You can start a job in customer service without prior experience. Many entry-level customer service roles are open to people who are new to the field. Employers often look more for transferable skills than direct experience.

Here’s what helps you get hired without experience:

• Strong communication skills

• Patience and empathy

• Ability to stay calm under pressure

• Basic computer or typing skills

• Willingness to learn and take feedback

If you’ve worked in any people-facing role (like food service, volunteering, or cashiering), you already have relevant experience—you just need to frame it the right way.

Education requirements can vary by role. Some positions prioritize professional experience or demonstrated skills. Other roles such as technical fields may require a relevant degree. In some cases, experience can be considered in place of a degree. Candidates can be evaluated broadly, focusing on their ability to contribute effectively to the role and the company’s broader mission.

Customer service roles—particularly those at the mid-level or supervisory level—often involve several rounds of interviews with different team members, which can extend the hiring timeline. Additionally, some employers incorporate assessments such as typing tests or customer scenario evaluations, which require additional time to administer and review. A high volume of applicants can also slow the process as hiring teams work through screening candidates.

Unreliable work history and prior convictions may keep a candidate from being hired. Additionally, many employers require background checks and drug screenings, which must be successfully completed as part of the hiring process.