Apprentice Customer Service

Apprentice Customer Service

Apprenticeship 18000 - 25000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Xafinity Consulting Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team to provide top-notch customer service and support clients with their needs.
  • Company: XPS Group, a leading consultancy in pensions and insurance, values your growth and ideas.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, 25 days holiday, and professional development support.
  • Other info: Diverse workplace with opportunities for volunteering and career advancement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant team while building a rewarding career in customer service.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, strong communication skills, and a proactive attitude.

The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.

At XPS, we don't just value the work you do - we value you. Your ambition, your ideas, your career goals and your life outside of work. Whether you're looking for your next challenge, greater flexibility, or a place where you can make a real impact, you'll find opportunities to thrive at XPS. We're built on collaboration, trust and expertise, giving our people the freedom to work their way, shape their path and be themselves. If you're looking for a career where you can grow, belong and make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

About XPS Group

XPS Group is a prominent and growing UK consultancy and administration firm within the pensions and insurance sectors. As a FTSE 250 company with over 2,000 employees, we leverage expertise alongside advanced technology to serve over 1,400 pension schemes and their sponsors. Our goal is to foster a workplace where diverse talents thrive. We have over 1,058 administration staff who cover a whole range of services from accountancy to systems development. On top of that, we are an award-winning organisation having topped the polls of many industry awards.

About the Role

The working week is Monday to Friday from 9:00 am until 5:15 pm (36.25 hours) with 1 hour off for lunch. Flexible working arrangements for this role will be considered and can be discussed at interview. This is an excellent opportunity to join our friendly teams. We service clients and members by performing a range of administration tasks including calculations, reports, speaking to members directly, project work, presenting to clients and much more. Our Member Connect team continues to grow and we are now looking for an outgoing Apprentice Customer Service Advisor to join our vibrant Newcastle office. This is an exciting opportunity that would most likely suit someone with a keen interest in a contact centre role or within customer services where customer care is of paramount importance. Our award winning pensions administration business puts scheme members at the heart of everything we do. Our services include scheme administration, first time outsourcing, member communications and scam protection.

Key Responsibilities

  • Handle a high volume of inbound calls in a professional and timely manner, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Understand customers' needs and provide appropriate solutions or alternatives to meet their requirements.
  • Accurately record and maintain customer information and interactions in a centralised database.
  • Always deliver first class customer service, maintaining a positive outlook.
  • Work closely with other business areas.

Due to the sensitive nature of the information we handle, all successful applicants must undergo and pass Non Police Personnel Vetting (NPPV). This includes criminal record and intelligence checks (PNC and PND), financial screening, identity verification, and-where required-background checks on close associates. Applicants must also have been resident in the UK for at least the past three years to enable the necessary vetting checks to be completed.

Your Profile

Essential

  • Grade B or 5 in English and Maths at GCSE or equivalent.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Excellent organisational and planning skills, with the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy in both written and numerical tasks.
  • Positive, flexible, and proactive approach to learning and work responsibilities.
  • Able to follow procedures, take ownership of tasks, and work effectively in a team.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to a career in pensions administration and continuous improvement.

Desirable

  • Previous work experience, ideally in a customer focussed environment.
  • Quick to learn and adapt to new systems and applications.

What We Offer

Enjoy a competitive salary, annual discretionary bonus, and 25 days' holiday with buy/sell flexibility. Benefits include pension matching, healthcare plans, life assurance, and retailer discounts. We support our team with a flexible benefits scheme, employee assistance, and a digital GP service. Participating in volunteer events is encouraged with paid volunteer days available. Referral bonuses are offered for introducing suitable candidates to XPS. Other benefits of the role include, but are not limited to:

  • Support for professional study (Award in Pensions Essentials) through the Pensions Management Institute.
  • Development of skills to build your career.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit applications via the Apply Now option or contact for more information.

Equal Opportunities Statement

XPS Group is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all candidates, irrespective of sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or belief. As a Disability Confident employer, we ensure accessible and supportive work settings for all employees.

Eligibility

Any employment offer made will be conditional upon you satisfying DBS Disclosure checks, Employment or educational references, satisfactory credit checks and eligibility to work in the UK before an offer can be made. XPS Group is not able to provide sponsorship to employees.

Apprentice Customer Service employer: Xafinity Consulting Ltd

At XPS, we prioritise your growth and well-being, offering a collaborative and flexible work environment that empowers you to shape your career while making a meaningful impact. As a remote Pensions Project Consultant, you'll enjoy competitive benefits, including a generous holiday allowance, healthcare plans, and opportunities for professional development, all within a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion. Join us in a role where your expertise in pensions can thrive, and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to excellence.

Xafinity Consulting Ltd

Contact Details:

Xafinity Consulting Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Apprentice Customer Service

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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd.

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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd. It’s all about getting your name out there and showing you’re keen to learn!

We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Customer Service

Strong Communication Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Customer Service
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Outlook
Organisational Skills

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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd.

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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd 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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd

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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd. 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 Xafinity Consulting Ltd 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!