Monday or a Tuesday at the latest, for our onboarding department needs a week to collate all the requirements from the new client and relay the information to our training department. The training package for the operator is then tailored around these requirements, ensuring the operator and New Era as a whole, are delivering everything that the client requires of them. Each client has a dedicated member of staff to address any issues or queries and we only move onto onboarding the next client, once both the current client and the New Era team are completely satisfied that the onboarding process has been a success. We are our biggest critics. We believe everything should be done precisely from inception and then this very perfection should be maintained throughout. This is our only project, New Era. We are not side-tracked by any other investments; our focus is to build this into a brand that can be trusted by clients worldwide and give security to our work force. I know there are many of you out there that share my vision, I have had the privilege of meeting many of you in person. Let’s work together to build the infrastructure that provides equal and fair opportunities to all and enables the many to reap the success of their dedication and hard work. Once again, please comment below and share your thoughts and stories and pop over to our main page to learn more about New Era

Imposters Syndrome

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Imposters Syndrome

By Ejaz Shah  —  22nd September 2020

Have you ever felt anxious that you are not good enough? Felt like a fraud? That regardless of all the certificates decorating your walls, the trophies lining your cabinets, the accolades behind your name, you know nothing, and that sooner or later you will be exposed? Well you’re not the only one.

David Bowie, Maya Angelou, Tom Hanks, all leading figures in their industries, have felt the same:

“I really felt so utterly inadequate” – David Bowie

“I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out” – Maya Angelou

“How did I get here? When are they going to discover that I am, in fact, a fraud and take everything away from me?” – Tom Hanks

At some point in their celebrated careers, each one of them has/had suffered from ‘imposters syndrome’.

Imposters syndrome is the feeling of constantly doubting yourself, your talents, your abilities and living with the fear that you will be exposed as a ‘fraud’, regardless of your accomplishments. The phenomenon was introduced by psychologists Dr. Pauline R. Clance and Dr. Suzanne A. Imes back in 1978 and I’ve attached a link for you to read up more about this phenomenon if you wish to do so.

Why, when we have the skills, the expertise, the know-how, do we feel this way?!

Me, the Imposter and I

I remember anxiously waiting for my turn in a room full of interviewees as I watched hopeful candidates walk out of the interview room with a long face. I had been working at this well-known call centre for a couple of years and was now going for a more senior role. I knew everything I needed for this new role, because I had been temporarily covering the position for the last six months. But still, deep inside the knots were tightening as each moment passed. By the time I entered the interview room I was 100% confident that they would blow my cover, call out my bluff for what it was. A fluke. I was a phoney, a fake and that by sheer ‘luck’ I had managed to succeed in my roles.

This couldn’t have been more further than the truth. I was good at my job, because I had the expertise, the knowledge and the talent, which combined ensured I succeeded. I couldn’t see this at the time, however – thankfully – the interviewers did, and I got the job.

It wasn’t the first or the last time I felt this feeling of being an imposter in my own success. I recall years later, feeling the same, when I was working as a taxi dispatcher. The firm was going through a tough busy period and I was managing dispatching to a fleet of 100 plus cars. As the most busiest week of the season came upon us, I recall the voice in my head telling me, ‘this is it…you are about to be found out for what you are’, I felt awful, the doubt in my mind was eating away at me.

How do we deal with this? This feeling that most people will feel at some point in their lives/careers and some will constantly be battling it. The first step is crucial.

First Step: TALK

Talk, talk, talk talk! Communicate your feelings. I cannot express how important this is. If you keep this feeling to yourself, it will eat away at you, like it did to me. In my case I turned to my sister, who I have continuously relied on for advice and support. A recent graduate in psychology, she introduced me to the term imposter syndrome. At that time when I was questioning my worth, she was able to talk to me about my many talents, highlight my skills and show me my worth. It is hugely important that you are able to turn the negative thinking into positives, and whilst you nit-pick at all your faults, it is those that surround you that will be able to remind you of your many achievements and successes. Turn to your colleagues, your managers, your mentors, so that they can guide you back onto your path.

Talk, talk, talk talk! Communicate your feelings. I cannot express how important this is. If you keep this feeling to yourself, it will eat away at you, like it did to me. In my case I turned to my sister, who I have continuously relied on for advice and support. A recent graduate in psychology, she introduced me to the term imposter syndrome. At that time when I was questioning my worth, she was able to talk to me about my many talents, highlight my skills and show me my worth.

It is hugely important that you are able to turn the negative thinking into positives, and whilst you nit-pick at all your faults, it is those that surround you that will be able to remind you of your many achievements and successes. Turn to your colleagues, your managers, your mentors, so that they can guide you back onto your path.

Second Step: BELIEF

Believe in yourself. You have come so far, you CAN continue on the same path and fulfil your ambitions. Take the positives that have been highlighted to you by those that you talk to and keep them in mind. Focus all your energy on them and when they fully encompass you, there will be no stopping you. You need that belief in your abilities; and remember those around you see these abilities day in day out, believe what they say. Believe in yourself.

Third Step: CONFIDENCE

Ooze confidence. You’ve doubted yourself, you’ve talked to those around you about your doubts, they have shown you your worth. You have changed your negative thinking into positive, by believing in your talents. Now move forward in confidence. Be confident in your abilities, take pride in your achievements. Remember everyone around you at some point will have had these very feelings that you are experiencing. The people you look up to, the people you aspire to be like, they too have felt the way you are feeling. They expressed their feelings, grasped the positives and took giant strides in confidence – you too can do this!

And if all else fails. Crack open that giant tub of chocolate ice-cream (or whichever flavour takes your fancy), take the biggest spoon you own and make some heavy dents in that giant tub of deliciousness.

I joke – have the ice cream but in proportion and after you’ve taken the above mentioned three steps. You deserve a treat after all 😊

In all seriousness, we all could name at least one or two people in our lives that have doubted our ability, that will revel in our failures. So why do it to ourselves?! Let’s be our own cheerleaders. Recognise that these feelings can occur, this ‘imposters syndrome’ does exist, but we can battle through it and overcome it. Take those steps to rediscovering your worth and hold on to it tight!

I hope this blog has helped you if you are feeling this way. Comment below to share your experiences and your tips? Have you ever felt this way? How did you overcome it? What did you do? Please do share, I look forward to reading your comments.

Do you have the talent, the skills that we are looking for? If so, don’t hold back, we believe in your abilities and will support you to excel yourself further. Come, join the New Era family!

The Taxi Service

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The Taxi Service

By Ejaz Shah  —  7th September 2020

The name “taxi” is a shortened abbreviation of the word “taxicab” which was first documented in March of 1907 in London. Two words: “taximeter” and “cabriolet” are the origins of the word “taxicab”.  The word taximeter was invented in 1891, which was and is used to record distances and calculate the fare.  The word Cabriolet refers to a horse drawn carriage where the driver stands in the back of the carriage. But if you indulge further the name “taximeter” itself is derived from the Mid-Latin “taxa”, meaning “tax or charge”.

Recently I was reminiscing about old times and how far things have come since I was a child.

You’ve probably not heard of the good old Datsun; it was a car manufactured by Nissan and they phased the range out in 1986. My father had it in the colour brown, an unexciting, unalluring, nothing-special-about-it brown car but I loved it. I can still picture myself, glued to my window, nose pinned hard against it, waiting for my father to turn the corner into our street. My timing was always on point, the second I would see him turn in, I would race out of my bedroom, down my stairs, out the front door and on to the street. By the time my father pulled in outside our house, I would be waiting. He couldn’t – wouldn’t – refuse, and off we would go for our daily ‘rides’ in dad’s car. I loved every second of those rides.

My father went on to have many cars, after the Datsun, the other cars that had an impact on me, were my father’s taxis. My father’s first taxi was a black and white, C reg, Vauxhall Cavalier. Although the car was his pride and joy, he always dreamt of owning an ‘actual’ taxi, the famous London black cab. He worked hard and a few years later, he finally fulfilled that dream of owning his very own London Black cab – only he didn’t drive it in London, and it wasn’t black!! My father bought it in maroon and spent every spare second he had polishing it!! I really do believe it was his one true love (sorry mum!).

The taxi industry has come very far since my father’s days and so have the actual taxis. The other day when I had a few spare minutes I decided to plunge into the history of the taxi and see how it has developed over the years. I find these evolution stories fascinating and I share here with you some key points of the evolution of the taxi and its industry:

Brief Taxi History

The world’s first dedicated taxi was built by a Mr Gottlieb Daimler in 1897. It came equipped with the newly invented taxi meter and was named Damiler Victoria. In the same year, Mr Friedrich Greiner, an entrepreneur from Stuttgart, Germany, took the Damiler Victoria taxis and started the world’s first motorized taxi company.

Before this and even some years after this, horse-drawn carriages, or ‘horse cab drivers’ were still used across the world, from Paris to London and New York. However, by the end of the 19th century the new motorised taxis were taking over. 

The world’s first dedicated taxi was built by a Mr Gottlieb Daimler in 1897. It came equipped with the newly invented taxi meter and was named Damiler Victoria. In the same year, Mr Friedrich Greiner, an entrepreneur from Stuttgart, Germany, took the Damiler Victoria taxis and started the world’s first motorized taxi company.

Before this and even some years after this, horse-drawn carriages, or ‘horse cab drivers’ were still used across the world, from Paris to London and New York. However, by the end of the 19th century the new motorised taxis were taking over. 

In London, ‘Hummingbirds’ had taken over the roads. Walter Bersey, a British electrical engineer, had designed a fleet of electric battery-powered taxis which when driven, would make a humming noise, and so came the aptly given nickname.

Across the pond...

Developments were occurring in America too, where the New York taxicabs were initially imported from France. In time they were domestically manufactured, with the first domestically produced Taxicab built in 1908, designed by Fred E. Moskovics. Mr Moskovics went on to play a key part in organising the first Yellow Taxicab in New York and the famous yellow colour of the New York cab. You know that saying, ‘behind every successful man is a woman,’ well this definitely deserves a shout out. It was the wife of the owner of the manufacturing company that suggested the taxicabs be painted yellow so that they would stand out!

The popularity of taxis and their development intensified in the early 20th century. In the 1940s, two-way radios were introduced in taxis, so that taxi drivers and dispatchers could communicate. And in the 1980s, ‘computer assisted dispatching’ was first introduced. Yes the 1980s, but that’s a subject for another blog.

Taxis in Pakistan

But what about Pakistan, I hear you ask? Well in my research I found the earliest form of something similar to a taxi was the rickshaw. It was the Chinese that introduced it in India to transport goods initially and then from 1914, they were used to transport people. However, the rickshaw wasn’t how we know it today. Rickshaws were human drawn, can you imagine the sheer effort needed for that?! But they were hugely popular, especially as a job opportunity for the hundreds and thousands that were migrating from small villages to the big cities.

However, in the 1960s, these human drawn rickshaws were outlawed by the Pakistani government. By this time, they had already become less popular. The new auto rickshaws were all the rage. Nowadays, we have the ‘chand gari’ or ‘Chingchi/Chingchee’ motorcycle rickshaws and the Piaggo manufactured autorickshaws. All still hugely popular modes of transport used around Pakistan. Well used around most of Pakistan, it wasn’t until I moved to Islamabad that I was made aware of the fact – much to the disappointment of my daughters – that rickshaws are banned in this city!

Of course, there are numerous privately run services across Pakistan, consisting of cars and minibuses, majorly run by Uber! But in the larger cities yellow taxis are common, and similar to their contemporaries across the world, they are designed with a meter. 

How far we have come...

From my ‘personal childhood taxi’ – my father’s old Datsun, to his London Black Cab and to where we stand now with Uber….

It’s incredible to look back and see the development of such a hugely used mode of transport. I find that in life we get used to our day to day routine and get caught up in our daily plights that we don’t realise how far we have come, until we decide to take a moment out and reminisce about our past.

I hope you found the information I have provided above as interesting as I did. I’d love to hear from you and your stories of childhood, your first family car, the most unique form of ‘taxi’/transport you have used and do let me know of any key points from the history of taxis that I may have missed out. I am eager to hear and learn from you all, so please do comment below.

And if you would like to join an evolutionary business, that aims to thrive in its field – whilst sharing interesting facts and stories – go over to our main page for more information on NewEra and register your interest with us today. Welcome!