At a Glance
- Tasks: Sort, price, and research donated books to maximise their potential.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement for a fairer world through second-hand treasures.
- Benefits: Gain retail experience, meet like-minded people, and have flexible volunteering hours.
- Other info: Enjoy training opportunities and possible references for future employers.
- Why this job: Be a Second-hand Superhero and make a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others and teamwork.
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!
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 a 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: 68 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, London, Greater London, SE3 0BN, United Kingdom
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm) 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 volunteering 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 (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Oxfam and its mission! Before you apply, take some time to understand what they stand for. This will help you connect with the team during your initial chat and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share your passion! When you meet the manager, talk about your interests and any specialist knowledge you have. This will help them see how you can contribute to the shop and make the most of your volunteering experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Show up on time and be reliable. Oxfam values commitment, so being punctual and dependable will set a great impression. Plus, it’ll help you build trust with your fellow volunteers and the management team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to ask questions! Whether it’s about the role or the training provided, being curious shows your eagerness to learn. Plus, it’ll help you get the most out of your time at Oxfam and ensure you’re doing your best work.
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Books Specialist, Blackheath SE London, Thursdays 2 to 6pm)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for books and helping others shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to our mission at Oxfam.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the Stock Specialist role. Whether it's your knowledge of rare books or your teamwork skills, we want to know how you fit into our community.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and get straight to the heart of what makes you a great fit for this volunteer position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with Oxfam. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
✨Know Your Stuff
Before your chat with the manager, brush up on your knowledge of books and any specific genres or authors you’re passionate about. This will show your enthusiasm and help you stand out as a Stock Specialist Volunteer.
✨Be Yourself
Oxfam is all about community and collaboration, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Share your experiences and why you want to volunteer – it’s all about making a connection!
✨Ask Questions
Prepare a few questions about the role and the team. This shows you’re genuinely interested and eager to learn. Plus, it’ll help you get a better feel for the environment you’ll be working in.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since reliability is key for this role, express your willingness to commit to the volunteering schedule. Highlight any previous experiences where you’ve demonstrated dependability, even if they’re not directly related to retail.
