At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of volunteers, manage shop operations, and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world through community empowerment.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, training opportunities, and some lunch and travel costs covered.
- Other info: Full training provided, with a focus on teamwork and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable retail experience and meeting like-minded individuals.
- Qualifications: Friendly, reliable, and passionate about helping others; no prior experience needed.
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 items 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.
By undertaking this role you will enable the shop to open for trading, close up, supervise and lead other volunteers in tasks that enable the smooth running of the shop, and support the management team in task management.
Why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second‑hand Superhero: In our high street shops, e‑commerce hubs and online shop, you help create exciting and inspiring collections.
- Increase Your Skills: Build on a particular interest to gain valuable retail experience such as supervising a team, customer service and teamwork.
- Find Your Community: Meet like‑minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.
- Flexibility: 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.
What happens next? After you apply, the manager will invite you for an initial chat. From there you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved in the area of the shop that interests you.
Volunteer role: Shift Lead Volunteer
Volunteer manager: Shop Manager
Where you will be based: Shop
Why we want you: Friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed – we provide full training. Open to learning, enjoy working with others and have a passion for helping people.
What you will be doing:
- Opening and closing the shop.
- Ensuring the shop is ready to trade or cashing up at the end of trade.
- Allocating tasks to members of the volunteer team.
- Selecting, sorting and pricing donated stock.
- Chatting with customers and 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.
- Occasionally lifting boxes – we prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training.
The skills you need:
- Reliable and on time for volunteering.
- Willingness to be part of a team and collaborate effectively.
- Confident communicator.
- Full training and support provided – no prior experience required.
What's in it for you: Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager to understand what is covered). Access to training and development.
Shift Lead Volunteer (Dorchester) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable retail experience. With a supportive work culture that fosters teamwork and personal growth, volunteers can enjoy flexible hours, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for creating a fairer world. Join us in turning pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (Dorchester)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before your chat with the manager, do a bit of research on what Oxfam stands for. This will help you show your passion for making a difference and demonstrate that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be chatting with customers and leading other volunteers, it’s key to be confident and friendly. Try role-playing with a friend or family member to get comfortable with how you want to present yourself.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for teamwork! Oxfam values collaboration, so think of examples from your past experiences where you worked well in a team. This will help you stand out as someone who can lead and support others effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital side of volunteering, which is super important for roles like this.
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (Dorchester)
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. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for making a difference – it’s what we’re all about!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for. Show us why you’d be a great fit for the Shift Lead Volunteer role at Oxfam!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon – we want to understand your message without any confusion!
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 journey with Oxfam. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Oxfam Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Oxfam's mission and values. Understand how they turn pre-loved items into resources that empower communities. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your personal values with theirs.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a Shift Lead Volunteer, teamwork is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked well in a team before. Highlight your ability to allocate tasks and support others, as this will demonstrate your leadership potential and collaborative spirit.
✨Prepare for Customer Interaction
Since you'll be chatting with customers and providing great service, think about how you would handle different customer scenarios. Practice your communication skills and be prepared to discuss how you would create a welcoming atmosphere in the shop.
✨Bring Your Passion for Change
Oxfam is all about making a difference, so let your passion shine through during the interview. Share why you want to volunteer and how you believe your contributions can help create a fairer world. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
