How To Land The BEST Internships In The Customer Service Industry

By Elizabeth Benu,

Are you a graduate purposed to venture into a career in the customer service industry? If you have no idea of how to land an internship opportunity here are few tips to equip you more about the industry and how to succeed in it.

Customer service industry is inclusive of sectors such as call centers, transport industry, airline industry, training and consultancy, hotels, banks, hospitals and security providers.

Speaking to Elizabeth Maingi, a Recruitment Consultant at Corporate Staffing Services, she says that for one to get into this industry one needs to have academic qualifications in various areas

She lists these areas as: Administration, Office Management, Customer Service, Communications, Business, Public Relations and International Relations

Ms Maingi confirms that there are specific skills that one should have to get into this industry.

She says that, “Skills such as excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills, basic computer knowledge and strong organizational skills are vital in this industry.”

“Additionally, interpersonal skills, good time management, analytical skills and an ability to work professionally under pressure are required,” explains Ms. Maingi.

She also adds that product/service knowledge of the organization will be an added advantage to the intern.

As an intern, Ms Maingi states that the basic duties one will perform are providing internal and external customer care support and handling clients’ complaints professionally.

“Understand that an internship in Customer Service is a good opportunity in your career that offers extensive knowledge on how to effectively manage people,” adds Ms. Maingi

What skills should you not leave out in your application for this internship? I probe further

Ms. Maingi says, “Mention your communication and interpersonal skills, that you are warm to approach and that you are presentable.”

She also adds that these will already create a picture of who you are in the employers mind.

What tips would you give job seekers who want to land an internship in this industry?

“First, I would advocate for placing a passport photo with a slight smile in your CV. It gives the employer a view of your visual appearance. Also ensure that you have an organized cover letter that makes sense to compliment your CV,” Ms Maingi advices.

She also emphasizes on the need to put your academic background in the CV.

“However, if you have an unrelated academic qualification and are  interest  in getting into customer service, apply in person and make sure you look the part,” she adds.

“When going for the interview be presentable and have a good background knowledge of the organization you wish to intern in. Also be well mannered because this is a sensitive and relational industry,” she further advices.

She sums up by saying, “You only have one chance to make a first impression; be warm, approachable and presentable to land this opportunity.”

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