PHONE BANK Meaning and
Definition
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A phone bank refers to a centralized location where a group of individuals or employees make phone calls, typically for a specific purpose such as political campaigning, market research, or fundraising activities. In this context, phone banks are often set up with a large number of telephones arranged in cubicles or workstations, facilitating efficient and organized communication.
The primary objective of a phone bank is to conduct outbound calls in order to reach out to a targeted audience or list of phone numbers. This can involve making calls to potential voters, survey respondents, potential donors, or customers for a particular product or service. The callers, commonly referred to as phone bank operators or agents, are trained to deliver a specific message, gather information, or persuade individuals to take a desired action.
Phone banks are typically equipped with computer systems or software that assist in managing the data, keeping track of call outcomes, and automating certain aspects of the calling process. These tools often enable agents to efficiently document responses, schedule callbacks, and maintain contact histories.
Furthermore, phone banks can also operate in an inbound capacity, where individuals are responsible for receiving and handling incoming calls from customers, constituents, or other parties. This type of phone bank may be found in customer support centers, call centers, or helplines.
Overall, phone banks serve as a key communication hub, connecting organizations or campaigns with their target audience through telephone interactions and playing an integral role in various fields.
Etymology of PHONE BANK
The term "phone bank" is a compound noun derived from two separate words: "phone" and "bank". Here is the etymology of each component:
1. "Phone": The word "phone" is a shortened form of "telephone", which is derived from the Greek words "tele", meaning "far", and "phone", meaning "sound" or "voice". The term "telephone" was coined by Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the device, to describe a communication device that transmitted sound over a distance.
2. "Bank": The word "bank" has multiple origins. In this context, "bank" refers to a row or series of similar objects. It is derived from the Old Italian word "banco", meaning a bench or a counter.
