At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort, price, and prepare donated music items for sale while engaging with customers.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail experience, meet like-minded people, and enjoy 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 developing skills and confidence.
- Qualifications: Passion for music 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!
More about this role:
- 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.
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.
68 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, London, Greater London, SE3 0BN, United Kingdom.
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Music Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Sundays 1 to 3pm) 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 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 (Music Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Sundays 1 to 3pm)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before you apply, dive into their values and what they stand for. This way, when you chat with the manager, you can show your passion for making a difference and how you fit into their vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to showcase your specialist knowledge! Think about what makes you a music expert and how that can help Oxfam. Whether it’s vintage vinyl or rare instruments, having specific examples will make you stand out during your initial chat.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a friendly attitude! When you meet the team, be approachable and enthusiastic. Building rapport with fellow volunteers and staff can lead to a more enjoyable experience and might even open up new opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, keep it flexible! Oxfam offers various volunteering options, so be open to different roles within the shop. Showing your willingness to adapt can make you a valuable asset to the team and enhance your overall experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Music Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Sundays 1 to 3pm)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your love for music and community shine through! Share why you want to be a Stock Specialist Volunteer and how your knowledge can help Oxfam make a difference.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your skills and interests without having to decipher complicated sentences!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven't worked in retail before, mention any relevant experiences that showcase your attention to detail or teamwork. This could be from school projects, hobbies, or other volunteer work.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly about the next steps!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of music and any specific items you might be dealing with. Oxfam values your specialist knowledge, so being able to discuss your passion for music and how it relates to the donations will really impress them.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with others, be ready to demonstrate your teamwork skills. Think of examples from past experiences where you've collaborated effectively, even if it's just in a casual setting. Oxfam loves friendly, reliable individuals who can work well in a team.
✨Be Open to Learning
Oxfam provides full training, so show your enthusiasm for learning new skills. Be prepared to discuss how you adapt to new situations and your willingness to take on tasks outside your comfort zone. This will show that you're not just there for the experience, but genuinely want to contribute.
✨Ask Questions
During your initial chat, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the role or the team. This shows your interest and helps you understand what’s expected. Plus, it gives you a chance to find out more about how you can make a real difference in the community through your volunteering.
