What does a Customer Service Representative do?
customer service representative typically work for corporations as part of the customer service department. They help customers order and return products, answer questions about usage and assist consumers with assembling or repairing products by offering advice. By maintaining a professional, positive attitude when talking with customers in person, over the phone or by email, they can deescalate situations, aiding in improved customer retention rates.
They also handle customer complaints and provide discounts, free products or additional services to preserve customer loyalty. Serving as the face of the company, Customer Service Representatives can have a major impact on the overall consumer experience and customer satisfaction rates when they perform their job duties successfully.
Customer Service Representative skills and qualifications
To succeed in their roles, Customer Service Representatives need a variety of skills. Some qualifications that can indicate a quality candidate for your open position include:
- Interpersonal and customer service skills to ensure positive interactions with customers
- Analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose problems and recommend effective solutions
- Multitasking and organizational skills to work on multiple issues at one time
- Active listening and communication skills to handle patrons who may be upset
- Time-management skills to respond to customer emails, calls and web chat messages promptly
- Teamwork skills to collaborate with representatives and coworkers in other departments
- Ability to remain upright and stationary for long periods during a shift
- Technical skills to use voice-over-IP phones and customer records management, word processing, database, email and chat software programs
Customer Service Representative experience requirements
Because the position typically involves on-the-job training, entry-level Customer Service Representatives can start with no prior experience, especially if they have a degree in a relevant field. However, you may wish to prioritize candidates who have a few years of experience in a customer-facing role, such as working as a Cashier, Server or Sales Associate. For supervisory roles or a customer service position that involves some type of leadership responsibilities, such as a trainer, candidates with a few years of previous work history as a Customer Service Representative may be a better fit for your open position.
Customer Service Representative education and training requirements
There are typically no formal education requirements for Customer Service Representatives, as most new hires undergo on-the-job training to learn about the company’s products, policies and procedures. Some candidates may have an associate degree or higher, but work experience and skills are ultimately more important than education credentials for most positions.
In some cases, Customer Service Representatives may need to earn credentials before assisting clients. For example, Customer Service Representatives who work in finance or insurance may need a state license to sell products or provide advice to clients. If your business is in a regulated industry, you may want to consider only candidates who already have the necessary licensing or certification.
Customer Service Representative salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Customer Service Representative is $63,033 per year. Pay rates vary based on level of experience, education and geographic location.
Job description samples for similar positions
If the Customer Service Representative job description doesn’t suit your needs, view descriptions for these related professions:
- Customer Service Manager
- Sales Support Specialist
- Technical Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Specialist
Customer Service Representative FAQs
What is the difference between a Customer Service Representative and a Technical Support Representative?
Although both Customer Service Representatives and Technical Support Representatives help customers with questions and concerns, their focus differs. Customer Service Representatives typically receive customer feedback and answer questions to the best of their abilities. However, Technical Support Specialists have IT training, which helps them provide advanced expertise to customers in setting up and navigating electronic devices. Technical Support Specialists use their knowledge and device manuals to help customers troubleshoot problems with their devices and decide what to do moving forward.
What qualities make a good Customer Service Representative?
Patience is an important quality for a Customer Service Representative, as the position involves dealing with dissatisfied people. Individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and can adapt quickly to changing job duties are likely to excel in the role. Because policies and products may change over time, a willingness to learn is also beneficial.
Who does a Customer Service Representative report to?
A Customer Service Representative often reports to a Customer Service Supervisor or Team Leader. Customer service centers usually have several supervisors or team leaders who answer to a Customer Service Manager.