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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, gaining hands-on experience in customer service and sales.
- Company: Howdens is the UK's leading trade kitchen supplier, trusted by over 460,000 professionals.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, paid holidays, team incentives, and generous staff discounts.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with support from mentors in a fast-paced, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: We seek detail-oriented, proactive individuals with great communication skills and a passion for growth.
- Other info: Complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship while working alongside a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 13000 - 16000 £ per year.
Overview
Join Howdens as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and Kickstart Your Career. Howdens is one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers. Apprentices develop talent through a structured programme combining depot experience with off-the-job training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider. This 13-month apprenticeship offers hands-on experience across key areas of our depot, including customer service at the trade counter, sales and business development, stock control, and kitchen planning. You will be supported throughout by your Depot Manager, a dedicated mentor, and our in-house Learning and Development team to help you grow in confidence and capability every step of the way.
What You’ll Gain
- Learn how to deliver exceptional service and build strong relationships with trade customers both in person and over the phone
- Build skills in serving and selling to customers on the trade counter, and ensuring customers receive their products in a timely and efficient manner
- Gain product knowledge and develop the ability to advise customers on our kitchen, bedroom and joinery ranges, identifying new sales opportunities, and helping to drive the growth of the depot.
- Learn the principles of stock control and warehousing, ensuring stock levels are accurately maintained, and following all health and safety regulations
- Grow your confidence and communication skills as part of a close-knit team in a fast-paced depot environment
- Be supported to complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, including English and Maths if required
Future Career Pathways
- Trade Counter Salesperson
- Business Developer
- Kitchen Sales Designer
- Depot Management Roles
What We’re Looking For
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to doing things well
- Great communication skills and a customer-focused mindset
- A proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and use your initiative
- Good organisation and time management
- A genuine interest in developing your skills and growing your career
- The right to work in the UK
The Apprenticeship Programme
- Apprenticeship Standard: Level 2 Trade Business Apprenticeship
- Duration: Typically 13 Months
- Training: A mix of on-the-job experience and off-the-job learning
- Support: From a mentor, depot team, learning and development team and external apprenticeship training provider
- Qualifications: Essential Skills in English and Maths (if needed)
Rewards And Benefits
- £15,704 annual salary
- Paid holiday entitlement
- A matched contribution pension scheme
- Team incentives and social events
- Generous staff discount on Howdens products
About Howdens
Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, trusted by over 460,000 trade professionals. With more than 900 depots and a growing presence across Europe, we’re a business built on entrepreneurial spirit and strong local relationships. We’re committed to being worthwhile for all concerned. We aim to create an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. If you need any adjustments to our recruitment process, email apprenticeships@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we’ll be happy to help.
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Trade Sales and Service Apprentice employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Howdens' products and services. Understanding their kitchen, bedroom, and joinery ranges will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. Since the role involves interacting with trade customers, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your proactive attitude. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've taken initiative or solved problems independently, as this aligns well with what Howdens is looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former Howdens employees if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand what Howdens is looking for in a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice. Highlight key responsibilities and required skills that you can demonstrate.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the apprenticeship role. Emphasise any customer service experience, communication skills, and your proactive attitude.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention specific examples of your attention to detail and commitment to customer service.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Show Your Customer Service Skills
Since the role involves a lot of customer interaction, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in customer service. Highlight any situations where you successfully resolved issues or built strong relationships with customers.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Employers love candidates who take initiative. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond in previous roles or projects. This will show that you're ready to tackle challenges head-on.
✨Know the Products
Familiarise yourself with Howdens' kitchen, bedroom, and joinery ranges before the interview. Being able to discuss these products confidently will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and future career pathways. This shows that you're not only interested in the position but also in your long-term growth within the company.
