How to get a customer services job
Working in customer service involves direct interaction with customers, problem-solving, answering questions, often processing orders and of course, helping people. Customer service can take place via email, phone, live chat, social media or video call, depending on the type of business and the service they offer.
Good customer service is an incredibly important aspect of modern business – from tiny start-ups to large established businesses – because service, support and improving customer experience are absolutely vital to all companies. In addition to contributing to your employer’s bottom line and overall brand image, you will be taking care of the people they rely on for business: the customers.
Being a customer service representative can range from being an individual within a department to being a member of vast support teams based in several locations, providing instructions and support for people who have purchased a product or service. Whatever the position, you will be key in helping customers make decisions and offering support.
There are many job options for those considering a career in customer service, and there are positions available in almost every industry. These include call centres, brick-and-mortar and online retailers, credit card companies, insurance companies, financial institutions and more.
Looking for a customer services job? Check out our job search here. Or find comprehensive jobseekers’ advice here.
Ideal skillset
Regardless of the job description, you will need to have your own skillset, especially when customers are having problems with a product or service they purchased. Being listened to and handled with patience goes a long way in helping customers feel like you are there to alleviate their frustrations. The ability to empathise with a customer can often make all the difference too.
Being attentive to customers is crucial; the skill of active listening will help you stay present in the moment and determine the root cause of a problem. Those that thrive in a career in customer service are emotionally intelligent so that instead of taking things personally, they intuitively understand where the other person is coming from.
Problem-solving skills are key because customers do not always self-diagnose their issues correctly, so it is often up to the customer services rep to take the initiative when navigating a solution. Communication skills and attention to detail are of course a must.
When looking at how to get a customer service job, keep in mind that different industries will have different requirements. For example, some companies will require that you know how to work with databases, online platforms and software applications.
Find out more in our blog How to apply for a customer service job with no experience?
Experience, qualifications and training
Some customer service positions will state that you need to have previous sales experience, while others will require more service and support focus, with no sales involved. An experienced customer service representative should have a strong background in responding to customers in a professional setting. Generally, the positions with more skill requirements will provide a better salary, so look for these service jobs if you fit the criteria.
Someone working in a customer support role will often be one of the first voices that someone hears when contacting an organisation and therefore on-the-job training is always given so that the customer will receive the best experience, working within their particular service or support guidelines.
Varying levels of qualifications are required for a customer services job depending on the employer and sector. Some may be more concerned with prior experience and skills, whereas others may want formal qualifications.
Entry-level requirements may include GCSEs and A-Levels, or an apprenticeship in customer service or sometimes a degree. You could take a college course before applying, courses are widely available and include Level 1 Certificate in Customer Service and Level 2 Certificate in Contact Centre Operations.
Application tips on how to get a customer service job
Read through the job description noting the skills that the employer is looking for in a candidate and write down the keywords that match your skillset. With just a few keywords and phrases, you will be able to highlight your valuable customer service skills, relevant qualifications and experience, giving you a tailored CV and covering letter.
Research the company beforehand – whether you’re writing your cover letter, preparing for your interview, or drafting your resume, research is crucial to your job search. Check out the potential employer’s website to figure out their approach to customer service; Do they want customers to remember the company and their experience? What are their customer service policies? What’s the company culture like, and how would you fit in? Having answers to these questions beforehand will impress hiring managers and increase your chances of getting the job.
To submit your CV to Cantello Tayler, please fill out the form here and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.
How can Cantello Tayler help?
Cantello Tayler Recruitment offer over 130 years of experience providing permanent, temporary and contract candidates with roles ranging from administration to customer service, across a wide range of industries and sectors.
Our dedicated, friendly and professional team are here to help you every step of the way and we take pride in offering an exceptional level of service and thoroughly enjoy working in partnership with our candidates to help you find the right customer service role that meets all your requirements.
We offer a bespoke service to our candidates, offering as much support and guidance as you require, including answering any answer questions you may have on CV building, cover letter writing, job application advice, offer management, and interview tips too.
