Customer service jobs are one of the most in-demand positions in today’s economy. They pay well and don’t always require a high level of education. If you’re new to the job market, this is a great place to start your career!
However, there are certain factors to take into account before applying for any customer service job, especially if it involves talking with customers over the phone or online.
This guide will help you get started on your path to becoming an awesome customer service representative (CSR). We’ll provide you with tips on how to write a cover letter and resume to maximize your chances, and how to ace the job interview.
Customer Service Job Description
Customer service jobs are available in a wide range of industries, and they’re available in every location you can think of. You’re likely to be able to find a customer service job at a company that does business online, but you also at a local store or restaurant.
Customer service jobs come in all shapes and sizes, too. Some require working with the public directly: answering phones or interacting with customers face-to-face. Others involve helping out behind the scenes by processing orders and invoices, or answering emails from customers who have questions about their purchases.
Still other customer service duties entail doing research for higher-ups within an organization. These positions often involve general administrative tasks like booking appointments and managing calendars for senior executives who don’t have time for these tasks themselves.
It’s important to take all these factors into account when deciding which kind of customer service role you think fits your profile.
Resume Tips
You shouldn’t start applying for any jobs until you have your resume in the best possible shape. A good customer service resume is one of many pieces of the puzzle that will land you an interview with a company.
There are two basic types of resumes: chronological and functional. Chronological resumes list each job in reverse chronological order (most recent first). Functional resumes group jobs around skill sets or other criteria that may be more relevant to employers than dates or titles.
Which type is best depends upon what kind of position you’re seeking. Regardless which style you choose, your resume should highlight your experience and abilities so that potential employers can see how they align with what they’re looking for.
Nailing the Cover Letter
A cover letter is a way for you to directly explain why you are the best person for the job. It should be brief, but it must show that you have the essential customer service skills that fit with the job description.
A personal touch is essential in any good cover letter, so use this section as an opportunity to showcase your personality, not just your writing skills. Let them know how excited you are about this position and how much it would mean to advance in their company.
If there’s anything else about yourself or about your history that might make it easier for them to see why they should hire you, mention it here too.
Include any honors or awards received during college or professional life as well as certifications held within customer service fields such as Retail Management Certification Institute (RMMA), Associate Level or Certified Customer Service Representative – International Council on Systems Engineering CCSRE).
Started with Applying
Once you’ve found an attractive job posting, you’ll need to follow the application instructions and submit your resume and cover letter. If they say “no phone calls,” don’t call them! It’s better to send an email than risk getting your number blocked.
Once you’ve sent your application materials, be sure to follow up with a phone call after two or three days if there’s no response. You want to make sure that human beings are actually reading what you’ve sent them!
Making it through the Interview
If you make it to the interview stage, you need to:
- Research the company and its hiring managers/staff
- Thoroughly prep for the interview and review common interview questions and answers
- Be honest. Don’t lie about your experience or qualifications—your potential employer will find out eventually!
- Be confident. Employers prefer candidates who have confidence in themselves and their abilities
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions
- Be prepared for the worst, but hope for the best!
These tips, while not exhaustive, will help you stand out in the interview and increase your chance of getting a great customer service job. If you’re genuinely enthusiastic about helping people and interacting with them daily, you already have an edge when it comes to getting hired.
About the Author
Susan Noel is an experienced content writer. She is associated with many renowned business and technology blogs as a guest author where she shares her valuable articles with the audience.
