At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring book collections and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Meet like-minded people and enjoy a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable retail experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion and reliability.
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.
Do you want to make a real difference? At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre‑loved books and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre‑loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.
Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second-hand Book Hero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring book collections – giving pre‑loved books a new life and purpose!
- Share Your Interests: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.
- Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.
- Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.
Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!
What happens next? After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!
More about this role:
- Volunteer role: Bookshop Volunteer
- Volunteer manager: Shop Manager
- Where you will be based: Shop
Why we want you: We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!
You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active. By volunteering with us in one of our amazing bookshops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.
What you will be doing:
- Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example: Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
- Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
- Researching valuable and vintage stock.
- Visual merchandising: creating eye‑catching window and in‑store displays.
- Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
- This role may include occasionally lifting boxes.
We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.
The skills you need:
- We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.
- Full training and support is given for this role – no prior experience is required.
- Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.
What's in it for you:
- Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered).
- Access to training and development.
- Grow your confidence and meet new people.
- Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
- Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
- Possible references for future employers.
Disclaimer:
We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.
2-4 High Street, Walthamstow, Greater London, E17 7LD, United Kingdom
Bookshop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Book Volunteer) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam Walthamstow is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable retail experience. With a flexible volunteering schedule, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, you will not only contribute to a fairer world but also develop skills that enhance your personal and professional growth. Join us in transforming pre-loved books into resources that empower communities worldwide!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bookshop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Book Volunteer)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before you apply, take a moment to understand what we stand for. This will help you connect with the team during your initial chat and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the initial chat! This isn’t a formal interview, so relax and let your personality shine through. Share your interests and how you can contribute to our bookshop – we love hearing about your passions!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for teamwork! We’re all about collaboration here at Oxfam. Talk about any experiences where you’ve worked well with others, even if it’s just in casual settings – it’ll help us see how you’d fit into our volunteer community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Use the initial chat to find out more about the role and what you can expect. It shows you’re engaged and eager to learn, plus it helps you figure out how you can make the most of your time with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Bookshop Volunteer (Oxfam Walthamstow- Book Volunteer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you tick. Share your interests and why you’re passionate about volunteering with Oxfam.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that relate to the role. Even if you don’t have direct experience, think about how your hobbies or past roles can show us you’re a great fit for our team!
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a straightforward application. Stick to the point and avoid fluff. This helps us get a quick understanding of your motivations and suitability for the Bookshop Volunteer role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your volunteering journey with Oxfam.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Oxfam
Before your chat with the manager, take some time to learn about Oxfam's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to creating a fairer world will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Show Your Passion for Books
Since this role involves working with pre-loved books, be ready to share your favourite genres or authors. This not only highlights your enthusiasm but also gives the manager insight into how you can contribute to creating inspiring book collections.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Availability
Oxfam offers flexible volunteering options, so think about how much time you can realistically commit. Be honest about your availability during the initial chat, as this will help the manager find the best fit for you within the team.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Reliability
Oxfam is looking for friendly and reliable individuals. Share examples of how you've worked well in a team or demonstrated reliability in past experiences, even if they’re from school or other volunteer roles. This will show that you’re a great fit for their community-focused environment.
