Would you lie to a customer if it was best for the company?

"As long as I am in accordance with company and legal guidelines, I would do what is best for the company and try to effectively solve any issues that may arise."

This is a tricky question. You do not want to be automatically tagged as dishonest however; in the customer service industry, some companies have policies in place to prevent unauthorized release of information. A safe answer would go like this, "As long as I am in accordance with company and legal guidelines, I would do what is best for the company and try to effectively solve any issues that may arise."

"I would stick to company policy and legal guidelines while still doing my best to assist the customer."

"No, I wouldn't lie, but I would follow company policy regarding the release of information and I would try to solve the problem as best I could without lying."

Describe for me a time when you failed at customer service.

"At my last role, I was an usher at a local movie theatre and a customer complained that the picture wasn't in the correct screen ratio for the previews. The movie started at the point when they came to complain, so I apologized and rushed upstairs to the projector room to correct the issue. Later on, they complained to corporate and said I should have done more. I agreed, I should have stayed after the movie ended and apologized again to the patron and if they were still unhappy offered them free tickets to their next visit."

Everyone has had a situation in which a customer service interaction did not go as planned. Try to think of a situation that isn't too severe or the consequences weren't vast. If you tell the interviewer, you have never had a poor experience with a customer, then chances are you are not telling the truth.Here is an interview answer example: "At my last role, I was an usher at a local movie theatre and a customer complained that the picture wasn't in the correct screen ratio for the previews. The movie started at the point when they came to complain, so I apologized and rushed upstairs to the projector room to correct the issue. Later on, they complained to corporate and said I should have done more. I agreed, I should have stayed after the movie ended and apologized again to the patron and if they were still unhappy offered them free tickets to their next visit."

In what ways could you improve as a customer service agent?

"I'd use every opportunity I have to obtain customer feedback. Using the data, I'd be able to address issues faster and anticipate customer needs. I'd like to get to the point where I can predict what the customer needs/wants and provide the service or support immediately."

Being self-aware is not a trait everyone possesses. The recruiter would be happy to know that you're conscious of both your strengths and areas for improvement Also, it doesn't hurt to show that you've already thought of how to do better. Try to avoid, not saying there isn't room for improvement as that will look unfavorable towards yourself.

"I think I am always able to improve. At my last position, we were able to listen to recordings of our customer interactions. This helped tremendously as I was able to see how my tone was with each customer. I was able to improve upon that greatly, but I still think there is room for improvement there."

"There is always room for improvement, I have found in the past that listening to some of my calls has helped me see how my tone affects a customer's reaction, this has helped a lot with call management."

When have you provided excellent customer support?

"A customer had called, asking about one of our products. After I described the product to her, I then proceeded to locate a store nearest to her location. I checked if there was stock available and let her know who to look for at the store. The customer thanked me gladly for going the extra mile for her convenience."

Come prepared with a few examples where you have provided excellent customer support and be prepared to give them to the interviewer. Almost all interviewers will ask a form of this question throughout your interview. They may even ask this question in multiple ways, so it's good to have a few examples to provide for the interviewer.Here is an interview answer example: "A customer had called, asking about one of our products. After I described the product to her, I then proceeded to locate a store nearest to her location. I checked if there was stock available and let her know who to look for at the store. The customer thanked me gladly for going the extra mile for her convenience."

How would you define really great customer support?

"Identifying the customer's needs is the first step to great customer service. Once I understand their needs and wants, I can assist them much better. Once I know I can assist a customer, I do so with a positive attitude. I always want to exceed a customers expectation when I can!"

The interviewer wants to know you understand basic customer service. This is a great time to exceed any interviewers expectations by giving a great definition of customer service. Display how you understand customer service and what it means to go above and beyond for the customer. You can also give a specific example of a time you gave excellent customer service!Here is an interview answer example: "Identifying the customer's needs is the first step to great customer service. Once I understand their needs and wants, I can assist them much better. Once I know I can assist a customer, I do so with a positive attitude. I always want to exceed a customers expectation when I can!"

"It's about meeting customer needs. Pay attention to them. Be gentle yet firm when handling difficult customers. Act positively."

"Identifying their needs takes priority and then providing the best service possible. Once I understand their needs I can assist with a positive attitude and I always want to exceed customer expectations. Identifying the customer's needs is the first step to great customer service. Once I understand their needs and wants, I can assist them much better. Once I know I can assist a customer, I do so with a positive attitude. I always want to exceed a customer's expectation when I can."

"Great customer support means exceeding the customer's expectations and doing that with a smile and a good attitude. The first step is to find out what the customer needs by talking and listening actively and repeating back to the customer what they said to ensure understanding. Then, with a positive attitude, taking the steps that need to be accomplished in order to fulfill their needs."

"Great customer support is listening to the customer's complaints, identifying the issues, showing empathy, resolving the problem within the shortest possible time, actively following up with customers to ensure customer satisfaction, and taking feedback from customers to improve customers' experience."

Tell me about a time when you turned around a situation wherein a customer that was angry became a customer that was very happy with the results.

"I had once encountered a very angry customer who called about a defective product. My response went like this: 'I'm so sorry about that, that's very disappointing! We always make sure our products arrive correctly so I would be happy to send you a new one!'. The customer was glad that their concern was addressed as soon as possible."

Not every customer interaction turns out to be a success, but most of them should be. You should have plenty of success stories to share with the interviewer. Here is an interview answer example: "I had once encountered a very angry customer who called about a defective product. My response went like this: 'I'm so sorry about that, that's very disappointing! We always make sure our products arrive correctly so I would be happy to send you a new one!'. The customer was glad that their concern was addressed as soon as possible."

"Again, going to have to go back to my recent unemployment position. An elderly lady had been trying for months to complete the ID verification process, she was frustrated with the entire process and the time it was taking to resolve the issue on her claim. She had managed to complete it a few weeks earlier but the control preventing her from receiving her benefits was still on the account. I was able to finalize the ID issue and release her payments to her. She went from being very angry with DOL and the process to almost tears of joy with the resolution."

If a customer says you are taking too long to solve the issue, what do you do?

"First of all, I'd ensure the customer that their concern had been addressed promptly. Aside from issuing a sincere apology, I'd also do my best to explain the reason for delay. To make the customer feel that they are a priority, I'd give them updates every now and then regarding their request."

Sometimes, the delay in providing service isn't even your fault. It could be the fault of the system, the IT guys, phone issues, etc. It's how you respond to the customer that's a point of issue for the recruiter. Your answer could go like this, "First of all, I'd ensure the customer that their concern had been addressed promptly. Aside from issuing a sincere apology, I'd also do my best to explain the reason for delay. To make the customer feel that they are a priority, I'd give them updates every now and then regarding their request."

"I would first apologize and try to explain my process so that they will understand the delay. So they continue to feel they are my priority, I would give them updates and assure them that I am working on their issue."

"I apologize sincerely for the delay and let them know that I am going to do all that I can in order to solve the issues quickly as possible. I like to give them an estimate of how long I think it will take if I'm able and as we're working through the problem I give them updates to let them know where we're at and what is going on. For instance, if the problem is that the customer needs to speak with another department, If the company allows, I stay on the line with them until I'm able to do a warm transfer and connect them with a real person. I do that because I don't want him to feel like they've just been placed on hold."

"I would apologize and reassure the customer that the problem will be resolved as quickly as possible."

How do you respond when you do not know the answer to a question?

"I believe that honesty would be the best answer. I'd sincerely apologize and then reassure the customer that I'll be transferring them to someone who can provide an answer to their query. Or if company policy dictates, I will personally call a specialist and talk with them myself to get the answer for the customer."

Nobody's perfect and nobody knows the answer to every question. Of course, tell the recruiter that you'd do your best to master info relevant to your role, but for the instances that you're not ready with an answer, you'd take responsibility. Also, you will seek out the correct information for the customer but you may have to consult with management or a technical specialist.

"Honestly, if I do not know the answer I will advise my customer truthfully and then research to see if I can find the answer. If I am unable to assist or get assistance in order to help the customer I would transfer them to someone who can."

"If I am not sure of the answer I would tell the Customer I would have to look it up. I would ask more questions to be sure I have a proper understanding of the client's complaint. If I am still unable to answer after this, then I would redirect the customer to the department that is sure would have a proper answer to the customer's queries."

If a customer demands to speak to a manager, what do you do?

"Before forwarding any concerns to management, I'd make sure first that I did my best to solve the issue on my level. I'd apologize to the customer if he/she was not satisfied before escalating the situation to my boss."

This could happen to anyone, and it doesn't necessarily mean that you've done something wrong. However, your manager's time shouldn't be wasted with petty concerns, so make sure you've done everything on your level before escalation. A good answer would go like this, "Before forwarding any concerns to management, I'd make sure first that I did my best to solve the issue on my level. I'd apologize to the customer if he/she was not satisfied before escalating the situation to my boss."

"I'd make sure first that I did my best to solve the issue on my level. I'd apologize to the customer if he/she was not satisfied before escalating the situation to a manager."

Why are you the best fit for this job?

"I feel that I am the strongest candidate for the job because I bring everything that you are looking for in your next employee. I believe my communication skills are my best asset, I thoroughly enjoy pleasing customers, and I have experience using the customer service software you have described in your job posting. In addition to possessing these qualities, I have an excellent track record as a customer service representative which gives me a running start at this job."

This is a great time to match the qualities that you have with the qualities they have requested in their job posting or internal job description. If you haven't done so already, re-read the job description and requirements with the job posting you applied to. If the job posting has comments like, 'Must be a great communicator'. You will want to talk about your communication skills with the interviewer.

"I feel that I am the strongest candidate for the job because I bring everything that you are looking for in your next employee. I believe my communication skills are my best asset, and I thoroughly enjoy pleasing customers. In addition to possessing these qualities, I have an excellent track record as a customer service representative, which gives me a head start at this job. My attitude and adaptability, along with my prior experience and skill set, make me a great fit for this position and an asset to the company."

Where do you expect your performance to be after three months on the job?

"I've always been a quick learner, so one month is good enough for me to learn the ropes. I believe in giving my all in whatever I do so I can assure that you that I'll be at my best at my third month."

Usually, a lot of time, effort, and resources are put into training new hires. Most likely, the recruiter is trying to determine if you're worth all the fuss. Your answer should show that you'd be an asset to the team, not a liability. "I've always been a quick learner, so one month is good enough for me to learn the ropes. I believe in giving my all in whatever I do so I can assure that you that I'll be at my best at my third month."

"After three months on the job, I see myself having created rapport with my customers, know their needs, and wants in advance and effectively execute queries in the least time possible."

"I expect to be amongst your best employees. I pride myself on performing at a high standard to benefit both myself and the company. Being a quick learner allows me to excel and meet this goal."

What past experiences do you have turning cancellations back into customers?

"At my previous job at a call center, I employed a certain strategy to get back clients. Using data from exit surveys and follow-up calls, I'd determine what made the customer cancel their subscription. I'd then get in touch with the customer again and promote the aspect of the product they were looking for e.g. upgrades, discounts, new features."

The recruiter is looking for someone who'd be a great addition to the organization not only by producing results but also by increasing its client base. Having an excellent track record for reeling in lost customers will give you an edge.

"My experience does not include turning cancellations back into customers due to the nature of my specific jobs. My experience is in manufacturing, travel, and unemployment, which don't involve cancellations."

"In my previous role, as part of our reinstatement strategy, I spooled out the list of customers who had not renewed their policies in the last two years. There was an interesting case of a client who was a regular with us but had not renewed in a while, I probed further and decided to give him a call. From the call, I discovered that the client was not particularly happy with the rates charged, coupled with the fact that he had been loyal to us for a while, I escalated this finding to my line manager and got approval for reduced rates, and he got an extra concession for any referral made. This was communicated to the client and he was excited. He immediately made a payment on the new rates and his policy was reinstated."

Being in customer service is not the most exciting career, how would you make it fun?

"I can see why some might find a job in customer service boring but I think that getting to talk to different people and handling a variety of concerns is interesting. I've always been a social butterfly so listening to people's problems and finding a way to solve them would be a great job for me."

This can be a trick question, as the interviewer may be testing you, whether you respond in agreement or disagreement. You don't see your role as boring, you've got the right mindset! Show the recruiter that your job's not a chore for you and that you actually enjoy what you're doing.

"I understand how some might not find customer service exciting, but I do. I love being able to talk to all kinds of different people every day and finding the best way to help them. Customer service is a great job for me because I love finding ways to solve problems."

Why do you want a job in customer service?

"I really enjoy the interaction with people and find no problem answering even the most trivial questions. I get a deep sense of satisfaction when solving problems or helping customers out in one way or another. I've always been a social and outgoing person so a job that lets me talk to and help people is perfect for me."

The interviewer wants to know why you've chosen this career as that could be an indicator of your dedication to the job. Your answer should be a display of your passion in helping customers.Here is an interview answer example: "I really enjoy the interaction with people and find no problem answering even the most trivial questions. I get a deep sense of satisfaction when solving problems or helping customers out in one way or another. I've always been a social and outgoing person so a job that lets me talk to and help people is perfect for me."

"I enjoy the interaction with people and have no problem answering even the most trivial questions. I get a deep sense of satisfaction solving problems or helping customers. I've always been a social and outgoing person, so a job that lets me talk to and help people is perfect for me."

"I have always loved interacting with people in different spheres of life. I am always happy to assist with challenges faced by others, in this way it gives me a source of satisfaction knowing that am able to lighten people's burdens by sharing experiences with them. It also makes me a better person because I learn from other people's experiences too. So a job in customer service would be an idle fit for me."

We expect our employees to answer phone calls throughout the day and log 4 hours of call time, can you handle that?

"Absolutely, I'm confident that I'd be able to handle all the tasks assigned to me."

You should be able to convince the recruiter that you're the best fit for the job by being confident about your ability to handle all aspects of the job; including stressful situations and unexpected problems. Answer with conviction!"Absolutely, I'm confident that I'd be able to handle all the tasks assigned to me."

"Yes; my background is in call center environments, and I am used to handling a high volume of calls each day with speed and accuracy."

If a major product was recalled and our call center employees had to stay overtime, how would you react?

"I'm reasonably flexible and if business needs are such that it would be necessary for me to worker longer hours then I would certainly be prepared to do so."

The recruiter is trying to gauge your flexibility and dedication to the job. Be honest about your stance on work-life balance, but keep in mind that you need to prove your worth at this point, as long as conditions are reasonable of course.Here is an interview answer example: "I'm reasonably flexible and if business needs are such that it would be necessary for me to worker longer hours then I would certainly be prepared to do so."

"With some notice, I would stay as long as necessary in order to help resolve the issue for both the company and the customers as quickly as possible."

Give me an example, outside of a call center, where you have pleased a customer?

"One of my summer jobs was at a department store. My job as a personal shopper was to assist a customer from the moment she arrives to the checkout at the counter. Given the high volume of shoppers, messed up clothing piles, and packed fitting rooms, it was a bit of a struggle. Nevertheless, I did my job diligently and was rewarded by my customer asking for me every time she shopped at the store."

If you're good at your job even outside of your normal work environment, that's a big deal. It shows that you're consistently a great worker and lets the recruiter know that you're sincere about providing service to customers. Your example could be from your internship, a part time job, or simply you helping out.

"During a Walmart visit, there was a shopper that was unable to get to the item she needed on a high shelf, I got the items down for her and assisted her with the rest of her shopping and getting her through check out."

What did you like most about your previous customer service position?

"Customers called in with a technical issue, and within my department, we were typically able to fix the customers problem right then and there! It was a pleasure making a customer's day just by doing my job."

If an interviewer asks this question, this is a great opportunity to discuss how impactful your previous work with customer service was. I would recommend avoiding an answer that highlights company perks and focus your answer on why the position was great because of the interactions you had.Here is an interview answer example: "Customers called in with a technical issue, and within my department, we were typically able to fix the customers problem right then and there! It was a pleasure making a customer's day just by doing my job."

"Customers called in with an issue on their claims, and within my department, we were typically able to fix the customer's problem right then and there! It was a pleasure making a customer's day just by doing my job."

"The most cherished moment in my previous position as a customer service representative is the smile on people's faces as each problem is resolved, being part of the solution gives me fulfillment. I also relate to those challenges and am able to learn from each experience."

Have you ever called off work when you really could have went?

"No, I believe that honesty is essential for great working relationships. If and when I really have an urgent and legitimate reason to not come to work, I'll immediately notify my supervisor."

This is not a trick question. The interviewer is checking if you're honest and if you have attendance issues. If you have skipped work when you could have gone in, you may want to give an answer that deflects the question a bit by saying, 'I did miss work last year for a day, when my friend's parent passed away, I took a day off just to spend time with them a week or so after their passing.'Here is an interview answer example: "No, I believe that honesty is essential for great working relationships. If and when I really have an urgent and legitimate reason to not come to work, I'll immediately notify my supervisor."

"No, I believe that good attendance is critical for both professional growths and for the company objectives to be met. If I have an emergency I immediately notify my manager."

"No, I haven't ever called off work when I could have gone to work. If something came up that was urgent I've always contacted my supervisor immediately to let them know what is happening. In my experience, I found that honesty really is the best policy and it's like Mark Twain said, "if you don't lie you don't have to remember as much."

"I hold my role in high esteem and honesty is one of the virtues required of me, if I have to stay off work I would seek permission within the provisions of my employment."

Did you miss any days at work last year?

"At my previous job, I only had a total of 3 absences for 2 years. I don't get sick often; and unless there is truly an emergency, I come to work on time."

If you truly haven't, tell the recruiter so and add that you believe in an excellent work ethic which is why you avoid absences as much as possible. If you have, then let the interviewer know that it was only because of a legitimate reason.

"I take pride in my attendance records and avoid absences as much as possible. Unless there is an emergency, I am always at work on time."

"In the last year, I had two doctor's appointments which made it necessary to miss a half-day of work, 4 hours, on two occasions. But I planned for it and was able to accomplish my work by staying late for 2 hours the day before and the day after the half-day that I missed. Reliability, dependability, and punctuality are very important to me and all of my previous employers will verify that they were able to depend on me to be there. One aspect of working remotely from home that I find very beneficial is the fact that on those off days when I don't feel a hundred percent because I have a cold or something it's much easier to do my work than it would be if I had to commute downtown and commute home etc. I don't have to worry about passing my cold on to a co-worker and so it's much easier not to miss a day of work than it would be working in a traditional office."

"My job as a customers service representative requires me to always be on the ground, I ensure that I meet up to the expectations, although there was a day I had to attend to a family emergency, I called the office to explain to my line manager and a colleague was scheduled to fill in for me."

Give me an example of when you pleased a customer very much?

"A customer had called, asking about one of our products. After I described the product to her, I then proceeded to locate a store nearest to her location. I checked if there was stock available and let her know who to look for at the store. The customer thanked me gladly for going the extra mile for her convenience."

You should be prepared to give an answer to this question in any job interview that has customer interactions. Your answer should be able to highlight your skills and personality. Think of an instance or experience you've had with a customer that would make you stand out from the crowd.

"Working on a retention team at my previous employment. People mostly wanted to cancel due to rate increases. This particular customer had a triple increase in the overall rate. I reviewed the account to find out why. Explained the increase was due to multiple traffic violations in the last year. Then did an overall review of the policy and coverages. They suggested several discounts available and did get the rate down. Overall the customer understood the increase and was pleased with the discounts and did send my manager a compliment on my service."

"A customer called in to inquire about our travel insurance products. She expressed her frustration that the policy documents were too bulky and not easy to understand. To top it all, she mentioned that she was made to understand that the process of buying the product was a long one. Having listened to her concerns, I took her through the documents in a few steps, pointing out the benefits, considerations, and terms. The required documents were submitted and in a few minutes, her travel insurance certificate was sent to her. She was so excited that she sent a mail commending our services and that she was looking forward to doing more business with us."

Give me an example of when you made a customer really unhappy?

"One of our loyal customers was asking for a replacement of an item that had a defect. Unfortunately, the particular item was already out of stock due to a delay in the update of the database on my part. I relayed the situation to my boss and apologized, then proposed a solution. In order to appease one of our most loyal customers, I gave him a discount on the upgrade of the item he originally bought."

Relay the story to the recruiter without putting the blame on the customer. Acknowledge whatever mistakes you made but highlight the steps you took to fix the situation. The recruiter wants to know that you're capable of owning up to your mistakes and patching up a bad situation.

"It's unfortunate, but it does happen. I was unable to accommodate backdating coverages on an insurance policy for a customer, and she was very displeased and made it clear she was not happy. I stated I understand her frustration. Unfortunately, we can't backdate the coverages; however, we can apply them now, so she has them going forward. She wasn't as frustrated when we ended the call but, not happy."

"Unfortunately, working in unemployment, I have not always been able to assist customers to their satisfaction. I will however do everything within my power and authority to resolve their issue if possible. During these unprecedented times, claimants had to verify their identity to help prevent fraud and I was unable to release payments if they had not completed the required process."

Do you tend to give into customer complaints?

"What I do is I listen attentively to the customer's complaint and reassure them that the company will look into it. At my level, I cannot confirm resolution of the problem but I can let the customer feel that their concerns will be addressed promptly."

While it's important to keep customers happy, giving in to a complaint could be detrimental to the company. Show the interviewer that you can be firm but still accommodating. You will want to mention your understanding of company guidelines and policies, and how you adhere to them when giving customer support.Here is an interview answer example: "What I do is I listen attentively to the customer's complaint and reassure them that the company will look into it. At my level, I cannot confirm resolution of the problem but I can let the customer feel that their concerns will be addressed promptly."

"I listen first and then determine based on available resources what options are available to assist the customer and resolve any complaints they may have."

"I listen attentively and note all the salient points which serve as clues to solving the problem and I try as much as possible to resolve whatever challenges the customer might be facing. If I am unable to completely proffer solutions, I refer the Customer to the department that would be in the best position to tackle the queries without delay."

Describe a situation when you had a negative customer reaction?

"There was a time that I had to refuse a customer's unreasonable request due to company policy. In order to appease the customer, I empathized with their situation and communicated a willingness to help them find an alternative."

Let the recruiter know that despite the negative reaction, you had worked the situation around. Everybody has bad days, what's important is the way you react to the problem.

"While working as a guest attendant in the lodges, a lady who I had already checked in walked in angrily claiming that I gave her a room that she had not booked. She claimed that she had booked a room with a full view. After confirming the website where the booking was made, our partners had changed the profile of the room to full view instead of the partial view. After apologizing for the mistake, I informed her that since we are in a heritage park, we were not allowed to cut down trees and hence all the rooms have a partial view of the lake. However, with a consultation with the, I upgrade her to a new place which she likes. I had excellent feedback when she checked out after five days."

"I was unable to accommodate a customer request for fee refunds, due to system limitations on the account and guidelines. They had already had several refunds. I explained to them that I do understand it's frustrating throwing money away on fees. I started a check register for them and showed them how to use it "” also offered options for overdraft protection to ensure no more fees. Being proactive and offering solutions usually diffuses negativity."

"While working at the travel insurance desk, a Client sent a request was sent in for a month's coverage, I immediately issued the cover, but unknowingly to me, the Customer had called earlier that he would prefer an annual multiple coverages that will serve him through the year being a frequent flyer and the difference was paid. The customer called and was furious that his instruction was not carried out. I apologized and confirmed the payment, and the updated travel insurance certificate was immediately forwarded to the client."

What in the past demonstrates your ability to handle customer complaints?

"At my previous job as a call agent, I had handled a lot of impatient and frustrated customers. One of the important things I learned is that showing empathy to the customer's situation does wonders. Having the right and positive attitude goes a long way in calming down customers and keeping them satisfied with the service I've provided."

You need to show the interviewer or recruiter that you're capable of fixing sticky situations. Your ability to successfully handle difficult customers will give you an edge. Explain how you'd handle such situations and relate it to your past experiences. Here is an interview answer example: "At my previous job as a call agent, I had handled a lot of impatient and frustrated customers. One of the important things I learned is that showing empathy to the customer's situation does wonders. Having the right and positive attitude goes a long way in calming down customers and keeping them satisfied with the service I've provided."

"One of the important things I learned is that showing empathy to the customer's situation is highly effective. Having a positive attitude goes a long way in calming down customers and keeping them satisfied with the service I've provided."

"Customers are the heart of every business, every customer is different and must be treated with utmost care as every customer is faced with different challenges. The first thing I do is to calm the client down and listen to the client's complaint attentively while noting the salient points and also showing empathy, I assure them that their concerns will be resolved within the shortest time. I try my best to proffer solutions. If the complaint is beyond my jurisdiction I immediately transfer the call to the department best fit to deal with the challenge. Once this is resolved, I do follow-up calls to ensure that the customer is satisfied with our service."

What experiences do you have in customer service?

"I have a total of 3 years experience dealing with customers. I worked as a receptionist in a clinic for 2 years setting up appointments and maintaining patient records. I was also employed at an inbound call center for a year, my job was to set up customer accounts and verify information. Both jobs have honed my communication and organization skills, as well as my patience and attentiveness to customers."

Your response should be relevant and direct to the point. The interviewer is asking for experiences applicable to the job you're applying to. Collect your thoughts before answering to avoid mentioning unnecessary information.Here is an interview answer example: "I have a total of 3 years experience dealing with customers. I worked as a receptionist in a clinic for 2 years setting up appointments and maintaining patient records. I was also employed at an inbound call center for a year, my job was to set up customer accounts and verify information. Both jobs have honed my communication and organization skills, as well as my patience and attentiveness to customers."

"I have more than 20 years of customer service experience, mainly in a call center setting handling everything from unemployment to travel. In unemployment, my job consisted of taking more than 100 inbound calls per day to assist unemployment recipients. In travel, I handled calls from corporate travels and booked international flights, hotels, and cars, and made sure our clients had every aspect of their trip handled for them. My jobs have honed my communication and organization skills, along with my patience and attentiveness to my customers."

"Having worked in an insurance company for over 10 years, I was given the opportunity to work with different customers in the areas of giving advice on products, ensuring that the recommended products are tailor-made for the client's needs, I also volunteer to give presentations concerning the product to ensure customers understanding and satisfaction."

Customer Representative Interview Questions

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1. Would you lie to a customer if it was best for the company?
2. Describe for me a time when you failed at customer service.
3. In what ways could you improve as a customer service agent?
4. When have you provided excellent customer support?
5. How would you define really great customer support?
6. Tell me about a time when you turned around a situation wherein a customer that was angry became a customer that was very happy with the results.
7. If a customer says you are taking too long to solve the issue, what do you do?
8. How do you respond when you do not know the answer to a question?
9. If a customer demands to speak to a manager, what do you do?
10. Why are you the best fit for this job?
11. Where do you expect your performance to be after three months on the job?
12. What past experiences do you have turning cancellations back into customers?
13. Being in customer service is not the most exciting career, how would you make it fun?
14. Why do you want a job in customer service?
15. We expect our employees to answer phone calls throughout the day and log 4 hours of call time, can you handle that?
16. If a major product was recalled and our call center employees had to stay overtime, how would you react?
17. Give me an example, outside of a call center, where you have pleased a customer?
18. What did you like most about your previous customer service position?
19. Have you ever called off work when you really could have went?
20. Did you miss any days at work last year?
21. Give me an example of when you pleased a customer very much?
22. Give me an example of when you made a customer really unhappy?
23. Do you tend to give into customer complaints?
24. Describe a situation when you had a negative customer reaction?
25. What in the past demonstrates your ability to handle customer complaints?
26. What experiences do you have in customer service?

Customer Representative Interview Questions

1. Would you lie to a customer if it was best for the company?

2. Describe for me a time when you failed at customer service.

3. In what ways could you improve as a customer service agent?

4. When have you provided excellent customer support?

5. How would you define really great customer support?

6. Tell me about a time when you turned around a situation wherein a customer that was angry became a customer that was very happy with the results.

7. If a customer says you are taking too long to solve the issue, what do you do?

8. How do you respond when you do not know the answer to a question?

9. If a customer demands to speak to a manager, what do you do?

10. Why are you the best fit for this job?

11. Where do you expect your performance to be after three months on the job?

12. What past experiences do you have turning cancellations back into customers?

13. Being in customer service is not the most exciting career, how would you make it fun?

14. Why do you want a job in customer service?

15. We expect our employees to answer phone calls throughout the day and log 4 hours of call time, can you handle that?

16. If a major product was recalled and our call center employees had to stay overtime, how would you react?

17. Give me an example, outside of a call center, where you have pleased a customer?

18. What did you like most about your previous customer service position?

19. Have you ever called off work when you really could have went?

20. Did you miss any days at work last year?

21. Give me an example of when you pleased a customer very much?

22. Give me an example of when you made a customer really unhappy?

23. Do you tend to give into customer complaints?

24. Describe a situation when you had a negative customer reaction?

25. What in the past demonstrates your ability to handle customer complaints?

26. What experiences do you have in customer service?