At a Glance
- Tasks: Help sort, price, and prepare donated fashion items for sale.
- Company: Join Oxfam, a movement dedicated to creating a fairer world through sustainable retail.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, training opportunities, and potential travel cost coverage.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable retail experience and meeting like-minded individuals.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your passion and reliability!
- Other info: Open to all 18+, with full training provided and a supportive community.
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Fashion//Clothing Sawston, Cambs.)
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 โ 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 โ 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 weโd 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
Weโre 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, and 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 youโre open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, youโll fit right in!
By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces, you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam โ 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 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.
4 Morley\’s Place, High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire, CB22 3TG, United Kingdom
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Stock Specialist Volunteer (Fashion//Clothing Sawston, Cambs.) employer: Oxfam International
Contact Detail:
Oxfam International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice ๐คซ
We think this is how you could land Stock Specialist Volunteer (Fashion//Clothing Sawston, Cambs.)
โจTip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Oxfam's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to creating a fairer world will help you connect with the team during your initial chat and show that you're genuinely passionate about their cause.
โจTip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of fashion and clothing trends, especially in the second-hand market. Being able to discuss current styles or valuable vintage items can impress the manager and demonstrate your specialist knowledge.
โจTip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask during your initial chat. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively to the team and the shop's goals.
โจTip Number 4
Network with other volunteers or staff at Oxfam if you have the chance. Building relationships within the organisation can provide insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations or tips on how to excel as a Stock Specialist Volunteer.
We think you need these skills to ace Stock Specialist Volunteer (Fashion//Clothing Sawston, Cambs.)
Some tips for your application ๐ซก
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what Oxfam is looking for in a Stock Specialist Volunteer. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with their needs.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your passion for fashion and any relevant experience, even if it's informal. Emphasise your ability to work in a team and your reliability, as these are key traits they are looking for.
Craft a Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your enthusiasm for volunteering with Oxfam. Mention your interest in sustainable fashion and how you can contribute to their mission of creating a fairer world.
Prepare for the Initial Chat: Since the application process includes an initial chat rather than a formal interview, think about what you want to discuss. Prepare questions about the role and express your eagerness to learn and contribute.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfam International
โจShow Your Passion for Fashion
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for fashion and second-hand items during the chat. Share any personal experiences or interests related to fashion that could highlight your suitability for the role.
โจDemonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with others, be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Mention any previous experiences where you collaborated effectively with a group to achieve a common goal.
โจHighlight Your Attention to Detail
As a Stock Specialist Volunteer, you'll need a keen eye for detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully assessed the quality of items or made careful decisions in past roles or activities.
โจAsk Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the volunteering role and Oxfam's mission. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.