At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring collections and provide excellent customer service in our retail space.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to building a fairer world through community support.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, flexible hours, and potential travel cost coverage.
- Other info: Full training provided, with opportunities for personal growth and references.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while learning new skills and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion for helping others!
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.
Here’s why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!
- Increase Your Skills: 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 to help out. 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: Retail 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 retail spaces 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.
Retail Volunteer (Queen's Road Leicester) employer: Oxfam International
At Oxfam, we offer a unique volunteering experience that not only allows you to contribute to a fairer world but also provides valuable skills and a supportive community. Our flexible volunteering options ensure that you can make a meaningful impact while gaining retail experience, meeting like-minded individuals, and enjoying a vibrant work culture. Join us at our Queen's Road Leicester shop and become part of a movement dedicated to empowering communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Volunteer (Queen's Road Leicester)
✨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 show your genuine interest and help you connect better during your initial meeting.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself! The initial chat isn’t an interview, so relax and let your personality shine through. Share your passion for helping others and how you want to contribute to the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Think about what skills you want to develop while volunteering. Whether it’s customer service or visual merchandising, having a clear idea will help you express your interests and make the most of your time at Oxfam.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and helps us keep track of all the amazing volunteers wanting to join our cause.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Volunteer (Queen's Road Leicester)
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 any relevant skills or experiences you have. Even if you don’t have direct retail experience, think about how your past roles or volunteer work can relate to what we do at Oxfam.
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. A well-organised application shows you’re serious about joining our team.
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. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
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 with Oxfam. Reflect on your passion for making a difference and how this role aligns with your values. Being able to articulate your motivation will show the manager that you're genuinely interested in contributing.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Oxfam
Take some time to learn about Oxfam's mission and the impact they have on communities worldwide. Understanding their goals and initiatives will help you connect better during the conversation and demonstrate your commitment to their cause.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples from past experiences where you've collaborated effectively. Highlighting your ability to work well in a team will resonate with the manager.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the manager about the volunteering experience. This could be about the training provided, the types of tasks you'll be involved in, or how you can make the most impact. Asking questions shows your enthusiasm and eagerness to get involved.
