Customer Service Resume Example, Template & Writing Tips 2025
Some data from 2022 shows just how big the customer service industry is in the US alone. About 55 million people work in retail, and another 3 million or so work as customer service representatives, either in person or on the phone.
Why does that matter? The industry is huge, so at any given time, there could be a lot of people writing out a customer service resume or looking for customer service resume examples. We're here to provide them.
Key Sections of a Customer Service Resume
You do, of course, have the option of using a resume template for customer service representatives, but if you've decided to write your own resume for a customer service position, there is a formula to follow. Using the format below will help you craft a resume that stands a better chance of being read by a hiring manager.
Contact Information
You might not realize it, but this is probably the most important bit of information on your resume. Because nothing else matters if a prospective employer can't contact you—whether you neglected to add some pertinent information or failed to check it for accuracy.
Your contact information should include:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number: This could be your cell or even a landline.
- Email address: Don't use an email address that isn't professional. Something that includes your name is perfect.
This provides a hiring manager with all the information they need to contact you. Just make sure you confirm your info is accurate by doing a thorough proofread.
How to Format This Section
Whether you're applying for work at a call center or a sales company, the format of this section remains the same. It's simple to read and understand all the information. No extra details are needed since they can detract from what you want to share with a hiring manager. In most cases, the contact information section goes at the top of the resume or along one of the sides.
This is not the place for creative fonts—especially fonts with bold or clashing colors. They can create a distance or disconnect if a reader needs to work to read the font. You want to connect with whoever is reading your resume, not push them away.
As far as social media goes, it's not necessary for a customer service resume—or any other resume. However, since LinkedIn is specifically career-oriented, you may want to add it—especially if your work history is in line with the position you're applying for.
Professional Summary
A professional summary should be a brief but impactful statement that you make at the top of your resume. It should highlight any skills relevant to the position, experience, and achievements. Think of it as a snapshot of your qualifications—something a hiring manager can digest at a glance and make a quick determination about whether you're a good fit. You want to be clear about what you could bring to the role.
A strong professional summary should be concise, typically no more than three to five sentences, and be tailored to the job you’re applying for. Instead of being generic, it should include a combination of specific customer service expertise, any related technical or soft skills you have, and any measurable or quantifiable results you've had. Additionally, instead of overusing first-person pronouns like "I" or "me," try to stick to a direct, professional tone.
Keep in mind that the goal here is to make an immediate impression and show how your background aligns with the employer's needs. This will increase the chances of you resume getting read in full.
Skills Section
Communication skills, interpersonal skills, and other soft skills are valuable for a customer service resume. Think about conflict resolution, problem-solving, time management, and dependability. You can also weave in technical skills like troubleshooting or working with different software or tools. Depending on what area of customer service you were in, that might include handling cash registers or software like Zendesk or an array of CRM systems.
However, when it comes to customer service resume skills, remember to share only what you are best at doing. Having an endless list of skills often means the entire section won't be read. It may also make a hiring manager wary of how well you can do dozens of things if they are all listed.
Skills Example
The resume sample above gives you an idea of how customer service skills can be included on a resume. Show that you know how to take care of a new customer and work with other reps. Make sure that you assess how good you are at each ability you list. Be honest about what you can do so the employer can gauge whether you're right for the workplace. If you're unsure of what to list, look at the job description.
Work Experience
The professional work experience section is all about your work history and is an essential part of any customer service experience resume. If you have a solid background of experience, this is where you share it with the goal of coming across as the competitive applicant you are. So anything you've ever done at a previous job that pertains to customer service should go here.
Of course, not everyone is going to have a list of experiences to share. If that's you, think about other things you can share that will still highlight how and why you can handle the position. Between your professional summary and your experience, a hiring manager will be able to get a complete picture of what you've achieved in the past.
Work Experience Example
The experience section should focus on each customer service job you've had, just like you see in the above sample. If you have a lot of experience, be sure to choose the jobs that best showcase tasks and accomplishments that align with the requirements of the job description. The more experienced and competent you come across, the better your chances of getting to the interview stage.
Share that you can handle customer needs easily and quickly, and add in any abilities that you weren't able to showcase in your summary section. You should also add any tasks or duties from other jobs unrelated to customer support that prove your abilities. You may need to get creative, but almost every job will give you some skill related to working with customers—especially when it comes to soft skills. Don't forget to add those, because they are very important in a customer service role!
Education
Education should always be included on a resume, even if you have many years of experience. While some customer service positions require a high school diploma, not all do. However, if you have one, list it. Those who have degrees from a college or university can remove the high school information and only list their degrees and any relevant certifications.
Educational Background Example
In this customer service representative resume example, both degrees and certifications are listed in the same section. Unless you have several certificates, this saves you both time and effort. In addition, most of the same information is included for both types of education, so they fit together well. You can see the specific details in the image above.
Customer Service Resume Examples
Here is a short list of resume examples for customer service skills.
Entry-Level Customer Service Resume Example
Emma Johnson (555) 123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/emmajohnson | Toronto, ON
Professional Summary
Enthusiastic Customer Service Representative with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Experienced in handling inquiries, resolving complaints, and using CRM tools. Adept at multitasking in fast-paced environments. Seeking to contribute excellent service skills in an entry-level role.
Skills
- Customer Support & Active Listening
- CRM Software & Ticketing Systems
- Time Management & Conflict Resolution
Work Experience
Customer Service Intern BrightWave Solutions – Toronto, ON | Summer 2023
- Assisted customers with product inquiries and order tracking via phone and email.
- Maintained accurate customer records in CRM, improving response efficiency.
Retail Associate MapleMart Superstore – Toronto, ON | 2021 – 2023
- Provided friendly customer service, processed transactions, and assisted in inventory management.
Education
Diploma in Business Administration Toronto Community College | 2023
Certifications
- Customer Service Fundamentals – Coursera | 2023
Experienced Customer Service Representative Resume Example
Emma Johnson (555) 123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/emmajohnson | Vancouver, BC
Professional Summary
Results-driven Customer Service Representative with 8+ years of experience handling high-volume inquiries, troubleshooting issues, and improving customer satisfaction. Skilled in CRM systems, conflict resolution, and process improvement.
Skills
- Customer Service & Retention
- Conflict Resolution & CRM (Salesforce, Zendesk)
- Performance Metrics & Team Training
Work Experience
Senior Customer Service Representative Pacific Tech Solutions – Vancouver, BC | 2020 – Present
- Handle 60+ daily customer interactions across multiple channels.
- Improved response time by 30% through a new ticketing system.
- Mentored new hires, increasing team efficiency by 20%.
Customer Service Representative West Coast Retail Group – Vancouver, BC | 2015 – 2020
- Maintained a 98% satisfaction rating and resolved escalated issues.
- Increased upselling revenue by 15%.
Education
BBA, Business Administration University of British Columbia | 2015
Certifications
- Advanced Customer Service Strategies – Coursera | 2023
Customer Service Manager Resume Example
Emma Johnson (555) 123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/emmajohnson | Calgary, AB
Professional Summary
Strategic Customer Service Manager with 12+ years of experience leading service teams, streamlining operations, and improving customer satisfaction. Skilled in team leadership, CRM systems, and process optimization to enhance service efficiency.
Skills
- Customer Service Strategy & Leadership
- CRM Tools (Salesforce, Zendesk)
- Process Improvement & Performance Tracking
Work Experience
Customer Service Manager Summit Tech Solutions – Calgary, AB | 2019 – Present
- Lead 20+ reps, improving CSAT by 25% and reducing response times by 40%.
- Implemented CRM automation, cutting service errors by 15%.
Senior Customer Service Rep Alpine Retail Group – Calgary, AB | 2014 – 2019
- Managed escalations, resolving 90%+ of cases without further intervention.
- Trained team members, increasing service quality.
Education
BBA, Customer Experience Management University of Calgary | 2011
Certifications
- Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP) | 2023
- Six Sigma Green Belt – Udemy | 2021
Remote Customer Service Resume Example
Emma Johnson
(555) 123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/emmajohnson | Calgary, AB
Professional Summary
Highly motivated Remote Customer Service Representative with 5+ years of experience providing virtual support via phone, email, and chat. Skilled in handling inquiries, resolving issues efficiently, and maintaining high customer satisfaction in remote environments. Proficient in CRM tools (Salesforce, Zendesk) and adept at multitasking in fast-paced settings. Seeking to leverage expertise in remote service operations to enhance customer experience.
Skills
- Remote Customer Support & Live Chat
- CRM Software (Salesforce, Zendesk)
- Conflict Resolution & Problem-Solving
- Multitasking & Time Management
- Email & Ticketing System Management
Work Experience
Remote Customer Service Representative CloudTech Solutions – Calgary, AB | 2021 – Present
- Manage 80+ customer inquiries daily via chat, email, and phone, ensuring 95%+ satisfaction rate.
- Resolved technical issues and escalations, reducing customer churn by 20%.
- Assisted in training new hires on remote service best practices.
Education
Diploma in Business Communications University of Calgary | 2018
Certifications
- Remote Customer Service Excellence – Coursera | 2022
- CRM Software Training (Salesforce) – LinkedIn Learning | 2021
Retail Customer Service Resume Example
Emma Johnson
(555) 123-4567 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/emmajohnson | Edmonton, AB
Professional Summary
Friendly and customer-focused Retail Customer Service Associate with 4+ years of experience in assisting customers, handling transactions, and managing inventory. Skilled in POS systems, upselling, and conflict resolution to enhance the shopping experience.
Skills
- Customer Assistance & Sales Support
- POS Systems & Cash Handling
- Product Knowledge & Merchandising
Work Experience
Retail Customer Service Associate Urban Outfitters – Edmonton, AB | 2021 – Present
- Assisted 50+ customers daily, answering product questions and ensuring a smooth checkout process.
- Trained new hires on POS operations and customer engagement.
- Increased add-on sales by 15% through product recommendations.
Sales Associate MapleMart Superstore – Edmonton, AB | 2019 – 2021
- Processed 300+ transactions weekly while maintaining high accuracy.
- Resolved customer concerns quickly, improving satisfaction scores.
Education
Diploma in Retail Management Northern Alberta Institute of Technology | 2019
Certifications
- Customer Service & Sales Training – Retail Council of Canada | 2022
Best Practices for Writing a Customer Service Resume
Make sure you incorporate the following when writing your resume.
- Use action verbs to enhance your experience: Strong action verbs like resolved, assisted, managed, enhanced, or implemented—to name a few—make your experience more impactful.
- Tailor your resume for different industries: This ensures you highlight your most relevant skills and experience. It shows your understanding of the role and increases your chances of standing out to employers. For example:
- Retail: Emphasize sales support, POS system proficiency, and product knowledge.
- Tech: Focus on troubleshooting, CRM software expertise, and technical support skills.
- Hospitality: Showcase your ability to handle high-pressure situations, manage guest interactions, and resolve service issues quickly.
- Highlight problem-solving and communication skills: This will demonstrate your ability to handle challenges effectively. Describe how you've resolved customer complaints, handled difficult situations, or improved service processes. Since communication skills are so important in customer service roles, emphasize your experience in listening actively, clearly explaining solutions, and maintaining a positive tone.
- Showcase any metrics: This will add credibility to your achievements. Including quantifiable statements like "Improved customer satisfaction scores by 20%" or "Reduced response times by 30%" clearly states the value you added to previous teams. Metrics prove your ability to meet or exceed goals, improve processes, and contribute to the success of the business.
Customer Service Resume Skills & Keywords
When crafting a customer service resume, make sure you add both hard and soft skills—employers are looking for these! Not only that, using the right keywords can help ensure your resume gets past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which many companies use to screen resumes. Below are some suggestions:
Top Hard & Soft Skills Employers Look For
- Hard Skills:
- Proficiency with CRM systems (Salesforce, Zendesk)
- Knowledge of product/service details
- POS system experience
- Data entry and ticketing systems
- Inventory management
- Soft Skills:
- Strong communication and active listening
- Problem-solving and conflict resolution
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Patience and adaptability
- Ability to work under pressure
How to Optimize the Resume with ATS-Friendly Keywords
Incorporate industry-specific terms like:
- “Customer support”
- “CRM software”
- “Issue resolution”
- “Service level agreements (SLA)”
- “Escalation management”
And:
- Match the job description by using keywords listed in the posting
- Avoid jargon and focus on terms that align with industry standards
- Use variations of key terms to increase the likelihood of passing ATS filters (e.g., “customer service representative” vs. “customer support specialist”)
Customer Service Resume Template & Formatting Tips
For formatting, you want a clean and easy-to-read layout. Using the right structure, fonts, and design ensures that your resume stands out to hiring managers. Here are several formatting tips to enhance your resume’s appeal.
Choosing the Right Resume Format
- Chronological: Lists work experience in reverse order
- Functional: Focuses on skills and qualifications
- Hybrid: Combines both chronological and functional formats
Best Fonts, Spacing, and Layout for Readability
- Fonts: Use clear, professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
- Spacing: Use 1-inch margins on all sides
- Layout: Keep sections clearly defined with headings and bullet points
Dos and Don'ts for a Professional-Looking Resume
Dos:
- Keep your resume to one page, although you can use two if you have extensive experience
- Use bullet points
- Proofread
Don’ts:
- Use unnecessary colors or fonts
- Include irrelevant personal information like your age and marital status
- Exaggerate or provide inaccurate details
Cover Letter Tips for Customer Service Roles
A well-crafted cover letter helps you stand out by showcasing your personality, communication skills, and enthusiasm. It should highlight any relevant experiences, problem-solving abilities, and customer service skills that make you a strong candidate. Keep it concise, professional, and tailored to the job description.
Example of a Strong Customer Service Cover Letter
Emma Johnson 12345 Jasper Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T5K 0P1 [email protected] (555) 123-4567
March 8, 2025
[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the Customer Service Representative position at [Company Name]. With a passion for helping customers and a strong background in communication, I am eager to contribute to your team’s success.
In my previous role at [Previous Company], I assisted an average of 50+ customers daily, resolving inquiries quickly and efficiently and improving customer satisfaction scores by 20%. My ability to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor has been key to my success. Additionally, my experience with CRM software and problem-solving skills allow me to provide seamless support to customers.
I am eager to bring my dedication and customer-first mindset to [Company Name]. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your team’s needs. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely, Emma Johnson
Final Checklist & Common Mistakes to Avoid
If you're all done writing your resume for a customer service position, there are a few things you want to do before submitting it. Take the time to carefully review everything you've written and make sure it's polished, professional, and tailored to the job you're applying for. Having a well-structured resume will increase your chances of landing an interview since it properly showcases your skills and experience.
Quick Checklist Before Submitting Your Resume
- Spelling and grammar: Proofread thoroughly or use a tool like Grammarly if necessary.
- Clear formatting: Use an easy-to-read font, proper spacing, and consistent headings.
- Concise & relevant content: Keep your resume to one page—only use two if you're highly experienced.
- Tailored for the job: Match your keywords and skills to the job description.
- Action oriented language: Use strong action verbs to describe accomplishments.
- Metrics and achievements: Include measurable results. For example, increased customer satisfaction by 20%.
- Up to date contact information: Make sure your phone number an email are current.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Generic summaries: Avoid vague statements like "hardworking professional." Be specific.
- Too many skills: Keep this to what's the most relevant and skip the rest.
- Exaggerating or making false claims: Always be honest about your experience.
- Irrelevant information: Don't include things like age, marital status, or any unrelated hobbies.
By following these final steps, you can ensure your customer service resume is professional, impactful, and ready to impress hiring managers.
Conclusion
To craft a strong customer service resume, you'll need to do more than just list your experience. You need to tailor your resume to showcase your skills and qualities—the ones that show you're the best fit for the role. By customizing it using action words, keeping to a clean, clear format, and a professional outline, you'll increase your chances of making it to the next round, the interview.
Customize the Resume for Each Job
- Tailor your resume to match the specific job description and company needs.
- Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for each position.
- Use keywords from the job posting to increase ATS compatibility.
- Adjust your professional summary and accomplishments to align with the role.
Final Tips for Standing Out as a Customer Service Professional
- Showcase quantifiable achievements. Use phrases like "Reduced call resolution time by 30%”.
- Emphasize strong communication, problem-solving, and customer engagement skills.
- Keep your resume concise, well-structured, and easy to read.
- Always proofread before submitting to avoid errors and typos.
- Pair your resume with a compelling cover letter to make a lasting impression.
By following these strategies, you can create a customer service resume that highlights your strengths, sets you apart from other candidates, and increases your chances of landing your next opportunity.
And if all this sounds like more than you can do yourself, you can always use a resume writing service like the one CV Maker offers.