Reckon you've got the gift of gab? If you're a quick thinker, happy to help and have a way with words, a customer service apprenticeship may be perfect for you! If you've got your heart set on doing an apprenticeship scheme but you're still unsure of what industry you want to work in, have a read of this as we give you the complete ins and outs of customer service apprenticeships…

What is customer service?

Customer service is usually described as the assistance of a client before, during and after a purchase. Customer service can be maintained in a number of ways, through a variety of different service mediums and techniques. Depending on the type of product or service the company is providing its purchasers, customer service can range from helping a shopper with an in-store query to giving out support advice over the phone.

All companies rely on customer service to make their business run smoothly. If a customer or client is dissatisfied with the company's product, there would be no department to assist them or manage their complaints. Word would quickly spread about the firm's poor service, which would be extremely bad for business.

Some companies are completely built around call centres, whose sole purpose it is to provide assistance to clients and customers.

How is customer service handled?

In stores, customer service is handled by sales assistants and shop floor personnel, whose responsibility it is to ensure all customers are satisfied and happy with their shopping experience. This can include helping them to find a certain product, performing stock checks, assisting with their purchase, handling returns and complaints, and answering any queries they may have.

Customer service is also usually handled over the phone. Businesses usually have a helpdesk telephone number which customers can ring if they have any further queries or complaints once a purchase has been finalised. With society becoming a lot more computer literate as a whole, some businesses have replaced, or added, the telephone service with an email support program instead.

What will a customer service apprenticeship consist of?

Though each course is different, these apprenticeships will generally supply you with the training necessary to begin a career in customer service. You will be shown the best ways to communicate with customers, how to handle complaints officially and specialised skills that are unique to your industry. Of course, you will earn a wage as you receive your training (at least £2.60 per hour) alongside the valuable work experience that all apprenticeship schemes provide.

What qualities do I need to do a customer service apprenticeship?

Most customer service apprenticeship schemes do not require you to have any specialised or relevant qualifications, though some may insist that candidates have a GCSE in Maths, English and Science.

In customer service, qualifications tend to take a back seat to personality traits, as you'll need to be bubbly, talkative, friendly and approachable to meet customer expectations. You must also be prepared to learn all of the relevant information about the company you're doing the apprenticeship with. In order to assist a client thoroughly, you must be aware of any information linked to their enquiry, providing them with the best service possible.

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