Leaders of the customer service team perform various tasks, typically under the direction of a team leader. They typically are former customer service reps who have proven that they possess excellent customer service abilities and a superior understanding of their organizations. Some companies, however, recruit team leaders from outside when applicants demonstrate that they have a lot of experience. Team leaders generally require a high school degree and experience in customer service however a bachelor's degree is sometimes preferred. The shifts of team leaders are different and some are accessible 24 hours a day and requiring team leaders to work weekends and overnight shifts.
One of the team's leaders' primary responsibilities is to assist associates with queries from customers. Team leaders also deal with calls or escalated questions that agents typically cannot manage on their own, or when the need for a supervisor arises from the customer. To deal with calls that escalate the team leader must be patient and understanding. Team leaders also conduct group meetings, and being able to speak in front of a group is required. Based on the organization the team leader may be required to evaluate calls, where they listen to their associates calling them and then grade the calls based on factors like handling timing, scripting or sales. They also oversee the performance of team members and may discipline team members if required.