Putting together the perfect call center agent CV can be tricky. If you're not sure what to add, we can help.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of South Africans all applying for call centre vacancies. Competition to fill these positions are huge. Whether you only have matric, are currently a student, or you're a recent graduate, you qualify to work as a call centre agent.

It's easier if you already have experience, because you'll have real life examples of how you handle difficult situations, and how you've reached and exceeded targets - and you should add these. It's a little bit harder for those just starting out. What do you add? What do you leave out? But most importantly: what do the hiring people want to see that will make them call you?

We've got a few call centre CV tips for those of you who are just as unsure.

Don’t lie

Call centres do a background check. They call your references, they’ll verify your qualifications, and you’re going to do a one or more aptitude and competency tests before they hire you.  You’d be amazed how many job seekers think they’ll get away with CV fraud. Don't be one of them!

Improve your skills and knowledge by studying further - browse our online learning partner Udemy's courses here.

Personal Details 

Sometimes, job seekers send their CVs without double-checking that they contain the correct contact details. Maybe you've changed phone numbers or maybe you have a different email address - you have to ensure that these are updated. Indicate whether or not you have a licence and if you're South African or not. 

If you have a professional online profile, you can include that too. 

Including a short personal summary to introduce yourself. Keep it short though, this is just so that the hiring manager can see that you can write cohesive and grammatically correct sentences.

If you are at the beginning of your career, every bit of work experience should be included. Don't forget to mention what your duties in each position was, in bullet points. The list should be in chronological order and include the company name, its location and how long you were employed there.

If you're fresh out of high school and/or still studying, add you school name, subjects and symbols. If you've already graduated, you can leave your matric details out of your Education History. Instead, start with your most recent qualification: the name of your institution, the course and year you completed, your modules, and each module's symbol.

Add these to your skills:

If you do not yet have experience at a call centre, you can still talk about your soft skills:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Excellent people skills

Able to multitask

Can handle criticism

Have a good memory

Tactful manner

If you have previous call centre experience, emphasise these bits:

Excellent telephone etiquette

Results driven

High level of computer literacy

Able to handle irate customers

Able to handle complex calls and situations

Demonstrating empathy and understanding when talking to customers

If you have work experience that's maybe not call centre related, you can still mention the skills you've acquired:

Team player

Good time management skills

Problem solving skills

Can handle setbacks

Able to work without supervision

Cope well under pressure

Highly pro-active individual

Most call centres may require you to work in shifts. It is therefore important that you indicate that you're wiling to be flexible when it comes to working hours. Remember to clearly state when you are available to start your first day, in the event that your current employer has a strict notice period.

Add special accomplishments

If you've received an award, or if you've been recognised for something outstanding, mention it. If you have a hobby that has perhaps garnered you with medals, diplomas or provincial or national colours, you can add them here too.

At the end of your CV, list your references. If you have a previous employer, make sure that the person is aware that they are listed as a reference on your CV. This way they'll be prepared and be able to vouch for you without hesitating about your good work ethic and abilities. If you don't have previous work experience, add a trusted lecturer or teacher. Again, make sure that these people are aware that they need promote only your best traits - without lying.

Don’t forget

Typos, grammatical errors, and broken sentences will cancel your chances of being hired. Ask a friend or family member to go over your CV to iron out anything that isn’t perfect.

All that’s left is to apply. Find great call centre vacancies at reputable companies on Careers24 today.

Good luck!