At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create inspiring book collections and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through community empowerment.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, training opportunities, and potential references for future jobs.
- Other info: Comprehensive health and safety training provided; inclusive environment for all.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable retail experience and meeting like-minded people.
- Qualifications: Friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over; 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 books 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 Book Hero: In our high street shops, E‑commerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring book collections – giving pre‑loved books a new life and purpose!
- Share Your Interests: 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 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: Bookshop 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. 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 bookshops 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.
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.
Bookshop Volunteer in Shrewsbury employer: Oxfam International
At Oxfam, we offer a unique volunteering experience that not only allows you to contribute to a fairer world but also provides valuable skills and community connections. Our flexible volunteering options ensure that you can make a meaningful impact while fitting your commitment into your busy life. Join us in our Shrewsbury bookshop, where you'll meet like-minded individuals, receive comprehensive training, and have the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bookshop Volunteer in Shrewsbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe before your chat! Pop in, browse the books, and chat with current volunteers. This will help you feel more comfortable and show the manager that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share your passion for books and community work during your initial chat. Think about what excites you about volunteering at Oxfam and how you can contribute to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Flexibility is key! Let the manager know your availability and any specific areas of interest, like merchandising or customer service. This shows you're keen to make a difference while fitting it into your life.
✨Tip Number 4
After your chat, stay engaged! Follow up with the manager if you haven’t heard back. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar. Plus, don’t forget to apply through our website for a smoother process!
We think you need these skills to ace Bookshop Volunteer in Shrewsbury
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 books and helping others – it’s what we’re all about!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant interests or experiences that relate to the role. Whether it's a love for literature or previous volunteering, showing us how you can contribute will make your application stand out!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and get to the point – this helps us understand your motivations and skills quickly. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our mission there!
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 at Oxfam. Reflect on your passion for books and helping communities. This will help you express your motivation clearly and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Oxfam
Take some time to learn about Oxfam's mission and values. Understanding their work in creating a fairer world will not only impress the manager but also help you connect your personal interests with their goals during the conversation.
✨Be Ready to Share Your Interests
Think about what specific areas of the bookshop excite you. Whether it's sorting through donations or creating eye-catching displays, being able to share your interests will demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to the team.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the manager about the role and the team. This shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about how you can make an impact. Plus, it helps you get a better feel for the environment you'll be volunteering in.
