Any company knows that customers are the reason why they are in business. Otherwise, who could consume their products? That’s why they will have departments that address customer needs and queries.
Are you a fresh college graduate or have you been recently laid off? Are you wondering where you will seek employment? Look no further. There are plenty of opportunities in customer support. Whether you studied any courses related to this job or just want to venture into something new, there are different positions that you can fit into well.
Training in customer support jobs takes a relatively short time. Within a month or so, you will have learned a lot about your role. In the first two weeks, much of the theory is covered. Then, for the rest of the month, you work on the ground to familiarize yourself with the responsibilities at hand.
You will meet all sorts of people; young and old, arrogant and friendly. It will be your duty to listen to their concerns and respond accordingly. What qualities are necessary for customer support jobs?
- Patience: you will need to remain calm when the client is breathing flames.
- Being a good listener: being attentive helps in determining where the real problem lies.
- Communication skills: clarity is required when information is relayed verbally or written.
- Interpersonal skills: you should be able to relate well with customers.
- Thorough knowledge of the company: the simplest to the most complex of questions will be answered if you are well informed on business operations.
That said, which jobs are available for you?
Bank Teller
If you have a degree in accounting, this is a job offer that suits you perfectly. You can work in the bank or credit companies. The skills you learned will help you balance figures after hundreds of transactions. Additionally, customers will need your help during cash withdrawals, deposits, and when handling checks. If they have trouble accessing money from the ATM, you will address the issue.
Call Center Agent
Have you seen a business that lacks contact details? It’s a rare scenario since the owners know that the customer’s feedback is vital. The numbers provided are often different from personal contacts unless it’s a small establishment.
Call center agents or customer service representatives are usually found in firms such as telemarketing. They will handle inquiries and complaints from clients. They will also handle sales and billing through the phone. At times, they are required to conduct research on business-related issues and give a recommendation to the managers.
Front Desk Manager
This position is usually in the hospitality industry. The front desk manager ensures that the receptionists, the night auditors, and concierges are well trained. If his juniors persist in unprofessional behavior, he will have to answer to the top management.
He is also responsible for the scheduling of shifts for the staff. When clients complain of lost items or rude attendants, the front desk manager deals with the situation. Otherwise, the hotel’s reputation will be tarnished. The result? Huge losses.
Concierge
Upon arrival at a hotel, it’s the responsibility of a concierge to welcome the guests. He should receive and store luggage in the appropriate location. Other duties include making and confirming reservations, arranging for tours to scenic sites, and suggesting good places for activities such as recreation and dining. The visitors are largely dependent on him/her, especially if they are new to the area.
To be a successful concierge, be friendly and ensure you are conversant with basic computer skills. Also, get acquainted with popular hang-out spots that guests might enjoy during their stay.
Receptionist
He/She will be among the first people you’ll meet when you arrive in most offices. If someone is received well, a good impression of the company is created. What are a receptionist’s duties?
Greeting and welcoming visitors is the first thing to do. A warm smile puts the guests/visitors at ease and even the most irritated of clients might be calmed down on meeting such a person. They also receive phone calls and forward them to appropriate individuals, answer customer’s questions and ensure the reception area is neat and tidy.
Apart from being proficient in the use of office equipment, a receptionist needs to be a good time manager. They should also be approachable, organized, and proactive when dealing with problems.
Technical Support Specialist
Many businesses have entered the online market. Transactions have been simplified, making them fast and convenient. However, some terms and procedures might be confusing to clients and other employees. Senior citizens especially need help in navigating the internet.
Technical support engineers are the best to handle system-related difficulties. They provide answers to technical issues experienced by clients and guide them in the necessary procedure. They respond through emails, chat rooms, or phone calls.
They also give suggestions to the company regarding appropriate system changes that make applications more user-friendly. To prevent losses, troubleshooting should be done regularly. This job can be done in the office or remotely.
Client Services Manager
Customer loyalty is important for any business. The client services manager is the main link between the company and customers. What influential role do they have?
They will regularly inform clients of new projects that they might invest in. To increase sales, they persuade customers to upgrade their subscriptions. They will also schedule meetings, provide training to other employees, write contracts to prospective clients, and strengthen ties with long-term members.
The bottom line
With a diligent search, it might be possible to find suitable employment. Be more open-minded since rigidity might shut many doors. Customer support jobs are increasingly on-demand since many companies are looking for customer-oriented employees. These jobs are advantageous since training is for a short time and the minimum wage is good enough to settle your monthly bills.
As with any other job, skills are required for you to be a treasured employee. Communication and interpersonal skills can’t be overemphasized; they are very important. Experience gained in this sector can be applied in other professions, therefore, making you a holistic individual. All the best in finding your ideal job!