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BPO companies are involved with operations relating to anything from medical transcription to e-commerce transactions and web designing/development to software applications. The skill sets required to enter BPOs vary according to the area of specialization of the company. But increasingly studies seem to indicate that youngsters think twice before taking up a job in the industry due to the problems associated with jobs in these companies.

"This is a great industry to make some extra money while in college. It also helps you get an idea about the work culture," says Geeta, a former BPO employee. "But I found it quite hectic and decided to drop out."

"Every job has some negative aspect; it is up to us to deal with it. But yes, you need to be committed to the job to survive in this industry," points out Archana who has been working in a call center for the past four years.

Before taking the decision to go in for a job in an outsourcing firm it is vital to reassess and determine how well you can adapt to the pressure that is so inherent in this industry

Would you be able to perform repetitive jobs without feeling bored
Are you the sensitive type who cannot deal with irate customers
Do you have enough support at home
Would you enjoy shift work, can you work in night shifts
Do you have high stamina
How well can you handle pressure

"I am working in a BPO and also attending college. It feels great to be independent and pay my own bills," says Menaka. "I have not really decided my course of action after completing my studies. As of now I am planning to continue work even though my schedule needs a fair bit of jugglery. My communication skills have improved and so has my fluency in English, this has helped me in my studies too."

For some working in a BPO is a fashionable choice, while some consider it a stop gap arrangement to earn good money while studying. The choice to work for a short period or long term here depends solely on the expectations from this field of employment.