At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort and price donated items for our online shop, turning donations into funds for Oxfam.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to tackling poverty and inequality worldwide.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, flexible hours, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Join a friendly team and enjoy a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Be a Second-hand Superhero and make a real impact while learning new skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with a keen eye for detail and a passion for discovery.
As an Online Shop Stock Selection & Pricing Volunteer, you'll be based onsite, at the heart of our online shop, sorting through donated items and deciding what could shine online. You'll assess condition, research value, and set fair prices that help maximise income. Every item you prepare and price correctly helps raise vital funds for Oxfam's work tackling poverty and inequality around the world – from supporting communities affected by crisis to helping people build sustainable futures. It's a hands-on, rewarding role where your decisions directly turn donations into life-changing impact.
Here’s why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:
- Be a Second-hand Superhero: Help uncover hidden gems and give them a new life online, raising money for a powerful cause.
- Increase Your Skills: Build experience in stock handling, product assessment and pricing – great for developing retail and e-commerce skills.
- Find Your Community: Join a friendly, supportive team working towards a fairer world.
- Flexibility: A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.
A Role That Works for You: This role may suit someone who enjoys discovering hidden value and making informed decisions. It offers a blend of hands-on sorting, research and problem-solving, with the opportunity to assess a wide variety of donated items and determine their potential. Someone who is naturally curious, enjoys learning about different products, and takes satisfaction in attention to detail could really thrive in this role.
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 learn more about the role and discuss what you'd like to do.
More about this role:
- Volunteer role: Online Shop Stock Selection & Pricing Volunteer
- Volunteer manager: Shop Manager
- Where you will be based: Shop
Why we want you: Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged 18 and over. We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over to select, assess, prepare, and price donated items so they are ready for high-quality online listings. 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:
- Reviewing donated items and selecting those suitable for online sale
- Keeping online stock separate from shop floor items
- Checking items for damage, missing parts, and safety issues
- Identifying higher-value, collectable, or unusual items
- Cleaning, wiping, or steaming items where needed
- Recording faults clearly and honestly
- Researching sold prices using approved sources
- Setting realistic, sellable prices
- Labelling and preparing items ready for photography/listing
The skills you need:
- Enjoy sorting, assessing, and valuing items
- Have good attention to detail
- Are curious and comfortable making decisions
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: Additional information - 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.
Volunteer: Online Shop Stock Curator & Pricing in Manchester 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 flexible volunteering options, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, you will not only develop new skills but also connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for creating a fairer world. Join us in Oldham and become part of a movement that transforms pre-loved items into resources that empower communities globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer: Online Shop Stock Curator & Pricing in Manchester
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Oxfam International, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Oxfam International.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Oxfam International and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
