FNSCUS301A
Respond to customer enquiries

This unit covers the skills and knowledge to respond to customer enquiries about financial products or services.

Application

This unit applies to those engaged in primary customer contact in a financial service environment.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Obtain details of customer and nature of enquiry

1.1 The nature of the enquiry is clarified and all details obtained

1.2 A decision on whether the enquiry is within the scope of responsibility or authority area is confirmed

1.3 A decision on whether the enquiry can be satisfied immediately or whether further investigation is needed is made and customer is informed

1.4 If the enquiry can be answered directly, a response in accordance with organisational procedures is provided

1.5 If further investigation is required, the reason is explained to the customer and a timeframe is agreed upon for follow-up

1.6 Customer details are obtained

2. Research the information relevant to the enquiry

2.1 Sources of information are identified so that an appropriate response can be provided within authority levels

2.2 Information is obtained, organised and analysed to provide an accurate and satisfactory response

3. Determine a suitable response to the enquiry

3.1 Response is prepared in line with organisational procedures, guidelines and authorities and within accepted timeframe

3.2 Response is comprehensive, clear and delivered in the most appropriate form and within the agreed timeframe

4. Communicate information to the customer

4.1 Written or oral responses are given in clear, simple, and easy to understand language

4.2 Customer is treated courteously and an ongoing relationship is encouraged

4.3 Customer's special needs are considered and taken into account

4.4 Any further queries from the customer are attended to promptly

4.5 Checks and/or follow-up are undertaken to ensure that the response satisfies the customer’s needs

5. Update relevant records

5.1 Information on the nature and frequency of enquiries is collected for evaluation

5.2 Details of the enquiry are recorded as required by organisational procedures

Required Skills

Required skills

communication skills to:

determine and confirm customer requirements, using questioning and active listening as required

liaise with others, share information, listen and understand

use language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

prepare responses to meet client enquiries

literacy skills to read documents and complete forms and transaction records accurately

numeracy and IT skills to:

access and use computer-based service systems

access and use internet information

problem solving skills to address customer service issues

organisational skills, including the ability to plan and sequence work

teamwork skills to work cooperatively with others

reading skills to:

read and understand relevant legislation, regulation and codes of practice

read and interpret client communications

read and interpret organisational procedures

writing skills to:

accurately record information

draft business letters and emails.

Required knowledge

company policy, procedures and requirements

customer service process (including dispute and conflict resolution)

privacy and confidentiality legislation and requirements

product/policy terms and conditions

relevant legislation and industry codes of practice.

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

respond to a range of enquiries that satisfy the customer’s needs and achieve the company outcomes

consideration of, and adaptation to, any special needs of customers, including ethnic origin, religion, socio-economic status and demographic needs.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

competency is demonstrated in the context of the work environment and conditions specified in the range statement either in a relevant workplace or a closely simulated work environment

access to and the use of a range of common office equipment, technology, software and consumables

access to organisational records, policies and procedures.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

evaluating an integrated activity which combines the elements of competency for the unit or a cluster of related units of competency

simulated tasks involving preparation of reports from supplied data

verbal or written questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills

evaluating samples of work.

Guidance information for assessment


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Nature of the enquiry may include:

initial enquiry about a product or service

enquiry about ongoing use of a product or services

complaint about an error

request for new product or service

claim against a policy

Scope of responsibility or authority areamay include:

job description or accountability area

regulatory requirements

relevant legislation

Sources of information may include:

company records

credit reference organisation

past history with the organisation or other organisations

organisation's policy and procedures manuals

legislation

Customer's special needs may include:

ethnic origin

religion

socio-economic status

age and sex


Sectors

Customer service


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.