At a Glance
- Tasks: Support residents with financial assistance and improve customer experiences.
- Company: Gateshead Council, dedicated to thriving communities and essential services.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above required.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
Introduction
Gateshead Council is offering an exciting Apprentice opportunity within Customer Experience & Communications.
Gain valuable experience in either Benefits, supporting Housing Benefit and Council Tax claims, or Financial Assessments, helping deliver essential financial support and services to vulnerable residents.
About the Employer
Gateshead is a great place to live, work and visit and Gateshead Council has a clear focus on helping communities to thrive.
Customer Experience and Communications operates at the very core of the Council’s operations, working with services to support delivery of the Council priorities.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Council’s Benefits and Assessments Team within Corporate Resources.
- What You’ll Do
- Helping residents access financial assistance and support with the cost of living
- Assisting with financial assessments and care related payments
- Helping to improve digital access and customer journeys
- Learning to use digital tools and systems to deliver efficient service
Training outcome progression for the right candidate.
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Team working
Qualifications
- Essential - GCSE English - 4
- Essential - GCSE Maths - 4
- Course Information
Course: Business administrator (level 3) Level: 3 Route: Business and administration Apprenticeship Level: Advanced
- Working Arrangements
- Working Week: Monday‑Thursday 08:45‑17:00
- Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months
- Number of Positions Available: 3
- Training Provider: GATESHEAD COUNCIL
This employer is part of the Disability Confident scheme, committed to employing disabled people.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Experience & Communications apprentice in Gateshead
✨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 Gateshead Council.
✨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 Gateshead Council. It’s all about getting your name out there and showing you’re keen to learn!
We think you need these skills to ace Customer Experience & Communications apprentice in Gateshead
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 Gateshead Council.
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 Gateshead Council 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 Gateshead Council
✨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 Gateshead Council. 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 Gateshead Council 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!
