We’re expanding our commitment to supporting adult learners by providing free of charge customer service job certification classes!

Indy Reads’ mission is to build literacy, English language, and job readiness skills to empower adults and families to reach their full potential. A dual focus on literacy education and job readiness programs helps us to educate and train adults as they enter or continue their participation in the Central Indiana workforce.

According to a 2012 study from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, certifications are a short-term educational commitment that can make a significant impact on an individual’s career opportunities and benefit earning potential.

Both seasoned professionals and entry-level employees can join our certification classes, and these classes are open to all adults, not only those who would come to Indy Reads for literacy education.

In less than two months, students can complete the certification and be on their way to a better paying job.

“We’re excited to offer certifications to customer service employees, who are the backbone of our community.” said Ryan King, Indy Reads CEO. “Those in customer service are on the front line of company and client interactions. Without a strong customer service base, many companies miss opportunities to meaningfully engage with their customers.”

This new offering compliments Governor Holcomb’s statewide drive to bridge the skills gap and prepare employees for high-demand jobs. Customer Service Representative positions made a 4 out of 5 flame ranking on the INDemand Jobs database, a program of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development that evaluates career options based on future growth and wage opportunities.

“We consistently hear from employers that they need qualified, reliable candidates to fill open front-line positions,” says King. “They receive many applicants for customer service positions, but few have the level of soft skills needed for the job. We want to help more people stand out and be ready to move ahead in their career.”  

Projections from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development estimate an increase of over 5,000 employment opportunities for customer service representatives in the Marion County area by 2026. (http://www.hoosierdata.in.gov)

Employers can also partner with Indy Reads to offer the certification class onsite for their employees. To learn more about the class and all of Indy Reads programs, call (317) 275-4040 or email certifications@indyreads.org. Prospective students and partners can visit indyreads.org/programs to learn more about how we’re working toward 100% literacy for all.