In any organization, customer service is a necessity, whether it is in a B2B or B2C working environment. In the UK, 70 percent of job roles are customer-facing and, in a time where the search for talent is a constant challenge, employees who have customer service qualifications will be of huge value to organizations.
What is Customer Service?
Service is complex. It revolves around how organizations meet customer expectations, how easy they are to do business with and the extent to which they get things right, first time. With this in mind customer service qualifications can ensure individuals have specific skills which focus on emotional intelligence and commercial acumen, as well as the ability to understand and use technology flexibly. That’s why, with a customer service qualification, individuals are more likely to be able to deliver a high standard of service and help increase customer numbers through repeat business.
The Benefits
A customer service qualification can also boost employability. A recent report, published by the Commission for Employment and Skills, identifies customer handling skills as one of the leading skills gaps in the economy. 41 per cent of companies in England and a further 51 per cent in Scotland discovered customer service skills is a major skills gap. In addition, the Institute of Customer Services has found that 53 percent of managers are looking for people with the ‘right level of customer service skills’, fearing that their absence will affect business performance. It means there is an opportunity for qualified individuals to meet the demands of the labour market.
Bridging The Gap
Customer service is also a vital component of the UK economy, as 78 per cent of UK GDP is generated through the service sector. It means that the skills obtained through a customer service qualification are sought after because they are transferable across a wide range of industries which would also boost career progression as every role is customer facing.
The Future
To secure a future that promotes growth, it has never been more important to focus on customer service. The skills that are gained from relevant qualifications are vital as customer needs are evolving and becoming far more demanding.
Quite simply, a customer service qualification would boost your employability, as it not only shows commitment, but it ensures innate contribution to the economy. All staff members will face a customer at some point in their working life, and knowing how to deal with any scenario, and proving to a customer that they are willing to go above and beyond to meet their ever-changing needs, will ultimately boost your career.
