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- Tasks: Welcome customers, assist with product queries, and ensure a tidy store environment.
- Company: Join Derian House, a charity dedicated to providing exceptional care and support.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, make friends, enjoy discounts, and receive a uniform.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team making a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring enthusiasm and a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Volunteers must be 16+, with a commitment of one morning or afternoon shift weekly.
At Derian House we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer experience in all of our charity stores. As a Volunteer Sales Assistant, your role will be to work with the team of paid staff and other volunteers in our store in Preston. Our stores are more than just a shop; they are a community hub where customers feel valued, understood and welcomed. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who are passionate about customer service and can make our customers' shopping experience memorable.
What's involved?
- Greet customers warmly as they enter our store, offering a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
- Assist customers in finding products, answering questions, and providing recommendations to meet their needs.
- Handle customer complaints and concerns with patience, empathy, and a focus on resolving issues effectively.
- Ensure the store is clean, well-organised, and visually appealing at all times.
- Process cash & card payments using our point of sale system.
- Process Gift Aid on receipt of donations to increase vital funds for the hospice.
What's in it for you?
- Gain significant retail experience that can support career growth.
- Become part of a friendly and supportive team.
- Meet people from all walks of life, making new friends along the way.
- Get involved with other Derian House volunteers at our events.
- Great personal satisfaction.
- Discount available on all purchases in store.
- Uniform provided.
This Role Will Suit People Who Have...
- Excellent Communication Skills: Confident and able to engage in friendly and professional conversations with customers and team members.
- Customer-Service Awareness: A genuine passion for helping people, with the ability to understand and respond to individual customer needs.
- Team Player: Work well with others, contributing to a positive team dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.
- Volunteer Commitment: Must be able to provide a regular weekly commitment.
We really value kindness, honesty, integrity and reliability in our volunteers and staff and in return, we will do our best to provide you with a rewarding volunteer experience. Experience of working within a shop is not essential, it's more important to us that you are keen to make a difference and enjoy working as part of a team.
Time Commitment: One morning 9.30am to 1.30pm or afternoon 1.30pm to 4.30pm per week (Monday to Sunday) - times/days to be agreed at interview.
Training Requirements: Full site induction & mandatory annual training will be provided.
Expenses: Lunch & Travel allowance (minimum hours required per shift).
Age Restrictions: Volunteers must be aged 16yrs plus.
Volunteer Sales Assistant - Preston Shop employer: Derian House Children's Hospice
Contact Detail:
Derian House Children's Hospice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Sales Assistant - Preston Shop
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Derian House and its mission. Understanding the charity's values and the impact of your role as a Volunteer Sales Assistant will help you connect better with the team and customers, showcasing your genuine passion for the cause.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills before the interview. Think of scenarios where you might need to assist customers or handle complaints, and prepare responses that demonstrate your empathy and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Show enthusiasm during your interactions with staff and other volunteers. Being friendly and approachable can make a significant difference in how you are perceived, and it aligns perfectly with the community-focused atmosphere of the shop.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your availability and commitment during the interview. Since the role requires a regular weekly commitment, demonstrating your reliability and willingness to contribute consistently will strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Sales Assistant - Preston Shop
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what a Volunteer Sales Assistant does. Highlight the key responsibilities and skills required, such as excellent communication and customer service awareness.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your enthusiasm for customer service and teamwork. Include any relevant experience, even if it's not directly in retail, and emphasise your ability to engage with people.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your passion for volunteering and helping others. Mention why you want to work at Derian House and how you can contribute to creating a welcoming atmosphere in the shop.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which are important in customer-facing roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Derian House Children's Hospice
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping others during the interview. Share any previous experiences where you provided excellent customer service, even if they were informal or voluntary.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work well in a team. Discuss examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles or activities, showcasing your commitment to creating a positive atmosphere.
✨Prepare for Common Scenarios
Think about potential customer interactions you might face as a Volunteer Sales Assistant. Prepare responses for handling complaints or questions, focusing on empathy and effective resolution.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or upcoming events at Derian House to demonstrate your eagerness to contribute.
