A customer service manager manages the customer service operations, supervising a team of customer service representatives, which deals directly with customers and is the first point of contact. When the customer issue remains unresolved or the problem escalates, then the customer service manager is called upon to intervene. Customer services managers often are responsible for training customer service representatives and evaluating their ongoing performances and activities. A customer service manager develops and implements processes and procedures to improve operational efficiency, and develops, tracks and reports key performance measurements for the unit. Customer service managers must have the skills necessary to analyze statistical data. Often, a customer service manager oversees cross functional work areas targeted to resolve issues raised by customers. Because they frequently communicate with customers via phone, e-mail/letters, or face-to-face, customer service managers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. On-the-job training usually is required, and customer service managers typically must work at lower levels of the customer service department prior to promotion to a managerial position. Many companies require possession of a bachelor’s degree, though some only require relevant experience. The work environment can vary, but customer service managers typically work in an office environment, usually in the customer service center of a company. Sometimes, they work behind a counter, with in-person interaction with customers. The job can sometimes be stressful, since customers can be angry or upset with service. Customer service managers must have de-escalation skills that will help them handle irate customers. Additionally, customer service managers must have excellent personnel management abilities that will help in the supervision of lower-level staff.
Customer Service Manager Tasks
- Develops, tracks and reports key performance measurements for the unit.
- Develops and implements process and procedures to improve operational efficiency.
- Oversees cross functional work areas targeted to resolve issues raised by customers.
- Manages the customer service operations, which deals directly with customers and is the first point of contact.