Teresa - Customer Service Officer (Information Services Division)

 

• How long have you worked at HCC?

I have worked at the Council since October 2007

 

• What attracted you to the role?

Firstly I wanted to live and work back in Lower Hutt.
 
I also had heard that Hutt City Council was a good employer and having worked in local government previously felt that I also had the skills necessary for the role. Also, I wanted to be in a Customer Services role, having face-to-face contact with the public.

 

• What does your job involve – day to day things?

Working with my colleagues to provide a ‘One Stop Shop' for general enquiries about absolutely anything! Not necessarily to do with Council either.  Being a "Jill of all trades". If we cannot provide the answers then we find someone who can.

 

• Things about the job that you enjoy the most…

Providing a public service and the challenge of finding solutions for tricky queries.  Working in a team with colleagues who are helpful, friendly and are willing to "go the extra mile" to help people.

 

• What is your view of the main benefits of working at HCC / in Lower Hutt?

After commuting to Wellington for the previous two years I had had enough of late trains and congestion. I also wanted a better life balance for myself and family.  Eldest son now goes to Hutt Valley High, husband works in Naenae, my Mother and youngest son at school in Maungaraki.  Lower Hutt is just a great place to work and live. The Hutt public transport bus service is well run and the drivers are friendly and helpful and you always get a seat! There is a good variety of shops all within easy walking distance, fabulous surroundings for walking at lunchtime, the gardens are immaculately kept and there is a range of restaurants.  Amenities such as the New Dowse Art Gallery, and Huia Pool to name a couple, as well as numerous gyms for the health conscious. What more could you ask for.

 

• What skills & attributes do you think someone will need to do your job?

You need to be accurate with information, flexible, non judgemental, enjoy dealing with customers who can present challenging situations (possessing a good sense of humour certainly helps) being able to think on your feet, actually be a little "Swan like" - calm exterior without getting ruffled whilst paddling madly below the surface!!

Click here to view a Job Description for this role.