As businesses continue to grapple with the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the Federal Reserve estimates that 47 million jobs could be lost because of this crisis. This increase in unemployment has led to a surge in workers looking for new opportunities. In particular, North Carolina expects 29,640 new jobs to be added in the professional and business services field by 2021 according to the NC Department of Commerce.
Goodwill University is the training division of Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont. They offer training programs, free of charge, that provide participants with skills that are in demand for employers in our region. Customer service has long been a highly requested skill set from Goodwill of the Southern Piedmont’s employer partners, leading to continued success for participants completing the Goodwill Customer, Business and Administrative Services program since its inception in 2015. With the rising demand for customer service acumen, especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the Charlotte-area Goodwill has revamped its customer service program to be more even more relevant to today’s unique business needs.
It has launched a new Customer Service Excellence program, which is now a two-week long learning experience that can be completed in person or online. In this new course, participants gain the techniques to provide great customer service, build rapport, address customer needs, make customers feel heard and maintain great relationships. Participants are given access to a self-paced e-learning path and practice skills using hands-on exercises. Facilitators provide additional training in developing customer service problem-solving skills and de-escalating challenging situations. Upon completion, participants earn a LinkedIn Certificate and Badge for “Becoming a Customer Service Specialist,” as well as a certificate of completion from Goodwill.
Prior to enrolling in the Customer Service Excellence program, participants will complete the Professional Development Bootcamp — a series of five one-hour virtual workshops including: Tips for Creating a Professional Resume, Interview Skills & Crafting a Superior Elevator Pitch, LinkedIn Essentials, Tips for Online & Virtual Interviewing, and Professional Networking & Creating a Lasting Impression. These courses are available to complete individually, or as the Professional Development Bootcamp, which results in a certificate of completion from Goodwill University.
Other prerequisites for the Customer Service Excellence program include a high school diploma or GED, and having a LinkedIn profile.
Access to Wi-Fi or a computer or tablet are not required. The Goodwill team can help to reserve space at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus to utilize available technology.
If you live in the Charlotte area and are ready to register or learn more, email [email protected] today!
This post originally appeared in Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont’s newsroom. Read more.
