Thousands of people across New Zealand use or know New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). If a Deaf customer walked into your workplace today, would you be able to communicate with them?

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For people working in customer-facing roles, learning basic NZSL and understanding Deaf culture helps create welcoming, accessible, and inclusive experiences for Deaf customers. Whether you're greeting customers, answering questions, processing payments, or giving directions, simple NZSL skills can make a positive difference.

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This specialised course provides practical NZSL communication skills for everyday customer service situations, helping your staff build confidence and improve accessibility for everyone.

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​​About the Programme

We are pleased to introduce NZSL for Customer Service, a specialised online course developed by Merge NZ to support communication between customer service staff and Deaf customers.

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This short course is ideal for:

• Retail staff

• Receptionists

• Hospitality and café staff

• Library staff

• Customer service representatives

• Government and council frontline staff

• Tourism and visitor centre staff

• Community organisations

• Anyone working directly with the public

Participants gain practical NZSL skills that can be used immediately in everyday customer service situations.

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​Accessibility for the Deaf Community

We are committed to improving accessibility for Deaf and hard of hearing people when accessing everyday services.

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To support this, we have developed beginner-friendly NZSL vocabulary and phrases specifically for customer service settings.

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These practical signs help staff communicate more confidently during greetings, enquiries, payments, bookings, directions, and everyday interactions.

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Why Accessibility Matters

Accessible communication creates a positive experience for everyone.

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By learning NZSL, customer service staff can:

• Welcome Deaf customers with confidence

• Improve communication during everyday interactions

• Reduce communication barriers

• Build trust and customer satisfaction

• Increase awareness of Deaf culture and inclusive communication

Small communication changes can make a significant difference to a customer's experience.

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Register for the course

The NZSL for Customer Service online course includes:

• 3 weeks of learning

• 1 class per week (1 hour per session)

• Delivered fully online in NZSL

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Costs $65 per person. After registering, participants will receive their Zoom link, course schedule, and digital learning materials.​​

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Onsite Options

Would your organisation prefer a customised workplace workshop?

We also deliver onsite customer service training tailored to your organisation and you are welcome to contact us

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(Onsite delivery depends on tutor availability in your area.)