Despite what many people think, the customer service industry is a highly lucrative industry. Every business needs to have a customer service department. After all, they are the first port of call for customers.
With it's low barrier to entry, it is fairly easy to get a job as a customer service assistant. Sure, you'll come across some difficult customers and work anti-social hours. These two things are enough for people to quit. But there's one guarantee with this sector, it can help you develop skills and gain experience to put on your CV.
We do know that it can be very frustrating to work in this sector so we've listed these six tips to help you keep your head in the game so you can get the most out of this customer-facing environment.
1. Difficult Customers
Customers that enter your place of business can range from seemingly thick headed to down-right rude and hateful. The important thing to keep in mind is your store's customer service policy which outlines how you should deal with difficult customers.
If you come across customers who are extremely offensive and aggressive, you have a right to refuse to serve them. You even have the right to ask them to leave too -- but make sure your manager does that. You don't want an angry customer going to your manager and complain about you asking them to leave.
Remember, you can always ask either your manager or an experienced colleague for help. They were once in your shoes too.
2. Anti-Social Working Hours
For many, customer service jobs serve as short-term income stream during school, university or other commitments. For these scenarios, ensuring you have the right work schedule is crucial.
To make sure that you are able to work around your classes or commitments, be sure to negotiate your availability.
Most application processes will at some point ask you when you are available to work. While it may be tempting to tell your employer that you're flexible, this is a mistake. If you allow them to schedule you in whenever they want, they will almost always do so at your detriment.
So, don't be afraid to be assertive with your availability. And when being assertive, always ensure you're polite, diplomatic and amicable. You need the income after all.
3. Promotions
If you enjoy the retail environment and have heard whispers of how much more your managers and co-workers are making, then you're probably wondering how you can advance.
One way to show your employer that you're serious about moving up is by seeking training outside of what they teach you on the job.
Here at The Learning Station, we can help you achieve the relevant
customer service qualifications thanks to our flexible distance learning courses. You'll have access to course materials and support 24-hours-a-day, 7-day-a-week.
4. Co-Worker Drama
The work place, particularly the customer service industry, is a great environment to make friends. However, like all work places, there will be some personalities amongst your colleagues that are bound to clash. That's life.
When your co-workers eventually start talking about the weird new guy or the evil boss, be sure to distance yourself from these conversations. It is for your own sanity and for your career.
Instead of getting into the gossip scene, make yourself busy by excelling in your career. You'll avoid getting sucked into meaningless conversations and you'll impress your superiors at the same time.
5. Workplace Romantic Relationships
Workplace romantic relationships are a bad idea, period. Not only are they often frowned upon by managerial staff, they're a huge distraction from your career goals. It's kind of a lose-lose situation.
Not to mention, if the relationship turns sours, you'll be face a whole new set of challenges everyday with that work colleague you used to be in a relationship with.
6. Maintaining Professionalism
Being a professional is all about balance. You don't have to keep your head and voice down all day every day, making every move about your career goals. It's okay to relax sometimes.
Be friendly to your co-workers in and out of work, be patient with customers, and get your tasks completed. Just don't lose focus of why you're working in the first place.
How do you handle working in the customer service industry? Let me know in the comments section below!
Student Login
My Account