At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers via phone and in-person, providing expert advice on products.
- Company: Lawsons is the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials with over 100 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a pension scheme, and ongoing training for career growth.
- Other info: Work full-time with a supportive environment that values safety, service, and excellence.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team where your efforts directly impact customer satisfaction and sales success.
- Qualifications: Sales experience in a builders merchants is essential; strong communication and IT skills are a must.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 31000 € per year.
About Lawsons – Timber, Fencing & Builders' Merchants Careers in Havant
Lawsons is the UK’s leading independent supplier of timber, fencing and building materials, serving trade and retail customers for over a century. With a network of 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we pride ourselves on expert advice, reliable delivery and outstanding customer service. We are recruiting for a Telesales / Counter Sales colleague to join our Havant branch.
Role overview
As a Telesales / Counter Sales representative based at AVS Havant, you will be the first point of contact for many of our customers, providing product information, processing orders and delivering an excellent customer experience both over the phone and at the branch counter. The role requires strong communication skills, commercial awareness and the ability to work effectively in a busy merchant environment.
Main responsibilities
Respond promptly and professionally to inbound customer enquiries via phone, email and the branch counter, providing product advice and practical solutions.
Generate sales by taking accurate orders, upselling where appropriate and following up on leads and enquiries.
Process orders, quotes and returns accurately using company systems and ensure correct pricing and documentation for each transaction.
Manage and maintain customer accounts, recording key information and ensuring high levels of data accuracy.
Liaise with yard, delivery and branch colleagues to coordinate collections, deliveries and special requests.
Assist customers at the counter, loading small items where required and ensuring a tidy, welcoming sales area.
Resolve customer enquiries and complaints professionally, escalating issues to the line manager when necessary.
Support stock checks, price updates and merchandising activities to maintain a well-presented counter and branch showroom.
Champion Lawsons’ values by delivering exceptional customer service and contributing positively to the branch team.
Skills & experience
Previous telesales, counter sales or customer service experience within builders’ merchants, timber, landscaping or a similar trade environment is essential.
Excellent telephone manner and clear, confident verbal communication skills.
Strong numeracy and attention to detail to ensure accurate order processing and pricing.
IT literate with experience using sales or CRM systems; comfortable learning new systems and processes.
Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of service and accuracy.
Customer-focused, approachable and reliable with the ability to work well within a team.
Knowledge of building materials, fencing or timber products is advantageous but full product training will be provided.
Working hours
Full-time, permanent position (07.30 - 17.00 Monday -= Friday, plus 1 in 2 Saturday's (8.00 - 12.00)
Salary & benefits
Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£31,000 - £32,000)
25 days’ annual leave plus UK Bank Holidays and one celebration day.
Pension scheme and Death in Service benefit.
Access to the My Reward platform including employee assistance, wellbeing support and retail discounts.
Comprehensive induction, ongoing training and clear opportunities for career progression within Lawsons.
Lawsons is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are customer-focused, commercially minded and enjoy working in a busy merchant environment, we would like to hear from you. #MP
Telesales / Counter Sales employer: Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
Lawsons is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture at our New Malden branch, where your contributions directly impact customer satisfaction and business success. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to employee development through ongoing training and career progression opportunities, we ensure that our team members thrive in their roles. Join us to be part of a values-driven company that prioritises safety, service, and excellence in the construction supplies sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Telesales / Counter Sales
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the products that Lawsons offers, especially fencing, timber, and building materials. Understanding these products will not only help you in conversations with customers but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills by engaging in mock sales conversations with friends or family. This will help you become more confident in handling customer queries and showcasing your ability to build relationships, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the construction supplies sector and current market trends. Being knowledgeable about industry developments will allow you to provide valuable insights during your interview and show that you're proactive about understanding the business.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the construction and sales industries. Attend local events or join online forums to connect with others who can offer advice or even refer you to opportunities at Lawsons, enhancing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Telesales / Counter Sales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant sales experience, particularly in builders merchants or similar environments. Emphasise your communication skills and any achievements related to meeting sales targets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sales and customer service. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully built relationships with customers and exceeded sales goals in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, focus on skills that align with the job description, such as proficiency in IT systems, time management, and your ability to multitask. Use concrete examples to demonstrate these skills.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role:Convey your enthusiasm for the Telesales and Counter Sales position at Lawsons. Explain why you are drawn to their values and how you can contribute to their mission of delivering exceptional service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd
✨Know Your Products
Familiarise yourself with the range of fencing, timber, and building materials that Lawsons offers. Being able to discuss specific products and their benefits will demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Sales Experience
Prepare examples from your previous sales roles, particularly in builders merchants or similar environments. Highlight how you successfully met targets and built customer relationships, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Practice clear and confident communication. Since the role involves engaging with customers both over the phone and face-to-face, showcasing your ability to connect with people will be key.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Customer Focus
Lawsons values a supportive team environment. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with colleagues in the past and how you prioritise delivering excellent customer service.