Explore: Customer Service Intern

Retail, Consumer & Personal Services

Johannesburg

Internship

6 months

Brief description of the role

As a Customer Service Intern at a major retail chain, I support the customer service team by assisting customers with their inquiries, processing sales transactions, and helping resolve basic complaints or issues. I gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced retail environment, learning how to maintain positive customer relationships, handle point-of-sale systems, and work collaboratively with team members to ensure a smooth shopping experience. This internship provides valuable insight into retail operations, customer satisfaction, and communication skills.

Key responsibilities and day to day tasks of the job

On a daily basis, I assist customers both in-person and over the phone, answering questions about products, store policies, and promotions. I help process sales at the cash register, ensuring transactions are accurate and efficient. When customers have concerns or complaints, I listen carefully and either resolve the issue directly or escalate it to a supervisor if needed. I also restock shelves, organize merchandise displays, and keep the store tidy to create a welcoming environment. Throughout the day, I collaborate closely with team members and attend briefings or training sessions to improve my product knowledge and customer service skills.

Skills most important for success in this role

> Clear, friendly, and respectful communication—both spoken and written—is essential for assisting customers and resolving complaints.
> Ability to remain patient, approachable, and empathetic, especially when dealing with frustrated or confused customers
> Quickly identify customer concerns and find practical, efficient solutions—often under pressure.
> Understanding what’s being sold (products, services, or policies) helps give confident and helpful support.
> Paying close attention to what customers say (and how they say it) helps identify their needs faster.
>Comfort using retail systems, point-of-sale software, or customer support platforms.

School subjects / tertiary courses / required certificates

English – Essential for effective communication with customers and colleagues.
Business Studies – Provides foundational knowledge of retail and business operations.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Useful for handling transactions and basic calculations.
Life Orientation – Helps develop interpersonal skills and customer awareness.

Tertiary
Retail Management / Business Administration / Marketing / Customer Relations Management / Hospitality Management / Communication Studies

Certificates / Short courses
Customer Service Excellence Certification / Point of Sale (POS) System training

Kind of work environment (e.g Office based, remote, fieldwork etc)

You’ll spend most of your time on the retail floor, interacting directly with customers and team members. The environment is fast-paced, dynamic, and customer-focused, requiring you to be on your feet for extended periods and ready to assist with various tasks.

There may be occasional time spent in a back office or staff room for training sessions, team meetings, or administrative duties, but the main focus is engaging with customers in person.

Potential career progression opportunities in the field

> Customer Service Representative (Permanent Role) > Customer Experience Associate / Supervisor > Store Supervisor / Assistant Manager > Customer Service Manager
These are just some of the positions you can have in the retail industry but there are many more as you grow in your field.