Payment and sustaining the partnership
The cost is obviously important although try not to focus solely on this. A Win-Win is the desired outcome here and much can be mitigated through KPI’s.
Ideally paying for the caller by the month is the simplest calculation with payment at the month end. However, there may be a setup fee and other charging options such as per hour or per contact. Also, will there be a need to be break clauses?
You would definitely want to meet any provider. Ideally at their office to gauge the atmosphere and set up. Ultimately you are looking for a desire to work together and create a real partnership. As already mentioned, it is just as important to sell yourselves to them to help create enthusiasm for the relationship.