At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring collections and provide excellent customer service in our retail spaces.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to building a fairer world through community empowerment.
- Benefits: Gain valuable retail skills, flexible hours, and meet like-minded individuals while making a difference.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with training, lunch costs covered, and potential references for future jobs.
- Why this job: Be a Second-hand Superhero and turn pre-loved treasures into resources for communities worldwide.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your passion for helping others and a willingness to learn.
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.
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 merchandising, 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 to help out. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!
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!
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, giving great service on the till.
- Researching valuable and vintage stock.
- Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.
- 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 this role - no prior experience is required.
- 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.
Retail Volunteer: Make an Impact & Learn Retail Skills employer: Oxfam International
At Oxfam, we offer a unique volunteering experience that not only allows you to contribute to a fairer world but also equips you with valuable retail skills in a supportive and flexible environment. Join a community of passionate individuals, enjoy the opportunity for personal growth, and make a meaningful impact while gaining hands-on experience in merchandising, customer service, and teamwork. With our commitment to inclusivity and comprehensive training, Oxfam is the perfect place for those looking to make a difference and develop their skills.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Volunteer: Make an Impact & Learn Retail Skills
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your initial chat, do a bit of research on Oxfam and its mission. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be yourself during the chat! The manager wants to see your personality and passion for helping others. Share your thoughts on why volunteering matters to you and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! This is your chance to find out more about the role and what it involves. Show your enthusiasm by asking about the different areas you can get involved in and how you can make an impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your chat! A quick thank-you message can go a long way. It shows appreciation and keeps you fresh in the manager's mind as they consider volunteers for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Volunteer: Make an Impact & Learn Retail Skills
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. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for making a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that relate to the role. Whether it’s customer service or teamwork, show us how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your motivations and how you can fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you started on your journey to becoming a Second-hand Superhero!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Why
Before heading into the chat, think about why you want to volunteer with Oxfam. Reflect on how their mission resonates with you and be ready to share your passion for making a difference. This will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Even if you don’t have prior experience, think about any relevant skills you might have. Whether it’s customer service, teamwork, or even a knack for visual merchandising, be prepared to discuss how these can contribute to the shop's success.
✨Ask Questions
This initial chat is a two-way street! Prepare some questions about the volunteering role, the team, or Oxfam’s impact. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you understand if this is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Oxfam values authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Be friendly and approachable, as they’re looking for individuals who can connect with customers and work well in a team.
