Important Hard Skills for Customer Service

Most positions in the customer service industry require the use of computers and the ability to type at a quick rate. For example, if you are a hotel reservation agent, you will be required to type all of the customer's information quickly in order to provide efficient service. Also, with the increased use of technology in all industries, it is beneficial to be familiar with it. Some restaurants are using touch screens to order and will need customer service staff that can work with the new technology and help customers use it as well.

It takes time and money to train new employees on software systems, which is why some companies look for candidates that already have these skills. Hotels are a great example, as many hotel brands may use a different software system that requires training for new employees. When they are hiring new candidates, they give preference to those who have experience with their software system.

Whether you are a server at a restaurant or a hotel front desk clerk, you have to manage your time well. Customers expect quick and efficient service. The ability to multitask is also needed. You may be handling several different tasks at one time so being able to juggle between them is necessary. For example, if you are a server in a restaurant, you have to be able to take the orders of multiple customers, send the orders to the kitchen, deliver the food to the correct tables, and provide customers with their appropriate bills.

Hard skills are tangible and teachable skills that can be measured. They can be found on your resumé and are typically what makes you qualified for the job. In the customer service field, there are several necessary hard skills that one must be proficient in. The first is having a knowledge of the field and how to sell a product or service. The second is typing and technology. Being able to type quickly and to use computers and advanced technology is necessary to provide efficient service. The third is understanding how to use the particular software system for your job. Lastly, being able to manage your time and multitask between different tasks is essential.