At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome customers, ensure safety, and assist with their shopping experience.
- Company: Join M&S, a diverse and inclusive retailer that values individuality.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, a supportive team, and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant culture while making a positive impact on customer safety.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, confident, and possess strong communication skills.
- Other info: No licensing required; just bring your friendly personality!
Everyone is welcome at M&S. No exceptions. It’s your background, abilities and differences that make you, uniquely you. And when you’re part of M&S, that individuality has the potential to make waves.
Work Pattern
- Week 1
- Sunday: 07:00-16:00
- Monday: 14:00-22:00
- Wednesday: 08:00-15:00
- Thursday: 08:00-15:00
- Friday: 08:00-15:00
- Monday: 14:00-22:00
- Tuesday: 14:00-22:00
- Wednesday: 14:00-22:00
- Friday: 08:00-15:00
- Saturday: 08:00-15:00
Under 18 disclaimer
To comply with health and safety legislation and keep our colleagues safe in the workplace, colleagues in this role must be 18 years of age or older.
Key Accountabilities and Measures
- Provide customers with a visible presence at the beginning of their shopping journey.
- Confidently welcome customers to the store with a smile and by making eye contact, using a range of greeting techniques known to deter theft from the store.
- Support other areas within the store as needed.
- Be knowledgeable of the store, support key marketing messages, latest products and top questions (e.g. what time do you close?).
- Assist customers in navigating the store and provide the right level of support.
- Thank customers for shopping with us when they exit.
- Deal calmly and empathetically with people in various retail circumstances, including confrontational situations.
- Respond to door alarms sincerely and apologetically, resolving any issues the customer may have.
- Be a visible deterrent against violence, anti-social behaviour, targeted theft, till snatches and criminal activity.
- Identify and monitor suspicious persons, activity or theft and take appropriate actions to deter.
- Report all incidents through the M&S Incident reporting process.
- Ensure that persons served with a trespass notice do not re-enter the site.
- Engage with police and other security personnel to improve service to M&S.
- Apprehend external thieves only if necessary and in line with business policy.
- Report any incidents of known or suspected internal theft or malpractice.
Key Skills
- Confident with a friendly and natural personality.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage customers easily.
- Ability to remain focused on greeting customers and deterring suspicious activity.
- Natural empathy with our M&S brand and values.
- Self-motivated, willing to improvise and suggest new approaches.
- Able to maintain high standards of appearance and uniform standards.
- No requirement to be licensed, but good observation skills would be a benefit.
Key Relationships and Stakeholders
- Store Management team
- Store Colleagues
- Operational Security Manager
- Regional teams (RLPMs/RCOMs)
- Store Detectives
- SOC
- Police
- Local Networks
Customer Assistant - Service & Safety - Brooklands - Weybridge, Surrey employer: Marks & Spencer
Contact Detail:
Marks & Spencer Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Assistant - Service & Safety - Brooklands - Weybridge, Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with M&S's values and customer service approach. Understanding their emphasis on individuality and customer experience will help you align your interactions during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your greeting techniques and customer engagement skills. Since this role involves welcoming customers and deterring theft, demonstrating confidence and friendliness in your approach will be key.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various retail situations, especially confrontational ones. Showing that you can remain calm and empathetic under pressure will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable for your interview preparation.
We think you need these skills to ace Customer Assistant - Service & Safety - Brooklands - Weybridge, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Customer Assistant role. Emphasise your communication skills, ability to engage with customers, and any previous retail experience.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your personality and enthusiasm for the role. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully dealt with customers or handled challenging situations in the past.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on key skills mentioned in the job description, such as confidence, empathy, and strong observation skills. Use concrete examples to demonstrate these abilities.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks & Spencer
✨Show Your Customer Service Skills
As a Customer Assistant, your ability to engage with customers is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully assisted customers in the past, especially in challenging situations. Highlight your communication skills and your natural empathy towards others.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the Brand
Familiarise yourself with M&S's values and key marketing messages. During the interview, mention specific products or services that you admire and explain how they align with your personal values. This shows your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Situational Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle various retail scenarios, such as dealing with difficult customers or suspicious behaviour. Think through your responses in advance, focusing on calmness and empathy, which are essential for this role.
✨Exude Confidence and Approachability
Your presence in the store is vital for creating a welcoming environment. Practice your body language and ensure you can maintain eye contact and a friendly demeanour during the interview. This will reflect your ability to make customers feel at ease.