At a Glance
- Tasks: Help sort and sell pre-loved books while providing excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world.
- 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 experience needed, just a passion for helping others and being part of a team.
The predicted salary is between 7 - 12 £ per hour.
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!
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: Additional information: 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.
36 St Mary Street, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 1AD, United Kingdom
Bookshop Volunteer (Friday 1.00 - 5.00 18* Till and Sorting) in Cardiff employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable retail experience. As a Bookshop Volunteer, you'll enjoy a flexible schedule, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for creating a fairer world. With support for personal growth and a welcoming environment, Oxfam offers a unique chance to turn pre-loved books into resources that empower communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bookshop Volunteer (Friday 1.00 - 5.00 18* Till and Sorting) in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe before your chat! Pop in, have a look around, and maybe even strike up a conversation with current volunteers or staff. This will help you feel more comfortable and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
When you meet the manager, be yourself! Share your passion for books and helping others. They want to see your enthusiasm and how you can contribute to the team, so let your personality shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Think about what skills you want to develop while volunteering. Whether it’s customer service or merchandising, having a clear idea will help you express your goals during your initial chat and show that you’re keen to learn.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and how you can make a difference with Oxfam.
We think you need these skills to ace Bookshop Volunteer (Friday 1.00 - 5.00 18* Till and Sorting) in Cardiff
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 past roles or hobbies can translate into the skills we need, like teamwork and customer service.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a straightforward application! Stick to the point and avoid fluff. Use clear language and structure your application so it’s easy for us to read and understand your motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with Oxfam. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Why
Before heading into the chat, think about why you want to volunteer at Oxfam. Reflect on your passion for books and helping communities. This will help you express your motivation clearly and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Oxfam
Take some time to learn about Oxfam's mission and values. Understanding their work in creating a fairer world will not only impress the manager but also help you connect your personal interests with the organisation's goals during your conversation.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of a few questions to ask the manager about the role and the team. This shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more. You might ask about the types of books they receive or how volunteers typically collaborate in the shop.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working with others, be ready to demonstrate your teamwork skills. Share any past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with a group, even if it's just in casual settings. This will highlight your reliability and friendliness, which are key traits for a volunteer.
