At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create a welcoming shop environment and assist with daily operations.
- Company: Join St Columba’s Hospice and make a difference in your community.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training, and enjoy complimentary tea and coffee.
- Other info: Flexible commitment, with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team while supporting a great cause.
- Qualifications: Friendly attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn.
We are currently looking for volunteers in our Haddington shop to help create a friendly, welcoming and helpful environment in the Hospice Shops. The volunteer will assist the shop manager in running the shop to raise funds for the Hospice.
Responsibilities
- Greeting and serving customers, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere and excellent customer service.
- Handling cash, cards and operating the till.
- Sorting donated second-hand goods, bric-a-brac and books.
- Steaming, hanging, tagging and pricing goods ready to go on the shop floor.
- Assisting with window displays.
- Keeping the shop well stocked.
- Keeping the shop clean and tidy.
Qualifications & Skills
- Understanding of the work and values of St Columba’s Hospice.
- Willingness to keep informed and stay updated about our work.
- Ability to act as an ambassador for St Columba’s Hospice by providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Adherence to Infection Control guidelines.
- Friendly with excellent customer service and communication skills.
- Numerate (able to operate till and handle cash transactions).
- Good knowledge of books – ideal but not essential for the Book Shop.
- Ability to work as part of the Retail Team without close supervision, within Hospice processes.
- Physically able to complete tasks such as stocking shelves, sorting donations, and housekeeping.
- Ability to prioritise when the shop is busy.
- Comfortable working independently during quiet times, and with other staff/volunteers when busy.
- Strong understanding of confidentiality and boundaries.
Time Commitment & Duration
Generally half a day once a week, but this can also be fortnightly. We try to be very flexible.
Location
St Columba’s currently has retail shops in Leith, Canonmills, Morningside, Ocean Terminal, Portobello and Haddington.
Support & Training
The shop manager and the Shop Operations Manager will support the volunteer. Recruitment checks include an interview with the shop manager and shop operations manager and an application form. Volunteers must be 16 years or over. Training consists of shop orientation, retail induction programme and group supervision/continuing professional development updates.
Additional Information
The Hospice provides complimentary tea and coffee to all volunteers, staff, patients and families as part of the hospitality strategy.
Retail Volunteers employer: St Columba's Hospice
St Columba’s Hospice is an exceptional employer, offering a warm and supportive environment for volunteers in our Haddington shop. With a strong focus on community and personal growth, we provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure that every volunteer feels valued and empowered. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying the camaraderie of a dedicated team and the satisfaction of contributing to a noble cause.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Volunteers
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the shop and its vibe! Before your interview, pop into the Haddington shop and chat with the current volunteers or staff. This will give you a feel for the environment and help you connect during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your customer service skills! When you're chatting with the shop manager, share examples of how you've created a welcoming atmosphere in the past. We love to see that friendly attitude shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to talk about your understanding of St Columba’s Hospice. Do a bit of research on their values and mission. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and ready to be an ambassador for the cause.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your teamwork skills! Whether you’ve worked in retail before or not, share how you can contribute to a positive team dynamic. We want to know you can thrive both independently and as part of our retail crew!
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Volunteers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let us know why you want to volunteer with St Columba’s Hospice. Share your enthusiasm for helping others and how you align with our values. A personal touch goes a long way!
Highlight Relevant Skills:Make sure to mention any experience you have that relates to the role. Whether it's customer service or handling cash, we want to see how your skills can contribute to creating that warm, welcoming atmosphere in our shop.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the team. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to jump in!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Columba's Hospice
✨Know the Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand the work and values of St Columba’s Hospice. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves greeting and serving customers, think of specific examples from your past experiences where you provided excellent customer service. Be ready to share these stories during the interview to demonstrate your ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
✨Be Prepared for Practical Questions
Expect questions about handling cash and operating the till. Brush up on your numeracy skills and be prepared to discuss how you would manage transactions accurately, especially during busy times.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role requires working as part of a retail team, so be ready to talk about your experience in teamwork. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles, and highlight your ability to work independently when needed.
