How to Prepare for a Customer Service Job

Most people dread customer service jobs. Why? Because most people are rude to customer service representative and are scared to get the same kind of treatment. However, with a little determination, a different mindset and some practice, you can prepare yourself for the job.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Resume

Get in the Mindset

1. Realize that people will be angry with you often and may be rude or even physical with you.

2. Understand that they realistically know it is not your fault, but you are a representative for the company, and likely the highest up they will get. The manager or other representatives should not be called unless the customer is getting physical or they specifically say, "I want to see a manager."

3. Remember that this is just a part of your job. Don't take it personally. It happens to almost every customer service representative.

4. Watch salespeople when you shop; copy the things that they do that are successful.

5. Ask the salespeople what they do that works, and what they do that doesn't.

Brush up Your Skills

6. Know the company's rules. Customers used to always be right, but sometimes they aren't now.

7. Practice staying calm with grumpy family members or irritating sales clerks. If these aren't available, practice on anyone who annoys you.

8. Role-play with a friend.

Update Your Resume

9. Include any job where you performed customer service. Unless you are hidden and never talk to a customer, this is any job. Fast food, sales, retail and baby-sitting all count as customer service.

10. Highlight special tasks you performed. Managing a retail store or assisting in your boss's absence give you that extra something employers are looking for.

11. Ask former coworkers, clients and supervisors for positive references.

Tips & Warnings

• Never yell at, threaten or get physical with a customer. This is the fastest way to lose your job, as well as invite criminal charges and a lawsuit.