The customer service specialist is a ‘professional’ for direct customer support within all sectors and organisation types. They are an advocate of Customer Service who acts as a referral point for dealing with more complex or technical customer requests, complaints, and queries.
Often an escalation point for complicated or ongoing customer problems, they are experts in organisation’s products and/or services, sharing knowledge with their wider team and colleagues.
Customer service specialist are aware of the importance of balancing customer requirements with those of the organisation. They will actively work towards demonstrate a cost-conscious mind-set when meeting customer and the business needs. They utilise both organisational and generic IT systems to carry out their role with an awareness of other digital technologies.
Potential Job Roles
A customer service specialist can work in a variety of different environments, including:
- Receptionist
- Retail outlet
- Shop Supervisor
- Customer service-based administrator
- Animal based businesses such as dog groomers, zoo.
Course Content
The Customer Service Specialist comprises three main sections of knowledge, skills and behaviours. Some examples of the types of activities undertaken are below.
- Maintain a positive relationship even when you are unable to deliver the customer’s expected outcome.
- Manage challenging and complicated situations within your level of authority.
- Understand and critically evaluate the possible journeys of your customers, including challenges and the end-to-end experience
- Use precise explanations, provide options and solutions to influence and help customers make choices and agree on the next steps.
- Analyse your customer types to identify or anticipate their potential needs and expectations when providing your service.
- Share knowledge and experience with others to support colleague development.
- Proactively keep your service, industry and best practice knowledge and skills up-to-date.
For further information on course content click here.
Delivery Method
The Customer Service Specialist will be delivered remotely through systems like Microsoft Teams. There is always help and support available by both telephone and email. There is the opportunity for some face-to-face visits, depending on the situation. The apprenticeship will finish with an End Point Assessment (EPA) assessed by an Independent External Assessor (IEPA). The EPA is sector specific and may involve practical assessments, written tests, professional discussions and review of evidence.
Expected Duration
Between 14 and 17 months.