Is Pleio GoodStart a Legitimate Work from Home Company?

Updated on: by Amy Kennedy

If you’re looking for phone-based work you can do from your home office, then becoming a Pleio GoodStart Mentor might be for you. Pleio offers consistent work, competitive pay, and an excellent support team for agents. Here’s how to get started.Not everyone loves the idea of calling people to sell stuff to them as part of their job.

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Are you looking for a work at home phone job that is NOT sales?

Do you enjoy helping people, especially patients?

Then Pleio may have something for you.

Pleio GoodStart is kind of a refreshing company in the work from home world.

When searching for remote jobs to talk about on this blog, I almost always come across more telemarketing jobs that require salesy speeches and uncomfortable contacts with people over the phone.

That type of work isn’t for everyone (in fact, most people stay far away from it!) but it might seem like your only option when working from home.

It’s not though.

Pleio GoodStart is a place that lets you contact people over the phone, but not to sell anything to them.

Instead, you’ll simply be helping them!

This Pleio GoodStart review is designed to help you learn more about the company, what the Pleio work from home position is like, and how it might benefit you.

What Exactly is Pleio GoodStart?

Originally reviewed in 2013, Pleio has been through many changes as most work-at-home companies have been through, which is why I felt it was important to update our review.

Pleio (pronounced “Play-O”) is a company based out of Canada that has incorporated into the US.

In 2013 it became known as Calladay on the US side.

This was to distinguish the call center in Arizona from the original headquarters in Canada.

A Pleio GoodStart Agent as was the original name is a person who provides a complimentary follow-up service for people on important medications.

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This service is a way to help patients build a good routine for their medication and overall health.

Originally, there were two types of calls: registration and customer service.

Now, the customer service agents also do the registration calls.

All calls are outbound and come into your hardwired phone via their own calling system, Tandem.

Pleio has also given a new name to its agents: Pleio GoodStart Mentor.

It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?

What Do GoodStart Mentors Do at Pleio?

As a Pleio GoodStart Mentor, you’ll be helping patients learn more about the drugs they take for a variety of ailments.

You’ve probably been to a doctor before and have gotten a drug prescribed with little to no explanation about its possible side effects, how to take it properly, etc.

Yes, you can typically ask for this information from your doctor or at the pharmacy you use to fill your prescriptions, but sometimes it slips our mind to do that.

Most—not all—patients will sign up for the GoodStart Program at their local pharmacy.

However, most of the patients don’t know much about the program, which is where the GoodStart agents come into the picture.

As a GoodStart agent you will be officially following up the patients and registering them.

You might also be calling patients to remind them to take their medications.

Think of yourself like a helpful assistant to patients who have several drugs to take daily and might find the process confusing.

Then depending upon the drug program, you will be following up with a series of two to four calls all roughly one to two weeks apart.

These calls are from a script, which you will be reading and going over with the patient.

The scripts are reportedly very human-like so that you can actually form a relationship with the people you call.

Most of the medications you’ll be talking about are well-known medications that you have seen on television commercials for diabetes, hypertension, depression, and also high cholesterol.

These are not generic drugs, but the ones made by big-name pharmaceuticals such as Merck or Novartis.

While you won’t be giving medical advice or answering medical-type questions, you will be reading a script and reviewing the routine and side effects of the drug.

You will also reporting any AE or Adverse Events the patient is having with the drug.

Adverse Events are symptoms directly related to the known side effects of the drug.

Pleio has a very specific way it needs to have Adverse Events reported.

Many GoodStart agents start out on one drug program and then as they learn and become more fluent in the process, are then invited to train for other programs.

It is not uncommon for agents to have eight or more drug programs that they call on.

Is This An Independent Contractor or Employee Position?

This is an independent contractor position and not an employee position.

As an independent contractor, you’ll be responsible for choosing your hours, managing your taxes, tracking your income, etc.

There are no required or expected hours a GoodStart Mentor must work.

Pleio GoodStart Mentors sign a one-year contract after 30 days of successful on-boarding.

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You won’t get any benefits from the company as an independent contractor since you’ll be in business for yourself.

On the plus side, you’re free to work with other companies at the same time you’re working with Pleio to help boost you to the income level you want.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements to Work at Pleio?

Other than being able to meet the technical requirements (see the next subhead below), you must be 18 years of age and a US citizen.

You should also have a professional phone manner and be detail-oriented.

To work at Pleio, you may NOT reside in:

  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Washington
  • Wyoming

Pleio GoodStart now also requires its Mentors to have a criminal background check conducted before they are allowed to work.

This check is done to protect the company’s customers who share personal and sensitive information with the company so that Pleio can assist them with their medications.

You’ll be expected to honor all privacy policies that protect customers, such as not discussing with anyone else the customers’ medical situation, age, or any other personal information.

Unfortunately, each agent is responsible for paying the $45 fee to get a background check as Pleio will not cover the cost for you.

Before working for Pleio, you’ll also need to get an EIN, or employee identification number.

Although you can typically work for yourself without an EIN by just using your social security number, some companies will require an EIN instead for tax purposes.

This does actually benefit you because you’ll be handing over your EIN rather than your social security number, which is safer to do.

You can get an EIN for free by using the IRS website.

What Are the Technical Requirements to Work at Pleio?

The technical requirements to work at Pleio are just about what most work-at-home call centers require.  They are:

  • a landline phone (no wireless) without any voicemail or call waiting installed
  • a noise-canceling headset for the phone
  • a hard-wired laptop or PC
  • a Skype connection for communication and training
  • Windows 7 or higher
  • virus and malware protection
  • 4 GB of RAM
  • DSL or cable for high-speed Internet connection with a minimum of 15 mbps download speed and 3 mbsp upload speed
  • Computer monitor that can display at least 1024×768
  • Latest version of Java, Flash player, and a PDF viewer installed on your computer
  • A connected printer to be used for printing scripts for calls

From time to time, you may also be asked to run your computer through the Belarc Advisor or another system and take a screenshot of the results to prove that your computer system is up to date.

What is Training Like at Pleio?

Training as a Pleio GoodStart Mentor is done through a self-paced learning management system which provides “hands-on” application.

The full training to become a Pleio GoodStart mentor should take between 10 to 15 hours, but you can split these hours up over a few days if desired.

Training is much like role-playing what real calls would be like to make sure you understand exactly what you’ll be doing once you stary.

The expectation would be for the Mentor to be on the schedule taking live calls after the second day of role-play.

Training is completely free, so there won’t be any costs you’ll need to worry about there before getting started with paid work.

Unfortunately, training isn’t paid either, so you’ll need to take that into consideration when you’re working through the material.

It’s probably best to not waste too many days getting through training so that you can get started with your paid work quicker.

After training is when each agent will need to have their background check to ensure that they pass before they start working.

The background check fee is $45.

What is the Pay Like at Pleio?

There is a lot of mixed information on the web about pay for Pleio GoodStart Mentors, although none of it is really negative.

It’s just confusing because different reports say different things.

So, in this section I’m going to give you the most updated and accurate information I find.

However, I can’t actually confirm any of it with Pleio because the company doesn’t list any of its pay information on its site, besides a few mentions of bonuses for Mentors for good performances, hitting their first few hours of work, etc.

From what I can tell, pay is still once a month through direct deposit.

The direct deposit usually is delivered sometime between the 15th and 24th of every month.

The average GoodStart Mentor makes an average of $16 an hour.

Those who consistently work 30 hours, evenings and Saturdays average more like $18-20 an hour.

What Are the Hours Like at Pleio?

Pleio’s calling hours are 8am-midnight EST M-Saturday.

However, you can pick your schedules within those calling times.

If you can only work 3 days a week, that’s fine.

According to reports, Pleio recommends Mentors work at least 16 hours a week, so you can always split your days up into three 5-6 hour days if that’s what works best for you.

Remember, though, that the more you can work, the more opportunities you’ll be presented with, such as bonuses, ideal shifts, etc.

What Do Others Think of Pleio?

Like all work at home companies, opinions vary and vary greatly about Pleio.

However, over the years it seems like Pleio GoodStart Mentors love the company more and more.

Most of the reviews I find online are now very positive, whereas a few years ago they seemed more mixed.

Pleio now has a 4.3 rating on Glassdoor when it used to hover right around a 3 just a few years ago when it was last reviewed here on Work at Home Adventures.

That shows that the company is definitely doing something right as far as keeping its Mentors happy and providing an ideal work environment that remote staffers can thrive with.

Positives of Pleio

There are so many good things that Mentors say about Pleio GoodStart!

One of the most common praises I’ve seen is that the company offers a very helpful management and support team for any Mentor who needs some help, whether it’s with customer fulfillment, tech support, or some other reason.

It’s always good to have an awesome support system on your side in whatever job you choose, so it’s nice to hear that many agents agree that Pleio is one of the best.

Another thing Mentors like is the ability to pick their own schedule.

As long as you’re hitting your minimum hours per week as outlined in your contract, you can schedule yourself when you’re available within Pleio’s normal calling hours.

This is awesome news for people with kids at home who need to work around their family’s schedules before anything else.

I’ve also seen agents mention that the training program is very helpful to them before they begin working.

Since it’s like a role-playing system, you’ll actually get hands-on experience before jumping on your first call, which can make you feel much more prepared before you start talking to real customers.

Finally, I also see a lot of positive compliments about the pay, which is unusual to see with a lot of work at home companies.

Often, the company says you can make a great hourly wage but that wage is dependent upon how busy it is when you’re actually scheduled to work.

It seems like Pleio usually has a consistent flow of work available regardless of the hours you decide to schedule yourself, meaning that everyone should be capable of making around $16 an hour.

Drawbacks of Pleio

Although there aren’t many negative reviews about Pleio in recent years, there are still a few cons I think are important to mention so that you can get a full picture of the company and what to expect.

One area of concern is that you don’t actually get an hourly rate working for Pleio.

Instead, your rate is based on how many calls you can take within an hour.

So, say one customer asks a lot of questions and keeps you on the phone for a while.

You won’t be able to take as many calls that way, so your hourly rate could suffer.

However, most people still agree that it’s possible to make about $16 an hour, on average, while some hours might just be a bit less, like $12 to $14.

Some Mentors also don’t love that they’re required to spend $45 off the bat for a background check.

Remember, though, that while this cost is inconvenient, it’s normal.

You’re not an employee, but an independent contractor, which means that you’re responsible for those kinds of expenses.

Typically, employers would pick up this fee but the company’s simply not required to when it’s not your employer.

However, you can always talk to an accountant about the possibility of deducting the cost from your taxes as part of your business expenses.

How Can An Interested Individual Apply to Pleio?

There is an actual process to go through when you apply to become a Pleio GoodStart Mentor.  There is Step 1 and Step 2.

Step 1 includes:

  • Fill out the online application and attach a resume.
  • Pass the technology assessment with a score of 85% or above.
  • Record one mock call (script reading) via calling the 800 number given.
  • Pass the Pleio Privacy test with a score of 90% or higher after 2 attempts (must pass the above steps first).
  • Pass the phone interview and questions asked.

Now if all of these requirements are met, then go to Step 2.  Step 2 includes:

  • Electronically sign the new hire package which includes a W-9 Form, direct deposit form, background release form, and other confidential forms.
  • You must apply for an EIN number, because you are not allowed to use your social security number any longer. Applying for an EIN is free.
  • Pass the online practicum with a score of 90% or higher and any other onboarding requirements.
  • Pass the Adverse Events required test with a score of 90% or higher.

You can go to their website and click on the apply button to begin the process.

Remember that, although Pleio always has its initial application available on its site, it isn’t always hiring.

You can fill out the assessment at your leisure to apply for a spot on the team, but don’t be surprised if you don’t hear back right away.

Pleio holds onto applications of everyone that applies until it needs to hire more workers as business picks up or other workers dwindle to limited schedules.

Then, you’ll have the opportunity of getting contacted if your skills and initial assessment match what the company is looking for.

Good luck to all who pursue this opportunity.

Common FAQs About Pleio GoodStart

What is the role of a Pleio GoodStart Mentor?

A Pleio GoodStart Mentor provides personalized telephone-based support for patients taking prescribed medications.

Their duties include offering medication reminders, relevant information, and encouragement to enhance medication adherence.

What qualifications do I need to become a Pleio GoodStart Mentor?

While a background in healthcare or customer service can be beneficial, the specific requirements can vary.

Key skills include excellent communication abilities, empathy, and a strong desire to assist people. Pleio typically provides training to help mentors understand the program and their responsibilities.

How much time commitment is required for a Pleio GoodStart Mentor?

The time commitment can vary based on the needs of the program and the patients being supported.

This could be a part-time or full-time role, but it’s best to check directly with Pleio for accurate information.

How do I apply to become a Pleio GoodStart Mentor?

You can generally apply to become a Pleio GoodStart Mentor through the Pleio website or job recruitment platforms.

However, the exact process may vary, so it’s advisable to check with Pleio directly for the most current application process.

Can I work as a Pleio GoodStart Mentor from home?

Pleio typically allows Mentors to work from home as they provide support via phone. However, it’s best to confirm the current work setup directly with Pleio.

The Verdict: Is Pleio GoodStart a Good Work from Home Job?

In my opinion, absolutely.

This is a company I’ve spent a lot of time researching over the years.

We continuously add it to our work at home job lists in a variety of categories because it continues to be a leader in flexibility, pay, and support.

Over the years, it seems to only have gotten better, which makes me even more excited for its future.

I haven’t found any complaints of the company not paying, being rude to its agents, or getting involved in any shady practices.

Instead, what I find when I research is positive reviews and ratings and a company that stands behind its Mentors with proper training and ongoing support.

This is definitely a company I stand behind and recommend to anyone looking for a phone-based work from home job.

We’d love to hear from you if you’ve worked with Pleio GoodStart before or currently do. What has been your experience? Did you enjoy the work? Leave us a comment with your thoughts below.

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Oria

September 20, 2017 at 8:05 am

I read on Glassdoor that the company pays per call. I thought is was an hourly wage. Can you please clarify which is accurate.