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CAM-X News


Annual CAM-X Convention to Color Outside the Lines (6/08)

The 44th CAM-X (Canadian Call Management Association) Annual Convention and Trade Show will be held at the beautiful Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario, just north of Toronto.  The event will run from September 23-26, 2008.  The theme for the convention is “Leadership: Color Outside the lines.”  It will provide the setting for a fun-filled, educational, networking opportunity, offering attendees the tools necessary to promote continuous growth of their businesses.

Founded in 1896, Deerhurst Resort (www.deerhurstresort.com) shares the landscape that inspired the Group of Seven, Canada’s best-known painters.  In the late 1980s the Deerhurst stage inspired another emerging artist, superstar Shania Twain.  Today, the resort that introduced championship golf to Muskoka stays ahead of the curve with Canada’s first ESPN Golf Schools and the Canadian National Pond Hockey Championships.

Muskoka (www.discovermuskoka.ca) is one of the most visited regions in Canada for corporate meetings, incentives, and retreats.  Fall in Muskoka is spectacular; the hiking trails are busy with activity, and the golf courses are in great shape.  

For more information, visit www.camx.ca, or contact Linda Osip, executive director, at 800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca.


2008 Call Center Coaching Clinics (4/08)

CAM-X, the Canadian Call Management Association, will hold their Call Center Coaching Clinics in Toronto, Ontario April 18-19, 2008 and in Calgary, Alberta May 2-3, 2008.  Following the theme “Year of the Leader” as set out by the board of directors this past November, the two-day seminar will reinforce the importance of the leadership role of supervisory personnel.

In 2007 CAM-X launched CSR and supervisor certification at the coaching clinics with tremendous success.  This year’s clinics will return to the more traditional style program, but will include breakout sessions on both days to accommodate delegates who wish to undergo CSR and supervisor certification. 

The schedule of events will include sessions covering: 

  • Performance Management: Setting objectives; learning objectives, tools, and strategies; employee competence and commitments; becoming proactive in managing performance; dealing with misconduct

  • Leadership from Within: By you and for you

  • The Leadership Revolution at Work: Building a strength-based leadership team

The Call Center Coaching Clinics are an ideal resource for supervisors, managers, and team leaders.  These sessions are available for both CAM-X members and nonmembers. 

For more information, contact Linda Osip, executive director at 800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca; you can also visit www.camx.ca.

CAM-X 2008 Coaching Clinics Planned (1/08)

The Canadian Call Management Association, CAM-X, will hold their Call Centre Coaching Clinics in Toronto, Ontario April 18-19, 2008 and in Calgary, Alberta May 2-3, 2008.  The two-day seminars will reinforce the importance of the leadership role of supervisory personnel.

In 2007, CAM-X launched CSR and supervisor certification at their coaching clinics with tremendous success.  This year’s clinics return to the more traditional style program; however, they will include breakout sessions on both days to accommodate delegates who wish to undergo CSR and supervisor certification. 

The schedule of events will include the following sessions: 

  • Performance management

  • Leadership from within

  • The leadership revolution at work

Networking opportunities will include the ever-popular roundtable discussions and an off-site evening to allow the delegates to relax and get to know one another in a more informal setting.  The Call Centre Coaching Clinics are an ideal resource for supervisors, managers, and team leads.  These two-day sessions are available for both CAM-X members and nonmembers. 

CAM-X (www.camx.ca) is a Canadian-based trade association for the call management industry.  For more information, contact Linda Osip, executive director, at 1-800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca.


CAM-X Surpasses $100,000 for Breast Cancer Research (12/07)

CAM-X raised over $21,000 for Breast Cancer research during the 43rd Annual Convention and Silent Auction held in St. John’s, NL on Oct 16-19, 2007.  This brings their four-year total to $103,000.

The silent auction for breast cancer research was such a success last year that it was decided to maintain the same format for this year’s annual convention and trade show.  It was also felt that because breast cancer is such a relevant and significant cause, efforts again should be targeted towards this charity.  The silent auction was held in conjunction with a Charity Casino night. 

This year, CAM-X challenged members to raise money for the cause within their own offices.  An amazing $5,644 was raised by the staff at Answer 1 of Phoenix, AZ, Northern Communication of Sudbury, ON, Telelink Call Centre of St. John’s, NL, and T.A.S. Communications of Belleville, ON. 

“CAM-X Members and Vendors continue to amaze us.  We have raised over $103,000 in support of this worthy cause.  Our members are generous and bighearted.” said CAM-X executive director Linda Osip.

For more information about CAM-X, go to www.camx.ca.  Visit the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation at www.cbcf.org.


Merrill Shulman and Don Swift Inducted into CAM-X Hall of Fame (12/07)

Congratulations go to Merrill Shulman and Don Swift on their inductions into the 2007 CAM-X Hall of Fame.  The presentations took place at the gala banquet held in conjunction with CAM-X’s 43rd Convention and Trade Show held recently in St. John’s, NL.

Merrill was nominated for this prestigious honor by Gary Pudles (AnswerNet Network – Willow Grove, PA), who also presented a brief biography and an inspiring tribute to the long-time industry leader.  Don Swift was nominated by Paul Lloyd (Answer Plus – Toronto) and Doug Swift (Tigertel/UTR – Mississauga).  Paul and Doug presented a touching overview of Don’s many accomplishments during his years in the industry.

The CAM-X Hall of Fame was established by the Canadian Call Management Association in 2001 in order to recognize dynamic individuals whose leadership has contributed to the evolution of the call center industry.

CAM-X (www.camx.ca) is a Canadian-based trade association for the call management industry.


Gary Blair and Nicole Linde Join CAM-X Board (11/07)

Gary Blair, president of Tele-Page of Montreal, QC and Nicole Linde of Intercon Messaging Inc. of Drayton Valley, AB, became directors on the board of the Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) at the 43rd Annual Convention in St. John’s, NL.

Gary made a career choice to join Tele-Page some thirty years ago and has worked in this privately held family business ever since.  In 2006 he took on his current role as president.  “I endorse CAM-X’s pivotal role in the continuing development of the industry and believe that a strong association creates stronger member companies,” said Blair.

Nicole has been employed by Intercon Messaging Inc. for seven years and currently supports the company and her clients remotely as a solutions leader.  This step towards what she believes is the future provides tangible results surrounding her vision of the industry.  Nicole envisions high achievements and large milestones for CAM-X through education, technology, increasing membership, and influence within the global and national community.

CAM-X (www.camx.ca) is a Canadian-based trade association for the call management industry which includes call centers, telephone answering services, voicemail services, telemarketing services, and other communication services.


CAM-X Convention Theme: “Lost and Found”  (10/07)

CAM-X Convention chair, Casey Smit announced that this year’s convention theme is “Lost and Found,” tying in with Newfoundland’s tourism promotions, which invites tourists to “lose yourself in the magic of this mysterious land.”  “This has also been declared ‘the year of the supervisor’ by our president Michael Leibowitz,” Smit stated.  “There will be a session on how to get your agents and supervisors certified.”

The speaker lineup includes leaders from outside the industry as well as from within CAM-X’s membership.  One hot topic will be Internet marketing, including selling IT services, email response, and message texting.  There will also be a future focused session peering five years into the future, with industry leaders talking about 2012.  The convention will be held October 17-19 in St John’s, Newfoundland.

For more information, go to www.camx.ca or call 800-896-1054.

CAM-X CSR & Supervisor Certification a Success (7/07)

 CAM-X announced a 100 percent success rate for those delegates who participated in the recent CSR and Supervisor Certification exam held in conjunction with the annual Call Centre Coaching Clinic in Calgary, AB in April 2007 and Huntsville, ON in May 2007.

Participants spent two days taking part in a range of modules calculated to address the varied methods of enhancing analysis of services.  In addition, delegates participated in various role-playing and case study components along with a host of other events designed to inspire, educate, and motivate all call center workers.

Once the delegates had completed the intensive and innovative training-review modules, they applied their expertise to the CSR/Supervisor exam where every participant passed.  “This is a new Member Service initiative and we are extremely pleased with the preparation and dedication from each of the delegates,” said Michael Leibowitz, CAM-X president. 

CAM-X executive director, Linda Osip, in conjunction with the board of directors, would like to extend their mutual congratulations to all the participants whose efforts and commitment enhance the reputation of call centers everywhere.

CAM-X (www.camx.ca) is a Canadian-based trade association for the call management industry.

CAM-X Launches CSR & Supervisor Certification (6/07)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) unveiled their CSR and Supervisor Certification programs to an enthusiastic crowd at the recent Call Centre Coaching Clinic in Calgary, AB.  Eighteen supervisors, senior agents, and managers took the CSR exam and were given an oral interview by a certifier on site.  All eighteen successfully passed the exam.

Over two days, mentors and coaches worked with the supervisors to complete the supervisor exam, which consists of general questions, management questions, equipment specific questions, and twelve in-depth case studies.  All attendees completed their exams on-site and are anxiously awaiting their results. 

This new member service was in response to member requests for a standardized industry training program which would demonstrate a level of competence.  CAM-X congratulates all attendees of the Western Conference.  Their professionalism and resourcefulness was evident throughout the sessions.

CAM-X (www.camx.ca) is a Canadian based trade association for the call management industry.  For any additional information about certification, contact Linda Osip, executive director at 800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca.

CAM-X’s Breast Cancer Research Fundraising Totals $82,000  (3/07)

In 2004, CAM-X raised $20,000 in support of breast cancer research followed by $34,000 in 2005.  This year, with the support of both CAM-X members and CAM-X vendors, the Association raised close to $28,000, bringing the three-year total to $82,000.

“CAM-X members and vendors continue to amaze us.  By including the silent auction at the last three conferences, we have raised over $82,000 in support of this worthy cause.  Our members are generous and big-hearted,” said CAM-X executive director Linda Osip.

For more information about CAM-X, visit www.camx.ca; the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation’s website is www.cbcf.org.


CAM-X Announces Board; Convention a “Success”  (1/07)

CAM-X (the Canadian Call Management Association) announced their board of directors for 2006-2007.  Michael Leibowitz is the new president; Pat Vos becomes the past-president and will be the secretary/treasurer; Casey Smit is the first vice president, while Mary Anne Chase is the second vice president.  The remaining directors are Kelly Doran, Lil Lyle, and Pam Poehlmann.  The vendor representative is Brad Swift; Linda Osip remains the executive director.

CAM-X’s Annual Trade Show and Convention was deemed an overwhelming success by attendees.  Keynote speaker, Michael Kerr, opened the sessions with anecdotes on how to bring a little levity, while still striving for excellence, into the day-to-day operations of a business.

The much-anticipated CAM-X Award of Excellence and Award of Distinction presentations were also made.  The convention concluded with a whirlwind of information sessions, culminating in the prestigious Gala Dinner and Banquet.  Michael Leibowitz received a hearty welcome as he was presented with the CAM-X president’s gavel upon assuming the role of president for the upcoming term.

CAM-X is a Canadian-based trade association for the call management industry.  For more information, contact Linda Osip at 800-896-1054 or visit www.camx.ca.


CAM-X Early Registration Set Record (10/06)

Record-breaking Early Bird Registration numbers indicate Cancun, Mexico to be a really big hit with CAM-X members in both Canada and the United States as delegates from both sides of the border prepare to head south in November for the CAM-X 42nd Annual Convention & Trade Show.

The Early Bird drawing of a free upgrade to a Junior Suite at the beautiful Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas went to Marci Imes of Advantage Answering Plus of San Luis Obispo, California.   

“Both the destination, as well as the must-see line up of presenters hailing from across Canada, the U.S., Great Britain, and the Netherlands, have created an international buzz that has driven the early rush to register,” says convention chair Michael Leibowitz.  “Coupled with the fabulous Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas property and the exceptional all-inclusive pricing the committee was able to secure, this offers an exceptional deal that conventioneers are jumping on,” he added. 

The convention will be held November 14-17, 2006 with a preconference “Vendor Day” on November 13.

For more information, go to www.camx.ca or call 800-896-1054.


CAM-X Convention in Cancun  (7/06)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) is going way south of the Canadian border to host its 42nd Annual Convention and Trade Show in Cancun, Mexico at the Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas, November 14-17, 2006.

Conventioneers will find a schedule allowing plenty of free time to enjoy the warm sun of Cancu , with a mix of quality time for meetings and exhibits and evenings free for networking and enjoying the local scene.  The day prior to the official conference is designated “Vendor Day” and set to feature user group meetings.

The conference theme is “Just say See, Sea, Si” and the agenda includes presentations covering, among other topics: Delivering Excellent Customer Service, Selling to the Next Generation of Clients – How to Land Corporate Accounts, Outsourcing and Multi Lingual Solutions, Niche Marketing, and VoIP.  Conventioneers are advised to bring along their sunglasses, beachwear, and plenty of sun block as they learn what’s new and exciting while they take in the beautiful ambiance of Cancun.

For more information, contact Linda Osip at 800-896-1054, Linda@camx.ca or visit www.camx.ca.


CAM-X to Continue Fundraising to Fight Breast Cancer  (7/06)

As part of their 42nd Annual Convention & Trade Show, CAM-X will hold their third annual Silent Auction.  One hundred percent of the proceeds will go directly to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.  The gala will also include the popular “Shave to Save” feature, where CAM-X members volunteer to shave their heads to raise funds for cancer research.

CAM-X is currently lining up auction items and would appreciate everyone’s help in making this fundraiser a resounding success.  Since this will occur at their 42nd Annual Convention, they plan to raise $42,000 dollars, approximately 20% more than last year. 

Supporters can help them reach their goal by donating goods, services, novelty items, dinners, vacation packages, and so forth.  Items and package descriptions are displayed throughout the convention, with bids closing at the Gala Banquet.  All donations will be gratefully acknowledged in the convention program. 

To donate an item or service, please email camxauction@camx.ca.  Deadline for submissions is September 30, 2006.


The CAM-X 42nd Annual Convention and Trade Show  (4/06)

CAM-X, The Canadian Call Management Association, is hosting their 42nd Annual Convention in Cancun, Mexico, from November 14-17, 2006.  The convention will offer the opportunity to exchange ideas, network with other industry professionals, attend industry-relevant presentations, and interact with vendors.  The focus of the conference is “How you can improve your operations: Before, During, and After the Call.” 

CAM-X has negotiated a special rate with the Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas, a world-class five star resort.  The room rates range from $120 to $184 U.S. per person per day.  This is an all-inclusive rate that includes all meals, drinks, taxes, tips, and water sports.

For additional information, contact Linda Osip , Executive Director at 800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca, or visit www.camx.ca.


CAM-X Announces 2006 Coaching Clinics (4/06)

CAM-X (Canadian Call Management Association), announced the program for the 2006 Call Centre Coaching Clinics.  The annual regional seminars will be held at the Quality Suites in Toronto, ON April 21-22 and at the Greenwood Inn in Calgary, AB May 5-6, 2006.  Online registration and rates are available at www.camx.ca.

The CAM-X Continuing Education Committee is committed to hosting an inspiring, thought-provoking and extraordinary conference.  The conference is targeted to call center managers, supervisors and team leaders.  A partial list of topics include: finding staff in a competitive market; best practices in screening new hires; training, bonus and incentive programs; conflict resolution, and dealing with change.

For any additional information contact Linda Osip, Executive Director at 800-896-1054 or linda@camx.ca, or visit www.camx.ca.


CAM-X Support for Breast Cancer Research Continues Strong  (3/06)

Last year, CAM-X raised $20,000 in support of breast cancer research.  This year, that number was significantly surpassed.  With the support of both CAM-X members and CAM-X vendors, the association was able to raise over $33,000 in support of this cause.

The silent auction for breast cancer research was such a success last year that it was decided to maintain the same format at the 2005 tradeshow and conference.  A wide variety of items were donated.  They included two nights accommodation at the prestigious Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, SC; spa packages; IPODs; a weekend at Jay Peak ski resort; one week at Holimont Ski Resort in Ellicottville, NY; cottage retreats; and golf packages.

“CAM-X continues to raise the bar and our members continue to surpass.  I am so proud, but not surprised, to have surpassed last year’s accomplishment.  Our members are generous and big hearted.” said CAM-X Executive Director Linda Osip.

For more information about CAM-X, visit www.camx.ca.  For more information about the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF), go to www.cbcf.org.


CAM-X to Present the New Face of the Call Center  (11/05)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) invites you to hear about progressive call centers that have broken away from the old answering service stereotypes.  Join CAM-X at their 41st Annual Convention and Trade Show, November 29 through December 2, 2005, Alberta.  At the convention, they will explore the incredible evolution of the industry from cord board message takers to fully integrated partners in clients’ businesses.  Attendees will see the many ways to make clients’ businesses more productive, more professional, and more profitable.

Gary Pudles, President and CEO of the AnswerNet Network, will welcome us to the “Evolution,” delivering a fun and educational session that will take a fresh look at how the industry has moved beyond this old model.  “CAMX members tend to be quite progressive in the services they deliver to their customers,” Pudles stated.  “However, like any technology driven businesses, many of our members have only begun to scratch the surface on new and exciting revenue streams and opportunities.”

For more information, contact CAM-X at 800-896-1054 or visit www.camx.ca.


CAM-X Convention to Feature Western BBQ  (9/05)

Celebrating the spirit of our forefathers, the Canadian Call Management Association (-X) is hosting a Western BBQKananaskis, Alberta; the theme of the conference is “Exploring Future Frontiers.”

CAM-X members’ number one request is for more opportunities to network throughout the conference.  Therefore, the 2005 convention committee is thrilled to announce the addition of an offsite dinner to the schedule of events, accommodating the membership’s request.  CAM-X invites readers to dig out those cowboy hats and bandanas, and prepare to Explore Future Frontiers in Kananaskis, November 29 – December 2, 2005.

The Canadian Call Management Association encompasses call centers and contact centers across Canada and the US.  For more information, contact CAM-X at 800-896-1054.


The CAM-X 41st Annual Convention to Explore New Frontiers  (6/05)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) is hosting their 41st Annual Convention in Kananaskis, Alberta from November 29th to December 2nd, 2005.  Kananaskis is situated in the foothills of the beautiful and pristine Canadian Rocky Mountains, one hour from Calgary.  The area is known as an incredible outdoor playground that offers skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fly fishing, golf, rafting, and cave tours.

The convention’s theme is “Exploring New Frontiers” and the program lineup is designed to assist delegates to do exactly that: explore, learn, and share new ideas that will help attendees improve profitability as they drive their businesses forward.  The keynote presenter will be Kit Grant.  Mr. Grant’sExpand Your Comfort Zone” and “Taking Personal Responsibility” messages help build stronger relationships that directly improve bottom-line results and increased productivity. His dynamic style has influenced thousands of people to implement strategies that impact both their personal and professional successes.

The convention lineup is an exciting mix of industry hot topics.  Presentations include:

  • Corporate Branding – Casey and Gail Smit

  • Profit Enhancement – Kristin Crowe

  • Making Money with VoIP – Rene Tuerlings

  • Welcome to the Evolution – Gary Pudles

  • Disaster Preparedness – Paul Lloyd

  • Errors and Omissions Insurance – David Eastaugh

  • Is Your Call Center Ergonomically Correct? – Barbara Bradbury

  • Avoiding Unionization – Merrill Shulman

  • Relocating Your Call Centre – Pat Vos, Sydney Ryan, John Ratliff, and Mike Leibowitz

  • Supercharged Networking – Patti Tallman

CAM-X is planning its ever-popular pre-event day.  This year's scheduled event includes a visit to beautiful Banff Springs and will include a gondola ride with views to leave one breathless.  There will also be the always popular networking breakfasts, the Awards of Excellence Luncheon, and the Gala Closing Banquet including the presentation of the Tom Ryan Award and the Hall of Fame induction.

CAM asks that you mark your calendar today for what’s set to be yet another information-filled, jam packed, fun-filled Convention.  The 2005 Convention Committee looks forward to welcoming you to the Delta Resort at Kananaskis; see www.deltalodgeatkananaskis.ca for more information.

For any additional information, contact Linda Osip at the CAM-X office at 800-896-1054 linda@camx.caa.


CAM-X to “Embrace Excellence”  (3/05)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) announced the program for the 2005 Call Centre Coaching Clinics, “Embracing Excellence.”  The annual regional seminars will be held at the Quality Suites in Toronto, ON on April 8-9 and at the Executive Royal Inn in Calgary, AB on

“The Coaching Clinics are an excellent learning opportunity,” stated Ann Sutherland of Alliance Wireless Communications, in Kingston, ON.  “It gives us a chance to be recharged and refocused.  We get so many ideas from the seminars, not only from the speakers, but from the attendees.”

Marlene Lancaster, from Quality Assurance Manager, in Answer Plus Inc., Toronto, ON concurs.  “I look forward to attending every year.  It is wonderful to be among people who completely understand the challenges that we face every day and that I am not alone in my frustrations or challenges.”

For more information, contact Executive Director Linda Osip


CAM-X Clinics to “Embrace Excellence”  (3/05)

The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) announced the theme for their upcoming 2005 Call Centre Coaching Clinic - Embracing Excellence. The annual regional seminars will be held in Toronto, April 8-10, 2005 and in Calgary, May 1, 2005.

The CAM-X Continuing Education Committee is committed to hosting an inspiring, thought-provoking, and extraordinary conference.  The conference is broken up into two parts.  The first two days are targeted to managers, supervisors, and team leaders in the call center/teleservices service environment.  The third day of the clinic is dedicated to sales professionals within the industry.  Attendants can register for one or both sections.

The program will offer the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from other professionals in the industry.  A partial list of topics includes:

  • Methods to Improve Performance
  • Professionalism and Leadership - Defining your Role
  • Coaching Skills for Success
  • Discipline Strategies
  • Improving Morale

For more information on this year’s CAM-X Call Centre Coaching Clinics, please contact Linda Osip, Executive Director at 800-896-1054 or at linda@camx.ca.

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