At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort, price, and prepare donated stock while engaging with customers.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Meet like-minded individuals and grow your confidence in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable retail experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others and teamwork.
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 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.
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books - SW18 4SR) in London 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 flexible volunteering schedule, comprehensive training, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, you will not only contribute to a fairer world but also develop your skills and confidence in a supportive environment. 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 - SW18 4SR) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before your initial chat, do a bit of research on the organisation. Understanding their values and goals will help you connect with the team and show your genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the initial chat! This isn’t a formal interview, so relax and let your personality shine through. Share your passion for second-hand items and how you can contribute to the shop's success.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your specialist knowledge! If you have a particular interest in certain types of stock, make sure to mention it. This could be anything from vintage books to rare collectibles – your expertise can really help Oxfam maximise its potential income.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Use this opportunity to find out more about the role and the team. It shows you're keen and helps you figure out where you’ll fit best in the shop. Plus, it’s a great way to build rapport with the manager and team!
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books - SW18 4SR) in London
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 passion for second-hand treasures and how you can contribute to our mission.
Show Your Interest:Make sure to highlight any specific knowledge or interests you have related to the role. Whether it's vintage books or rare finds, let us know what excites you about being a Stock Specialist Volunteer!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and get to the point so we can easily see why you'd be a great fit for our team.
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 volunteering journey with Oxfam.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Before your chat with the manager, brush up on your knowledge about the types of items Oxfam sells. Whether it's vintage clothes or rare books, having a keen eye for detail will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Oxfam is all about making a difference, so let your passion shine through! Share why you want to volunteer and how you believe your skills can contribute to their mission. A genuine interest in helping others will go 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 the team.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial chat. Inquire about the training process, the types of donations they receive, or how you can make the most impact. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
