What I've learned in my Customer Service position

Hi everyone!

Today I'll be talking about the things I've learned in my Customer Service position. I currently work at the Sheridan Student Union and have had this job since summer 2018. I am very fortunate to obtain this job as I believe it is the ideal job for a student to have while studying. At this position, I have learned many interpersonal skills such as communicating and explaining policies and rules to students. Whenever a student has a question regarding clubs, events, marketing, and student health care plans, I am the one to answer all their questions.

It is important for me to answer everyone's questions in a professional manner as I am representing the school and the student union. Before obtaining this position, I was given training from the previous customer service representatives.

I have learned to remain clam in tense situations. This is important because once you remain calm then the other person will automatically revert to calming themselves down. There have been instances where a student was frustrated and they were projecting their anger on me. In this situation, I also quickly realized to not take anger and frustration personally. Some people do not know how to control their anger and so they release their anger on just anybody in front of them. I learned to stay calm and understand what they are trying to say. Remember, you cannot fight fire with fire!

Another skill I obtained from this position is translating and explaining difficult concepts or rules to students. I think this is a good skill to obtain as this will help me a lot in life. I now have the ability to simplify complex rules and regulations to students in order for them to understand quickly. This gives me the skill to teach to others as I have a passion for teaching. I hold a lot of respect for teachers as their role is very noble. It allows students to become more knowledgeable and ultimately successful in life.

So these are the skills I have obtained from a customer service position. If you'd like to find a job to sharpen your communication skills, I highly advise getting a customer service position. Here, you will  have many opportunities to boldly present yourself and to speak to people throughout your day. If you are shy and want to come out of your shell, again this will be the best job to start with as it will allow you to be confident and become a natural speaker!