Customer Service Representatives
Interact with customers to provide basic or scripted information in response to routine inquiries about products and services. May handle and resolve general complaints. Excludes individuals whose duties are primarily installation, sales, repair, and technical support.
Common Job Titles
- Account Representative
- Customer Service Representative (CSR)
- Customer Service Specialist
- Member Services Representative (Member Services Rep)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- MindsetRespond to customer inquiries and concerns with empathy and professionalism across multiple communication channels including phone, email, and chat platforms.Proficient
- KnowledgeOperate customer relationship management (CRM) systems and multi-channel contact center software to document interactions, process transactions, and track service requests efficiently.Proficient
- MindsetBalance customer satisfaction goals with organizational policies and time constraints when managing multiple inquiries and resolving conflicts independently.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize daily workflow and prioritize customer service tasks in fast-paced call center or service desk environments to meet performance metrics.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply product and service knowledge to address routine customer questions using CRM software and knowledge bases while adhering to company scripts and policies.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze customer complaints and service issues to identify root causes and determine appropriate resolution pathways within established guidelines.Developing
- MindsetEngage with diverse customers demonstrating cultural sensitivity and active listening to build rapport and trust.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret customer needs and communication cues during high-volume interactions to provide accurate information and appropriate solutions.Developing
- KnowledgeApply problem-solving techniques to resolve general customer complaints by coordinating with supervisors and other departments when issues require escalation.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain product features, service procedures, and account information using clear, accessible language tailored to customer comprehension levels.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Customer Service Representatives (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,725,930
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $30,690. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,970. 50th percentile: U.S. $42,830. 75th percentile: U.S. $50,140. 90th percentile: U.S. $62,730. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $30,690 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $62,730 |
| Workers on average earn | $45,380 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.7/5
- English Language3.9/5
- Administration and Management3.5/5
- Sales and Marketing3.5/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Apple macOS
- Google Docs
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Kronos Workforce Timekeeper
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Teams
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Database
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- SAP software
- Salesforce software
- Slack
- Yardi software
- Zoom
Technology Skills
- ADP Workforce Now
- AS/400 Database
- Active Data Online WebChat
- Airtable
- Apple Keynote
- Applied Systems Vision
- Astute Solutions PowerCenter
- Austin Logistics CallSelect
Tools & Equipment
- Autodialing systems
- Automatic call distribution ACD system
- Calling line identification equipment
- Cash registers
- Desktop computers
- Dialed INTEGER identification systems DNIS
- Global positioning system GPS receivers
- Multi-line telephone systems