Cnect Wales, the leading forum for contact centers in Wales, in partnership with Cardiff City Council, has introduced a new pre-employment skills program aimed at upskilling individuals for customer service advisor roles and reducing unemployment.
This initiative, running for one week each month until February 2025, is designed to provide essential training to job seekers. Funded by the UK government through the Shared Prosperity Fund and the Leveling Up Fund, the training is free for all eligible candidates.
Sandra Busby, managing director of Cnect Wales, highlighted the importance of the program in addressing the challenges faced by both job seekers and employers in the current economic climate.
“We understand the challenges that both job seekers and employers face in the current economic climate,” Busby said. “That’s why we’re excited to introduce our latest project service, Cnect Talent, aimed at addressing this issue.”
The week-long program will equip participants with vital skills needed for customer service roles, including effective communication techniques and strategies for managing difficult customers. All candidates who complete the program are guaranteed an interview for a live job vacancy with participating employers.
“It’s a win-win”
Busby emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating, “By working with community hubs, job centers, and organizations, we can build a pool of motivated individuals ready to make a positive impact in the workplace from day one.” She added, “Our members are getting access to work-ready talent and helping to reduce unemployment rates—it’s a win, win.”
The “Cnect Talent” service underscores Cnect Wales’ commitment to fostering talent and creating meaningful opportunities within the customer service sector. This newly developed training program aims to bridge the gap between skilled individuals and available positions in the industry.
Cnect Wales supports over 350 members, including more than 200 employers who collectively contribute over £200 million annually to the Welsh economy. The forum offers a range of services, from training and education to research and consultancy, to support its members’ growth and development.
