At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort, price, and showcase donated books while engaging with customers.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, meet new friends, and have flexible volunteering hours.
- Other info: Enjoy lunch and travel cost coverage, plus access to training and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while learning valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for books and a willingness to learn; 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.
As a specialist stock volunteer, you'll be behind-the-scenes. Your keen eye for detail, knowledge and passion for particular donations will ensure we can maximise the potential income.
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 following instructions, 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: Stock Specialist 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. You have a specialist knowledge and interest that means donations can be accurately valued, you can assess the condition of items accurately, ensuring only quality goods are put on sale. No prior retail or online selling 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!
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 who drop off donations and other members of the team.
- Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.
- Researching valuable, rare, antiquated and vintage stock.
- 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 volunteering in the retail space.
- A specialist knowledge and understanding in your area of interest.
- 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.
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 a 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.
Location: 68 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, London, Greater London, SE3 0BN, United Kingdom
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm) employer: Oxfam International
Oxfam is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining valuable skills. As a Stock Specialist Volunteer in Blackheath, you'll enjoy a flexible volunteering schedule, access to training and development opportunities, and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for creating a fairer world. Join us in transforming pre-loved items into resources that empower communities worldwide!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam's mission and values before your chat. This way, you can show your passion for making a difference and how you align with their goals. It’s all about connecting on that shared vision!
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share your specialist knowledge during your initial chat. Whether it’s about rare books or vintage finds, let them know what you’re passionate about. This will help you stand out as a valuable addition to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy! Engage with the shop manager and other volunteers during your visit. Building rapport can make a huge difference in how they perceive you. Plus, it’s a great way to see if the vibe fits you!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in and shows you’re keen to join the Oxfam family. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a Second-hand Superhero!
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for books and helping others shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the Stock Specialist role. Whether it's your knowledge of rare books or your teamwork skills, we want to know how you fit into our community.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role. Remember, less is often more!
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. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of books and any specific genres or authors you’re passionate about. Oxfam values your expertise, so being able to discuss what makes certain donations special will show your commitment and enthusiasm.
✨Show Your Passion
During your chat with the manager, let your passion for second-hand items and community impact shine through. Share why you want to volunteer and how you believe your skills can contribute to Oxfam's mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since this role involves teamwork, think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve worked well with others. Highlighting your ability to collaborate effectively will demonstrate that you’re a great fit for their team-oriented environment.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial chat. Inquire about the types of donations they receive, the training process, or how you can make the most impact. This shows your eagerness to learn and engage with the role.
