Customer Service Skills Test Question 14 – Using an interpreter instead of a child

Previous question  |  Back to question bank  |  Next question

Read the background and customer communication, then choose the response you would be most likely to give. Repeat the task after the customer follow-up.

Test part: Part 1: Customer interactions
Practice focus: Privacy, inclusion and clear communication
Difficulty: Medium

Background

A customer is struggling to understand questions about a sensitive application. Their teenage child is interpreting during the call. The service can provide a professional interpreter at no cost.

Customer communication

Customer: My child can translate. Please just ask the questions through them because we do not have much time.

Which response would you be most likely to give?

Response A

We cannot continue unless you call back with an adult family member who speaks English.

Response B

I can arrange a professional interpreter so we can speak directly with you and protect the privacy of the information. I will explain how long that will take.

Response C

If you are happy for your child to translate, we can continue with all the questions now.

Customer follow-up

The interpreter wait is about twenty minutes, but the customer says they must leave in ten minutes for another appointment.

Which response would you be most likely to give next?

Response A

We should continue through your child so the application is not delayed.

Response B

Call back whenever you are free and ask the next adviser to arrange an interpreter.

Response C

I can book a call at a time that suits you with an interpreter already arranged, or we can wait now if you prefer. Which option works better?

Click to reveal the answers
  • Initial customer communication: Response B
  • Customer follow-up: Response C

Members can unlock the full explanation for all six responses, including why the recommended replies are strongest and what makes the other choices weaker or unsafe.

Join our careers service to read more...

If everyone knew the best tricks and tips then they would no longer work! That is why the best guidance is for members only.

Subscribe to open the locked section on this page and get access to the full Civil Service Careers premium library.

Get help with applications, interviews, behaviours, personal statements, CVs, tests, workplace problems, promotions, and career decisions, all written for people who want a better result.

Already subscribed? Log in

Similar Posts