Car Rental Agent
Job Description:Car rental agents hire out vehicles to businesses and the public.
Job Category:What you will do:
In your day-to-day tasks you may:
- answer questions from customers about prices and which vehicles are available
- take bookings and explain the terms of rental agreements
- complete paperwork, update computer records and take payments
- record a car’s condition and make notes of any existing bumps or scratches
- explain and demonstrate any special features
- check mileage and inspect for damage on returned vehicles
- do customer ‘call-backs’ to check their satisfaction with the service
- provide ongoing service and sales support to regular business accounts
Skills:
You’ll need:
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
- the ability to sell products and services (creativity)
As well as:
- administration skills
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to enjoy working with other people (teamwork skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations (leadership skills)
- excellent verbal communication skills
- active listening skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Car Rental Agent, specific qualifications are not usually mandatory. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial in preparing for a career in customer service and the car rental industry. Car Rental Agents primarily require strong customer service skills and good communication abilities. Here are some subjects that can be helpful:
- English Language: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for Car Rental Agents, as they interact with customers and handle reservations.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for calculating rental fees, processing payments, and managing financial transactions.
- Business Studies (Optional): Courses in business studies can provide insights into customer service principles, marketing, and business operations.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Proficiency in computer applications and reservation systems used in the car rental industry can be valuable.
- Geography (Optional): Courses in geography can be useful, especially if you work in a location where knowledge of local geography and attractions is important for customer assistance.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could gain some of the skills and knowledge for this role through a college course. In the UK, for example, courses include:
- Award in Developing Customer Service Skills
- Award in Customer Service
Apprenticeship
You could start by doing a customer service practitioner intermediate apprenticeship.
This would give you the chance to get a customer service qualification alongside learning to do the job in the workplace.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to work as a car rental agent.
Experience in customer service, office administration or sales work could give you an advantage.
Career tips
Having the right personality and good communication skills can be more important than formal qualifications.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 40-42 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/bank holidays on shifts.
You could work in an office, at an airport or at a port. You may need to wear a uniform.
Career Path & Progression:
You could become a supervisor or a manager.
With experience in business leasing accounts, you could become an account manager or move into fleet management.