Seasonal Phone Representative

Job Description:

Description

Company Overview:

Since 1951, Hickory Farms has connected people with savory flavors to share and send. Our specialty cured meats and cheeses are available for purchase online, in catalogs, in leading mass merchants and supermarkets, and in seasonal retail locations in the US and Canada. 

Hickory Farms is a privately held company with nearly 75 years of delivering quality, well-loved food gifts and charcuterie essentials. Every member of our nimble, dynamic team makes an impact every day in a high-energy, results-driven culture. 

Our Values lead the way. They are: The customer is our focus. Integrity and respect. We own it. Everyone has a place at the table. We embrace change. We savor the journey together. 

Position Overview:

Seasonal Phone Representative - This role is seasonal.  You will be working with our Corporate Sales and Service Team. This position works as part of the customer service team and is responsible for handling inbound calls as well as keying in orders received from various sources (email or phone). You will handle large amounts of sensitive information, which will require a great level of concentration and attention to detail. 

The ideal candidate will possess a typing speed of 40+ words per minute, as well as excellent grammar and punctuation skills. You will also be required to perform other related tasks that might involve communication with customers and other internal team members.   This position will report to the Corporate Sales Customer Service & Sales Operations Manager.

Our Values lead the way. They are: The customer is our focus. Integrity and respect. We own it. Everyone has a place at the table. We embrace change. We savor the journey together.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities - include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist the Business Gifting department in reaching its yearly productivity and sales goals
• Handle inbound/outbound calls
• Data entry of orders received by phone and email
• Handle customer emails
• Format, complete, and upload large order Excel files into our system
• Perform routine quality checks to ensure accuracy
• Communicate effectively with customers to discuss order details
• Perform escalations and use a proactive approach
• Other related tasks as assigned by management

Requirements

Educational and/or Work Experience Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree (obtained or in process) or relevant work experience
• 1+ years of data entry or related work experience
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Detail-oriented and self-motivated with strong initiative and creative problem-solving skills
• Excellent Customer Service skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience working in a professional setting

CRITICAL COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESS

Results-oriented. The successful candidate has demonstrated personal accountability and is willing to wear multiple hats to get results. Outstanding communications skills. The successful candidate will have excellent verbal and written communications skills.

A high-energy team player. This key contributor demonstrates the ability to work as part of a team as well as independently to achieve desired and meaningful outcomes. This role does require high-speed internet connectivity and your own laptop.

ADDITIONAL PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

The successful candidate will have a high degree of integrity and honesty, supporting a values-driven culture. They will aggressively share information and embrace the opportunity to overcome challenges, bringing out the best in themselves as well as the team when faced with obstacles.

The individual will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial organization. They will be decisive yet can be flexible and adaptable as the situation warrants. Due to the highly seasonal nature of our gifting business, this role requires a high degree of commitment and energy during the winter holiday season.

Hickory Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture that does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Hourly rate - $15/hr

Benefits -   As this is a seasonal position, it is not eligible for medical or other company-sponsored benefits, unless required by applicable state or federal laws.