How to become a Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and receive on-the-job training to learn the specific skills needed for the job. They should be good at communicating and interacting with people and should be adept at using computers.
Customer service representatives usually receive short-term on-the-job training, which typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks. Those who work in finance and insurance may need several months of training to learn complicated financial regulations.
Customer service representatives who provide information about finance and insurance may need a state license. Although licensing requirements vary by state, they usually include passing an exam. Some employers and organizations provide training for these exams.
Source: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
What skills help Customer Service Representatives find jobs?
- Automotive diagnostics
- Basic math
- Bilingual
- Cash handling
- Cashiering
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Customer support
- Data entry
- English
Career progression for Customer Service Representative
Education levels for Customer Service Representatives
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 66.8% |
| Associate's degree | 15.8% |
| Bachelor's degree | 14.9% |
| Master's degree | 1.8% |
| Middle school education | 0.5% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.1% |
| High school diploma or GED | 0.0% |
| Bachelor's degree | 0.0% |
| Bachelor's degree | 0.0% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $22,500 |
| 4 - 8 | $25,200 |
| 8 - 12 | $27,100 |
| 12 - 16 | $28,200 |
| 16 - 20 | $28,800 |
| 20 - 24 | $29,000 |
