What Does a Customer Service Advisor Do?

A Customer Service Advisor plays a key role in customer satisfaction by handling queries, resolving issues, and maintaining a positive experience. They may work in retail, call centres, financial services and many other industries where customer interaction is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Responding to customer queries via phone, email, or in person
  • Providing product and service information
  • Handling complaints and finding solutions
  • Processing orders, payments, and refunds
  • Updating customer records and maintaining databases
  • Assisting customers with decision-making and purchases
  • Building relationships to encourage customer loyalty
  • Meeting performance targets and service expectations
What Does a Customer Service Advisor Do?
Essential Skills for a Customer Service Advisor

Formal qualifications in this role aren't usually required; however, employers typically ensure their customer service advisors have GCSE Maths and English to a minimum of a C or 4 grade. Other key skills required for a customer service advisor are:

  • Strong communication and listening abilities
  • Problem-solving and multitasking skills
  • Empathy and patience when dealing with customer queries
  • Time management and attention to detail
  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment

Additional Beneficial Qualifications:

  • Experience in customer service or sales
  • Proficiency in CRM systems or customer support software
  • Business or customer service-related certifications
Essential Skills for a Customer Service Advisor
Typical Work Environment

Customer Service Advisors work in various industries, including retail, finance, technology, and healthcare. They may be based in call centres, offices, or face-to-face customer service settings. In addition to traditional office roles, we also place Customer Service Advisors in manufacturing environments, factories, warehouses, and other industries where businesses need customer support. Most of our roles follow standard office hours, typically Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm, though some companies may require evening or weekend shifts.

Typical Work Environment
Career Progression for Customer Service Advisors

With experience, Customer Service Advisors can move into senior roles such as Customer Service Team Leader, Supervisor, or Manager. Some advisors transition into sales, areas of marketing, or account management, depending on their skills and interests.

Career Progression for Customer Service Advisors
Customer Service Advisor Job Vacancies in Essex and Suffolk
We regularly recruit for Customer Service Advisor roles across Essex and Suffolk. Whether you're just starting or have years of experience, we have opportunities that offer career growth and stability.
Permanent Operations Manager

Operations Manager sought for a fast-growing e-commerce business in Chelmsford. Newly created role with end-to-end ownership of fulfilment, customer service and carrier performance

£50,000 - £55,000 p/a
Chelmsford, Essex
Depending on experience
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: 96361_1781018770 View
Temporary Forklift Driver

We are recruiting for a Counterbalance Forklift Driver to join a well-established food manufacturer in the Colchester area.

£13.50 p/h
Colchester, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: ACFFLT_1781018461 View
Temporary Panel Wirer

Are you an experienced panel wirer or electrical assembler? Apply online today!

£13.00 - £13.50 p/h
Braintree, Essex
Manufacturing
On-site
Job ref: 96668_1781017068 View
Temporary Stores Controller / Forklift Driver

We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established manufacturing business in Clacton-on-Sea who are looking to add a Stores Controller to their operations team.

£13.00 p/h
Clacton-On-Sea, Essex
Warehouse
On-site
Job ref: CM/HQ009935164_1781011736 View
Temporary CNC Operator

A small precision engineering company based in Witham are looking for a CNC Operator to join their expanding team.

£13.00 - £13.50 p/h
Witham, Essex
Engineering
On-site
Job ref: 96560_1781008096 View
Permanent Assembler

Are you an assembler confident with using small hand tools and manufacturing from drawings? This role could be just for you!

£12.71 p/h
Braintree, Essex
Manufacturing
On-site
Job ref: 95937_1780931497 View
Permanent Graduate Sales Associate

Support the generation and development of new business opportunities while learning the full sales cycle from prospecting through to customer handover.

£27,000 - £30,000 p/a
Stowmarket, Suffolk
Office & Administration
On-site
Job ref: JOBGradSales_1780929900 View
Temporary Hygiene Team Leader

We recruiting for an experienced Hygiene Team Leader to join a busy food production company based on the outskirts of Colchester. Due to the location, own transport is essential.

£16.14 p/h
Colchester, Essex
Food & Beverage
On-site
Job ref: CM/HQ0099351873_1780929866 View
FAQs About Customer Service Advisor Jobs
What skills and experience do I need to become a Customer Service Advisor?

You don't need formal qualifications, but strong communication, problem-solving, and customer handling skills are essential. Many companies provide training, so experience isn't always required for entry-level roles.

How much does a Customer Service Advisor earn in Essex and Suffolk?

Salaries typically range from £25,380 - £27,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and shift patterns. Unsociable hours, such as night shifts, may offer higher pay.

What are the working hours for a Customer Service Advisor?

Hours vary based on the company and industry. Some roles are 9 am - 5 pm, Monday to Friday, while others involve evening, weekend, or shift-based work.

Do I need qualifications for a Customer Service Advisor role?

No formal qualifications are required, but customer service or sales experience can be helpful. Employers look for strong communication skills, patience, and a customer-focused attitude.

Who does a Customer Service Advisor report to?

Customer Service Advisors typically report to a Customer Service Manager, Team Leader, or Supervisor, depending on the company's structure.

Customer service advisor office and administration recruitment