At a Glance
- Tasks: Support customers via phone, webchat, and email while learning essential skills.
- Company: Join British Gas, a leader in creating a greener future.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and gain a Level 3 qualification.
- Other info: Enjoy hybrid working after training and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while kickstarting your career in customer service.
- Qualifications: Positive attitude, communication skills, and some customer-facing experience.
The predicted salary is between 18995 - 30044 £ per year.
We are Centrica! We're so much more than an energy company. We're a family of brands revolutionising a cleaner, greener future. Working here is #MoreThanACareer - we're powered by purpose. Together we can make an impact that will truly change tomorrow. Whether you're developing cutting-edge green tech, helping customers on the front line or simplifying operations behind the scenes. Your work here isn't just a job; it's a mission. We all play a vital role in energising a greener, fairer future.
Start your career with purpose - Earn while you learn. At British Gas Business, we support the organisations that keep the UK running. As a Customer Service Apprentice, you'll help our customers when they need us most while building the skills for a long-term career. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, you'll gain a Level 3 Customer Service Specialist qualification.
The apprenticeship programme takes 18 months to complete and will consist of 20% Off-The-Job, dedicated, structured learning with 80% on-the-job call taking. You'll receive support from our external training partner Babington along with support from a dedicated mentor and your wider team.
Apprenticeship Salary: £18,995, rising to £30,044 following the successful completion of the apprenticeship.
Contract: Permanent
Location: British Gas, Penman Way, Grove Park, Leicester, LE19 1SZ
Working Style: Up to 8 weeks of office-based training, comprising 4 weeks of formal training followed by 4 weeks of supported consolidation. Once competency in the role has been achieved, employees will have the opportunity to move to a hybrid working arrangement, typically involving 2 days per month in the office.
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday (8am - 6pm)
What you'll be doing:
- Supporting customers via phone, webchat and email
- Listening, understanding and resolving queries with empathy
- Managing your own caseload with support from your team
- Learning to use systems and processes to find the right solutions
- Working towards a Level 3 Customer Service Specialist qualification alongside your role
What you will bring:
- Some experience in a customer-facing role (e.g. retail, hospitality, part-time or Saturday jobs)
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn new skills
- Clear, friendly communication skills
- Confidence using systems or digital tools
- Good organisation and time management
Experience & Knowledge: This apprenticeship is designed for individuals who have little or no experience within a contact centre environment. It may not be suitable if you already have significant experience working in a contact centre or a similar customer service role, as the programme focuses on developing core, entry-level capabilities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Standard government funding requirement, apprenticeship eligibility: Apprentices must be aged 16 or over and have the legal right to work in England
- Learners must have lived in the UK/EEA for at least 3 years prior to starting the apprenticeship
- For non-UK nationals, an appropriate visa is required and must permit full work and training
- The valid visa must cover the full duration of the apprenticeship programme
British Gas Business - Customer Service Apprentice - Leicester employer: Centrica
At Centrica, we pride ourselves on being more than just an energy company; we are a community dedicated to creating a sustainable future. As a Customer Service Apprentice in Leicester, you'll not only earn while you learn but also receive comprehensive support from mentors and structured training, ensuring your growth within a vibrant work culture that values purpose and impact. With opportunities for hybrid working and a clear pathway to a Level 3 qualification, this role is perfect for those looking to kickstart a meaningful career in customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land British Gas Business - Customer Service Apprentice - Leicester
✨Get to Know Your Local Businesses
For an apprenticeship in customer support, don’t hesitate to pop into local shops or businesses. They might not have job postings up, but often they’re looking for eager apprentices who can learn on the job. Approach them with confidence and express your interest.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Dive into online forums and communities focused on customer support. Places like Reddit or specific Facebook groups are goldmines for advice and networking. You never know who might be looking for an apprentice or have insider tips about openings at places like Centrica.
✨Tap Into Your School’s Resources
Make sure to use your school’s career services. They often have connections with companies looking for apprentices, which can give you a head start. Plus, they can help you polish your interview skills to shine during those crucial moments.
✨Show Your Passion Online
Create a simple portfolio showcasing any relevant experience, even if it's just customer service experience from part-time gigs. Share it on platforms like LinkedIn to make yourself more visible to employers like Centrica. It’s all about getting your name out there and showing you’re keen to learn!
We think you need these skills to ace British Gas Business - Customer Service Apprentice - Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your communication skills!:In customer support, being able to communicate clearly and effectively is key. When writing your application, make sure to highlight any relevant experience where you've had to support or assist others, whether that's in a job, volunteering, or even in school projects. We want to see how you express yourself and ensure that your enthusiasm comes through!
Tailor your CV to the support role:Your CV should reflect skills that are essential for customer support, like patience, problem-solving, and empathy. Highlight any instances where you've handled difficult situations or resolved conflicts, even if they're not from a formal job. This is your chance to prove that you have the right mindset for an apprenticeship with us at Centrica.
Include relevant coursework or certifications:If you've taken any courses related to customer service or communications, shout about them! This could be anything from online courses to workshops. Certifications show us you're serious about getting into the field and help us see your commitment to learning more in your apprenticeship.
Express your willingness to learn:Since this is an apprenticeship, showing that you’re eager to learn and grow is really important. In your cover letter, share specific reasons why you want to join Centrica and how you're looking forward to gaining hands-on experience in customer support. We love candidates who are enthusiastic and ready to dive into the learning process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Centrica
✨Mastering Communication Skills
As a customer support apprentice, showcasing your verbal and written communication skills is essential. Think about past experiences where you've had to resolve issues or clarify misunderstandings – be ready to discuss these during your interview. Remember, it's all about demonstrating your ability to empathise with customers and provide effective solutions.
✨Brush Up on Product Knowledge
Get familiar with the products or services offered by Centrica. Being knowledgeable about what they sell not only shows your interest but also helps you answer possible technical questions about how you’d assist customers. Prepare to discuss how you would approach learning about new products and your strategy for staying updated.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect interviewers to throw some real-life scenarios at you. Prepare for questions about how to handle difficult customers or complaints. They want to see how well you can think on your feet and apply your customer service skills in challenging situations. Try role-playing with a friend to feel more prepared!
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Since you’re applying for an apprenticeship, the hiring team at Centrica will be looking for your motivation to learn and grow. Be ready to express your eagerness to absorb knowledge from seasoned professionals and how you plan to contribute to the team's success. Show them that you're not just looking for a job, but a pathway to build your skills!
