At a Glance
- Tasks: Help organise, price, and display donated books in our charity shop.
- Company: Join Teesside Hospice, a charity dedicated to funding life-saving research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, discounts, training opportunities, and free lunch for long shifts.
- Why this job: Make a difference while exploring your love for books and meeting new people.
- Qualifications: Open to anyone aged 14 and above; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Commit to at least 3 hours a week and enjoy a supportive team environment.
Location: Acklam, Coulby Newham, Great Ayton, Ingleby Barwick, Guisborough, Linthorpe, Marske, Norton, Redcar, Saltburn, Skelton, Stokesley, Thornaby & Yarm
Time Requirement: Flexible to suit you – Our shops are generally open from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Saturday. Time commitment and availability can be discussed and agreed with the Shop Manager. Where possible, we ask that all volunteers commit to a minimum of 3 hours per week.
DBS Check needed? No
Age Requirements: From 14 years old plus
Role Summary: As a Book Department Volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in organising, pricing, and displaying our extensive collection of donated books. Your efforts will contribute to creating captivating displays and inspiring others to explore new stories, all while supporting our charity’s mission of funding life-saving research.
Key Responsibilities:
- Keeping our book department fully stocked with a fresh selection of donated books
- Sorting through donations of books and organizing them according to our guidelines
- Valuing and pricing donated books following our guidelines
- Identifying rare and collectible books for online selling
- Some lifting and carrying of books may be involved (remember, books can be heavy!)
- Compassion and empathy
- Tact and sensitivity
- Ability to work alone and as part of a team
- Polite and approachable
Training Requirements:
- Teesside Hospice mandatory training
- Volunteer induction training
- Any other training identified as appropriate to the role
Support and Supervision:
Your first line of support for any enquiries will be the store manager to assist you in your role.
Communications:
The store manager will regularly provide you with information updates, training opportunities, and upcoming events appropriate to your role.
You will be provided with a Teesside Hospice volunteer badge and additional benefits, including:
- 20% discount off purchases made in our shops
- Opportunities for training and personal development
- Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses
- Provided lunch if you volunteer for more than 5 hours per day
- Access to discounts with other retailers and companies
- 10% discount in the Northgate Tea Rooms
If you’re friendly, reliable, and eager to contribute to our cause, we’d love to have you join our team!
Teesside Hospice is committed to eliminating discrimination and values diversity in the workplace.
Tell us a bit about yourself in relation to this role (Required).
Retail Book Volunteer employer: Stockton Volunteers
Contact Detail:
Stockton Volunteers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Book Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the types of books that are popular in the community. This will help you understand what to look for when sorting donations and how to create appealing displays.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current volunteers or staff at the shop to learn about their experiences. They can provide valuable insights into the role and what makes a successful volunteer.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for reading and community service during any informal chats or interviews. Your passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Be flexible with your availability. Since the shops are open Monday to Saturday, showing that you can adapt your schedule will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Book Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Retail Book Volunteer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these aspects.
Personalise Your Application: When writing your application, make sure to include a personal touch. Share your passion for books and any relevant experience you have in volunteering or retail. This will help you stand out as a candidate who genuinely cares about the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills that are particularly relevant to the role, such as organisation, teamwork, and customer service. Mention any experience you have with sorting or pricing items, as well as your ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Convey Your Commitment: Express your willingness to commit to the minimum of 3 hours per week and your flexibility regarding scheduling. This shows that you are serious about the role and ready to contribute to the charity's mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stockton Volunteers
✨Show Your Passion for Books
Make sure to express your love for reading and books during the interview. Share your favourite genres or authors, and explain how this passion can help you connect with customers and enhance their experience in the shop.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working both independently and as part of a team, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and support your teammates.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Availability
Flexibility is key for this volunteer position. Be clear about your availability and willingness to commit to at least 3 hours per week. This shows that you are serious about the role and ready to contribute.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewer
Having thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer demonstrates your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the types of books they receive, upcoming events, or how volunteers can make a difference in the community.