At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle customer queries via calls, emails, and social media in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Trafford Council, a vibrant and inclusive team dedicated to community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days of annual leave, flexible perks, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic work culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable customer service skills.
- Qualifications: Good spoken English, basic numeracy, and a willingness to learn are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 20000 £ per year.
We have exciting opportunities for 2 x Full Time Apprentice Customer Service Advisor (Level 2) to join our fast-paced, office-based Customer Contact Centre. This is a front-line role predominantly handling high volumes of inbound calls, with some emails and social media enquiries. You will confidently signpost customers and resolve complex queries at the first point of contact across a range of Council services, including Council Tax, Benefits, Planning, Elections, Adult Social Services, Blue Badge and Libraries.
We are seeking motivated individuals who are interested in developing a career in customer service and are committed to delivering a high standard of support to our residents and customers. You will have an excellent standard of spoken English, enabling you to listen carefully, understand customer needs, and respond clearly and professionally. You will be supported to develop the skills required to resolve enquiries at the first point of contact wherever possible. You will be approachable, empathetic and willing to learn. The ability to remain calm under pressure, work effectively as part of a team, and demonstrate a positive, can-do attitude is essential. You should be reliable, punctual and take ownership of your work. A basic level of numeracy and literacy is essential, alongside a willingness to develop these skills further as part of your apprenticeship programme.
In your application, please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the role profile. This should include:
- Your education and any relevant qualifications
- Any experience of customer service (this may include school, voluntary or part-time work)
- Your reasons for wanting to work for Trafford Council
Please ensure your application is written in your own words.
This advert may close early if we receive a high number of applications, so please apply as soon as possible. Basic DBS Check will be required. Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm (flexibility required to meet service needs).
For the full details of this opportunity, please refer to the role profile linked below. If you have any questions or would like an informal chat you can get in contact with the hiring managers.
Trafford is a vibrant, inclusive borough at the heart of Greater Manchester. Home to 235,000 residents, four thriving town centres, over 11,000 businesses, and 60+ parks and green spaces. We’re a place where community and opportunity meet.
We’re more than just a local authority; we’re a team of passionate people committed to making a real difference. We deliver essential services that matter, from education and social care to business support, licensing, libraries and leisure and much more. No matter what your role is with us, you will help us to create a borough where all our residents, businesses and communities thrive.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do. They shape how we work together, make decisions, and support each other every day. They help us create a workplace where everyone feels valued, heard, and inspired to do their best. If you share these values and want your work to have real purpose and impact, Trafford is the perfect place to grow your career.
Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a wide range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, development and work-life balance:
- Generous Leave: Start with 26 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), with options to carry over or buy extra days.
- Flexible Perks: Discounts on car leasing, cycle to work, home tech, plus family friendly policies and hybrid working.
- Invest in your future: Join our generous Local Government Pension Scheme for peace of mind.
- Grow with us: We’ll support your development at every stage! Through leadership programmes and access to specialist qualifications and personal coaching.
- Wellbeing First: Guided wellbeing walks and events like World Mental Health and National Fitness Day.
- Connect with us: Connect with colleagues through our staff forums or join our Let’s Talk events.
- Be Celebrated: For all your hard work, ideas and contributions through our annual Time to Shine event.
If offered a role, as a minimum we’ll need to verify your right to work in the UK, receive two satisfactory references, and medical check. Trafford Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a team shaping a better Trafford for our residents, businesses and communities then we’d love to receive an application from you. We want everyone to feel confident and supported throughout our recruitment process.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Service Advisor Apprentice in Trafford
✨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 Trafford 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 Trafford 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 Service Advisor Apprentice in Trafford
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 Trafford 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 Trafford 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 Trafford 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 Trafford 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 Trafford 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!
