Call centre operator

Depending on your role, you could:

• answer calls, emails and web chat enquiries from customers
• make telesales and market research calls to new and existing customers
• deal with customer orders, card payments, enquiries and complaints
• advise about products and services
• support customers to fix computer problems
• offer counselling, welfare and benefits advice, legal information or help with careers
• update customers' records on computer databases

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

With experience and training, you could progress to team leader or manager.

Depending on your interests and experience, you could also move into human resources, resource planning, marketing and training.