At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide top-notch customer service and manage donations.
- Company: Be part of Demelza, a charity supporting children with serious conditions.
- Benefits: Enjoy wellbeing events, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities to lead and develop a team of volunteers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and their families.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and good communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 9.9 - 12.1 £ per hour.
We are looking for a Retail Shop Assistant to join our Sittingbourne shop team, who is enthusiastic, passionate and driven to ensure every customer and donor has the best possible customer service and experience.
As a Retail Shop Assistant, you will be receiving donations which will need to be prepared and sorted ready for the shop floor with a focus on gift aided donations. You will support the shop’s trading operation and help maximise the potential revenue from shoppers.
This role will require flexible working across the seven day trading week, working 13.5 hours per week. Please note some bank holiday working is required as part of this role.
You will have the ability to adapt to a changing workload, using your own initiative and effectively manage your time. The role involves working alongside and assisting in the management and development of a team of dedicated volunteers; you will have the skills to prioritise workload and provide guidance and training.
Previous experience in a customer facing environment and good communication skills are essential. Computer skills are a requirement for this role, particularly knowledge of Microsoft Office. This role will involve moderate moving and handling. For insurance purposes, the post holder must be aged 18 or over.
For an informal chat, please call Rachael Boswell, Area Retail Manager, on 07597 388518.
Closing Date - 1 October 2026
The Company: Demelza delivers extraordinary care to extraordinary children who are facing serious or life-limiting conditions, throughout Kent, South East London and East Sussex. We’re here to support them and their families at every step – from first diagnosis and for as long as we’re needed. Demelza believes in care that doesn’t back down. We are Demelza.
The Benefits: Wellbeing events and support, Access to benefits and wellbeing platform through Computershare Employee Assistance, Access to training and development opportunities.
Retail Shop Assistant - Sittingbourne employer: Demelza
Demelza Hospice Care for Children is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community through charity retail. With a strong commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion, employees thrive in a supportive work culture that values personal growth and development. Located in Sittingbourne, the role of Assistant Shop Manager not only allows you to lead a dedicated team of volunteers but also provides a chance to enhance your skills in customer service and visual merchandising while contributing to a noble cause.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Shop Assistant - Sittingbourne
✨Get to Know Your Local Scene
Retail is all about community, so don't underestimate the power of local connections. Pop into shops you're interested in, chat with staff, and ask if they have any openings. This personal touch could land you a part-time gig with ease!
✨Show Off Your Personality
Retail is a people business, and employers love genuine, enthusiastic candidates. When you're applying for part-time roles, showcase your customer service skills and personality during interviews. Be yourself, and don't be afraid to share your love for the products!
✨Utilise College or University Resources
If you're a student, check out your university’s career services. They often have links with local retailers looking for part-time staff. It's a great way to find positions that work around your studies while also building your CV!
✨Check Out Seasonal Opportunities
Retail often sees a surge during peak seasons like Christmas or summer sales. Keep your eyes peeled for temporary part-time roles during these times. Many companies, including Demelza, may even transition seasonal workers into permanent positions if you impress them!
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Shop Assistant - Sittingbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:In retail, we know that customer service is king! Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've got with face-to-face interactions. Include specific examples where you went above and beyond for a customer—this shows potential employers like Demelza that you're all about creating great shopping experiences.
Flexibility is Key!:For a part-time role, showcasing your availability is crucial. Make it clear in your application when you can work, especially if you have weekday and weekend flexibility. Retail can demand odd hours, so we want to see that you're ready to jump in when needed!
Forget the Fancy Formatting:While you want your CV to look good, in retail, clarity is more important than flashiness. Use simple formatting and bullet points to make your experiences stand out. Retail managers at Demelza will appreciate a straightforward CV that’s easy to skim through.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:When applying for a part-time retail position, your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re excited about Demelza and what you can bring to their team. Maybe you love their products or admire their customer service philosophy—let that passion come through!
How to prepare for a job interview at Demelza
✨Mastering Brand Knowledge
As we're heading into a part-time retail role at Demelza, it’s super crucial to know their brand inside out. Familiarise yourself with their products, customer service approach, and any current promotions. This way, you can engage genuinely in conversations and show that you’re already invested in their vibe.
✨Excellent Customer Scenarios
Prepare for customer service scenarios! Retail interviews often include role-play or situational questions. Think about how you'd handle different customer situations, from dealing with complaints to upselling products. We want to hear how you can keep your cool and keep the customer happy!
✨Tailoring Your Availability
Being part-time means flexibility is key! Be ready to discuss your availability honestly. Employers in retail love candidates who can adapt their schedules to peak hours. Show that you're keen to work evenings or weekends if it helps them out.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Teamwork is essential in retail. Bring up experiences where you worked effectively in a team, whether it’s in previous jobs, school projects, or volunteering. We want to know how you can contribute to a positive team environment at Demelza!
