# Build an AI voice agent

> Give the agent a clear role, a useful first message, and business instructions it can follow during a live call.

Reviewed: 2026-09-30

Source: https://docs.callultra.com/documentation/agents

## Create an agent

Open **Agents**, choose **New Agent**, and select the setup path that fits your workflow. Start with one calling goal so the first test is easy to evaluate.

![Create a new CallUltra assistant](https://docs.callultra.com/assets/creating-your-first-agent-02-create-new-assistant.webp)

Start from the Agents area and open a new agent configuration.

## Write the call instructions

Use the script area to define who the agent represents, why it is calling, what information it should collect, and what to do when the caller is busy, unsure, or not interested.

Keep the instructions grounded in facts your business can verify. Tell the agent when to ask a follow-up question, when to use a tool, and when to end or transfer the call.

Prompt outline

ROLE
Who the agent is and which business it represents.

CALL GOAL
Why this person is being contacted and the next step to reach.

BOUNDARIES
What the agent must not promise or assume.

WHEN TO ACT
Which details to capture and which CallUltra action to use.

## Configure the agent

| Setting | What it controls |
| --- | --- |
| Direction | Whether the agent handles inbound calls, outbound calls, or both. |
| First message | The opening sentence spoken when the call is answered. |
| Voice | The model voice used for the agent's spoken responses. |
| Language | The language instruction used for the conversation. |
| Patience | How long the agent waits for the caller's turn to finish. |
| Ambient sound | Optional background audio mixed under the agent's speech. |

## Save, test, and deploy

1. **Save the draft** — Review the first message and call instructions before saving.
2. **Use the voice playground** — Speak to the agent and test normal answers, silence, and interruptions.
3. **Place a Quick Call** — Confirm the same greeting and turn-taking on a phone.
4. **Deploy the agent** — After the handset test is clear, use the agent in a campaign or assign it to a number.