TV review: The Call Centre

If you haven't seen The Call Centre, currently airing on BBC Three, it is time to log on to your iPlayer for some of the most oddly inspiring TV in recent memory.

To be fair, comparing Nev to the Brentmeister is a tad off the mark. That is apart from the bad dancing, banter with colleagues, singing and unorthodox business methods. Okay, so there is a liberal sprinkling of Brent in the Welsh multi-millionaire's repertoire. But Nev is a little like one of those comedy puddles that you jump into and end up shoulder-deep.

He may seem shallow, but Nev has hidden depths. A more caring boss you are unlikely to find.

I offer you three cases in point.

Case one – as Napoleon once said, "Ability is nothing without opportunity". Nev uses this as an introduction to his promotion review for one young member of staff.

When 18-year-old Robinson let it be known that he wanted promotion after six months, the chief executive officer challenges him to an arm wrestle. No interview. No trial period. A test of brute strength is all that separates Robinson from his goal.

Had Robinson won he would have been made assistant team leader. The 53-year-old man mountain beats the youngster not once, but twice, and Robinson's forfeit? The youngster was asked to clean the toilets and kitchen – hopefully not in that order – for the next two weeks.

It all ends in broad smiles and a big hug. And that is the endearing thing about Nev. He is so in touch with his workforce. And the staff seem to react positively to his unusual management style. Well mostly.

Case two – Matthew Thomas, aka Chickenhead, is a 25-year-old star salesperson who is pulled up for his lack of dress code and decline in general attitude. Chickenhead and wannabe comedian Richard 'Griff' Griffiths sit next to each other. Griff's rebellious ways are rubbing off on Chickenhead and the two top salesmen are losing their edge.

Following a verbal warning, and separation from Griff, Chickenhead gets more despondent. Step up Napoleonic Nev with another motivational plan.

With his mojo well and truly gone, Chickenhead seems somewhat rejuvenated at the prospect of proving his leadership skills – albeit for the Swansea-based call centre's football team against hot rivals from Cardiff.

The young father is inspired and leads his team to a narrow defeat. However, more importantly he does rediscover his sales ability and Nev's plan has worked.

And then there's Hayley.

Case three – tea lady for Save Britain Money, Hayley Pearce is certainly a character. The former salesperson was 'promoted' to her new role becaiuse she urned it. Sorry.

Hayley is clearly a live wire and when she goes to Nev with the suggestion of putting on a Strictly Come Dancing style extravaganza, her boss gives his full support.

Following initial interest from colleagues, Hayley is disappointed when a handful of folk turn up for the event.

Nev acknowledges the young lady's shortcomings but is adamant to assist.

For all his bravado and japery, Nev is sincere when he says: "I will do my very best to always look after her." And do you know what? I believe him.

Understandably, Hayley is disappointed with the Strictly Prancing no-show. Nev challenges her to organise a proverbial drinking session in a brewery. You know the proverb.

The smile of satisfaction on the 23-year-old's face at the end of the drinks party is all the reward her boss needs.

The maverick style of keeping people happy really gets results.

The Sunday Times list of the top 100 mid-size companies to work for recognised Save Britain Money as the second best in the UK. As the lovable Nev says: "Happy people sell."

On that basis, sales must be excellent at his call centre.

Paul Naylor