Home > Career areas > Customer Services > What type of person are we looking for?
Because this area of the business covers so many different specialities, the specific skills you'll require will depend on the team you're based in. On the whole, you'll need good analytical, numerical and literacy skills for any Customer Service role. If you’re based in a team that makes contact with customers, you’ll need to be a strong letter writer with an excellent telephone manner. For roles involving data entry or data management you'll also need to be proficient in the use of MS Excel. At your assessment we will identify your strengths and use this to match you to the most suitable role.
The recruitment process
We work very closely to make the process as straightforward as possible for all our candidates, and all our screening methods are based on competencies. In many cases, the first stage of the recruitment process after your initial application is a telephone interview. This will involve us checking your personal details and asking you questions regarding your current employment, educational background, previous experience and two competency based questions. It's also the perfect opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.
Successful candidates will be invited to attend an assessment centre, which will last about 3 hours and include an introduction to RWE npower and a site tour. You'll need to provide proof of your identity and eligibility to work in the UK (original and copy). You'll also be asked to complete a number of exercises, which may include a competency interview and written, verbal or numerical tests. In some cases a MS Excel test or group exercise may also be required.
Following the assessment centre all successful candidates will receive a verbal offer of employment within 10 days, including assessment centre feedback. We'll also send a welcome letter and pack and we'll call you before your start date to welcome you to the company.
Hints and tips for applying
The application
Before applying, have a look at www.npower.com to find out more about our company and see if we have got what you are looking for. When filling out the application form, highlight your own experience based on the competencies outlined in the job advert.
The interview
Take note of the key skills we're looking for and think of situations, ideally in the work place or education or life experiences, where you may have demonstrated these skills. Remember to give specific and detailed answers.
The assessment centre
Prepare for the tests by practising them online. Some examples of tests that may be used can be found at:
- www.shldirect.com(SHL) Examples of diagrammatic tests plus practice tests and feedback.
- www.morrisby.com (Morrisby) Contains advice and nine pages of sample abstract, verbal, numerical, perceptual, shape and mechanical test questions. Access practice tests via "test takers guide", "tests for selection".
- www.mensa.org.uk(Mensa) Not aptitude tests as such, but the pages might get you used to thinking quickly in test situations.
On the day itself, have a positive and encouraging attitude towards others around you. If it's been a long time since you last sat tests or attended an interview, our Assessors are there to give you all the information and support you need. Remember, we want you to be successful. However, if you're not, then we hope you'll gain from the experience and encourage you to re apply in six months time, when you'll have had time to develop your skills and confidence further.
