At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of volunteers, manage shop operations, and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a global leader in creating positive change through retail.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Meet like-minded people and grow your skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be a Second-hand Superhero and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and teamwork spirit!
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.
Do you want to make a real difference? At Oxfam, we sell items, build a better world, transform pre‑loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide. As a volunteer shop lead, you will open and close the shop, supervise other volunteers, allocate tasks to team members and support the management team in task management. You will also help with stock selection and pricing, customer service at the till, visual merchandising, and online shop listings.
Why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second‑hand Superhero – help create exciting collections – retail therapy with a purpose.
- Increase your skills – build 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 can make a big difference.
What you will be doing:
- Open, run and close the shop.
- Ensure the shop is ready to trade or cashing up at the end of trade.
- Allocate tasks to volunteer team members.
- Select, sort and price donated stock.
- Chat with customers and give outstanding service at the till.
- Research valuable and vintage stock.
- Visual merchandising – create eye‑catching window and in‑store displays.
- Photograph and list items for the online shop.
- Occasionally lift boxes (health and safety training provided).
The skills you need:
- Reliable and punctual for volunteering.
- No prior experience required – full training and support will be provided.
- Enjoy working as part of a team and collaborating effectively.
- Confident communicator with strong customer service skills.
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 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.
Where you will be based: Shop – Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 7DQ, United Kingdom.
Shift Lead Volunteer (Oxfam Standard Lincoln) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer that empowers volunteers to make a tangible difference in their communities while gaining valuable retail experience. With a flexible volunteering schedule, supportive training, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, you will thrive in a vibrant and inclusive environment. Join us in transforming pre-loved treasures into resources that support a fairer world, all from our welcoming shop in Lincoln.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Lead Volunteer (Oxfam Standard Lincoln)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before your interview, dive into their values and what they stand for. This will not only help you connect with the team but also show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since you'll be interacting with customers at the till, think of some scenarios where you can demonstrate your communication skills. Role-playing with a friend can really help you feel more confident.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork spirit! Be ready to share examples of how you've worked well in a team before. Oxfam values collaboration, so highlighting your ability to allocate tasks and support others will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to take on the online shop listings!
We think you need these skills to ace Shift Lead Volunteer (Oxfam Standard Lincoln)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for making a difference and why you’re excited about volunteering with Oxfam.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have. Whether it’s customer service or teamwork, show us how you can contribute to our mission of transforming pre-loved treasures into resources.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Oxfam
Before the interview, take some time to research Oxfam and its mission. Understand their values and how they transform pre-loved items into resources for communities. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your personal values with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
As a Shift Lead Volunteer, teamwork is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight any experiences where you’ve supervised or supported others, as this will demonstrate your leadership potential.
✨Customer Service Skills Matter
Prepare to discuss your approach to customer service. Think of specific instances where you provided outstanding service or resolved a customer issue. This will illustrate your communication skills and ability to create a positive shopping experience.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, the team you'll be working with, or how Oxfam measures success in their shops. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
