At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers, manage donations, and create eye-catching displays.
- Company: Join Oxfam's friendly team in a vibrant bookshop environment.
- Benefits: Lunch and travel costs covered, plus training and development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering hours to fit your lifestyle and potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and meeting new people.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and teamwork spirit!
Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over.
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: Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
- Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
- Visual merchandising: creating eye‑catching window and in‑store displays.
- Accepting donations from members of the public, speaking to the donors and asking them a few questions.
- Following clear instructions to label donations in order to maximise income.
- 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:
- Reliable and punctual for volunteering.
- Full training and support given for this role – no prior experience required.
- Team player, able to collaborate effectively with others.
- Comfortable speaking with customers, following instructions to complete tasks.
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.
Location: 34 Gabriels Hill, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JJ, United Kingdom
Till Volunteer (Saturday AM, Maidstone Bookshop) employer: Oxfam International
Join our vibrant Maidstone Bookshop as a Till Volunteer, where you can make a meaningful impact in your community while gaining valuable experience. We offer comprehensive training, flexible volunteering schedules, and the chance to meet new people, all within a supportive and inclusive environment. With opportunities for personal growth and the potential for references for future employment, this role is perfect for those looking to contribute positively while developing their skills.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Till Volunteer (Saturday AM, Maidstone Bookshop)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe! Before your interview, pop in and chat with the staff or volunteers. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you understand what they value in a team member.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the interview! They want friendly, reliable individuals, so let your personality shine through. Share your passion for helping others and how you can contribute to the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask the manager. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is right for you. Think about what you want to learn and how you can grow in this volunteering position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it keeps everything organised and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates.
We think you need these skills to ace Till Volunteer (Saturday AM, Maidstone Bookshop)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When 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 show your passion for helping others and your eagerness to learn.
Highlight Your Availability:Make sure to clearly state your availability, especially since this role is for Saturday mornings. We’re looking for reliable volunteers, so being upfront about when you can help us out will go a long way!
Show Your Team Spirit:Since this role involves working with others, mention any experiences where you’ve collaborated in a team. Whether it’s in school, previous volunteering, or just helping out in your community, we love to see that team player attitude!
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for both of us, please apply through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Show Your Friendly Side
As a Till Volunteer, you'll be interacting with customers regularly. Make sure to showcase your friendly and approachable personality during the interview. Smile, maintain eye contact, and be enthusiastic about helping others – it’s all about making a great first impression!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This role requires you to work closely with others, so highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past experiences where you’ve worked as part of a team, even if it’s from school or other volunteer roles. This will show that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
Since no prior experience is needed, emphasise your openness to learning new skills. Talk about your eagerness to take on training and how you’re excited to develop your abilities in a retail environment. This will reassure them that you’re committed to growing in the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training process, the types of tasks you’ll be doing, or how the shop supports its volunteers. Asking questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand what to expect.
