At a Glance
- Tasks: Support customers through various channels while gaining hands-on experience in a contact centre.
- Company: Join the Pension Protection Fund, a leader in retirement security with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Earn £23,500, enjoy hybrid working, and receive a Civil Service Pension.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse talent and offers excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in customer service with a nationally recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 23500 - 23500 £ per year.
Location: Croydon office with hybrid working
Salary: £23,500 per annum plus Civil Service Pension
Full-Time, 18 month FTC
At the Pension Protection Fund (PPF), we provide security in retirement for our members and millions of people throughout the UK who belong to defined benefit (DB) pension schemes. Through the PPF and Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS), we compensate members for their pensions after the employer funding their pension becomes insolvent. In total, we look after over 400,000 members across the PPF and FAS. With over £30 billion in assets under management, our investments support long-term economic growth across the UK.
We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Contact Centre team as a Trainee Contact Centre Advisor within an apprenticeship. This is an excellent opportunity to begin a career in customer service while working towards the Customer Service Practitioner Apprenticeship (Level 2).
As part of this programme, you will gain hands-on experience supporting our members and developing the skills needed to deliver an excellent customer experience. Throughout the apprenticeship, you will support the team by responding to customer enquiries across a range of channels, including telephone, email and written correspondence. You will provide clear and accurate information, ensuring customers are treated fairly, courteously and with empathy at all times.
You will learn how to handle enquiries efficiently and consistently, maintain accurate records and work in line with all PPF policies, procedures and standards. This role will help you develop the confidence and capability to put customers at the heart of everything you do.
We are looking for someone who is eager to start their career or change their career and is motivated to learn and develop. You will have a positive attitude, a strong willingness to build new skills and a genuine interest in customer service. You should be reliable, professional and able to work well as part of a team, with good communication skills and a desire to provide a helpful and supportive service. No prior experience is required; just commitment, enthusiasm and a proactive approach to learning.
In return, you will gain a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification, valuable practical experience in a professional contact centre environment and ongoing support from experienced colleagues. This is a great opportunity to build a strong foundation for a long-term career.
Our Croydon office is just across the road from East Croydon station, which is around 15 minutes from Victoria or London Bridge, 10 minutes from Clapham Junction or half an hour from St Pancras.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and actively encourage applications from people with disabilities. We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. We are happy to discuss your needs and ensure you have the support required. We embrace diverse talent welcoming people with different beliefs, backgrounds and ways of working. Whatever your background, and however you identify, you'll be welcome here.
Role closes: 8th July
Locations
Trainee Contact Centre Advisor Apprenticeship in Croydon, Surrey employer: Ppf
At the Pension Protection Fund (PPF), we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our Croydon office provides a dynamic environment where you can kickstart your career as a Trainee Contact Centre Advisor while working towards a nationally recognised qualification, all within a team that values diversity and collaboration. With competitive benefits, including a Civil Service Pension and ongoing training opportunities, we are dedicated to helping you build a rewarding career in customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Contact Centre Advisor Apprenticeship in Croydon, Surrey
✨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 Ppf.
✨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 Ppf. It’s all about getting your name out there and showing you’re keen to learn!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Contact Centre Advisor Apprenticeship in Croydon, Surrey
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 Ppf.
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 Ppf 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 Ppf
✨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 Ppf. 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 Ppf 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!
