RG&E hires virtual customer service employees to assist with billing issues, reduce wait times

Rochester Gas & Electric and New York State Gas & Electric recently announced the graduation of their first class of 33 virtual customer service employees, who will help with billing issues and reduce wait times for call center customers, according to company officials.

In a statement, Patricia Nilsen, president and CEO of RG&E and NYSEG, said the new hires are part of the companies' broader efforts to prioritize customer care.

"These new employees understand that customer service is a top priority for our companies, and that they represent our commitment to serve with every conversation they have with our customers," she said.

In January, the utilities had announced that they would allow certain customer care representatives to work from home to create greater flexibility and attract more applicants. The latest staffing effort also includes virtual training for new employees. The utilities plan to hire more virtual workers throughout the year.

The companies also plan to increase staffing in the billing department and install new smart meters in areas with a history of billing problems, officials said.

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This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: RG&E, NYSEG adds more customer service workers to address complaints