At a Glance
- Tasks: Support community projects through administration, volunteer coordination, and database management.
- Company: Volunteer Centre Dorset, dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing and resilience.
- Benefits: Impactful work, supportive team, training opportunities, and travel expense reimbursement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, IT proficiency, and a proactive approach.
- Other info: Join a fun, dynamic environment focused on collaboration and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Volunteer Centre Dorset supports Dorset’s voluntary and community sector to thrive, and champions volunteering for all. We also manage and deliver support to residents through a variety of projects designed to improve health, wellbeing and independence.
The Business Support role will support the effective delivery of Volunteer Centre Dorset’s projects by providing high-quality administration, volunteer coordination and database support. The postholder will play a key role in ensuring volunteers and community members receive timely, accurate and compassionate support, while maintaining robust systems and records that enable the organisation to operate efficiently and demonstrate impact.
Working across multiple projects, the Project Assistant will help strengthen relationships with volunteers and partners, ensure data is accurate and well maintained, and contribute to the smooth day-to-day running of the organisation.
Key Responsibilities- Provide general administrative support, to support the smooth running of the team, working simultaneously across a range of projects, multitasking in a number of areas of work.
- Develop a working knowledge of VCD’s core operations and projects, working collaboratively with the team to be a point of contact for enquiries.
- Respond to telephone and email enquiries, including triaging ‘asks for help’ from people across our community, particularly for those who are unwell, elderly or vulnerable.
- Work alongside health and social care professionals, responding to referrals for Community Volunteers and assigning tasks.
- Match community requests for volunteer-led support with suitable volunteers.
- Communicate with a wide range of individuals and organisations to meet project objectives.
- Signpost customers appropriately to alternative services.
- Assist volunteers to register on our database, find and join our volunteering opportunities.
- Help volunteers through the induction process for projects.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with volunteers.
- Maintain accurate records, files and documentation in line with organisational procedures.
- Maintain a clean and updated database to ensure data accuracy and compliance for the wider team.
- Support data quality by identifying and resolving duplicate, outdated or incomplete records.
- Research for community contacts that are not currently engaged with our services – and who would benefit.
- Assist with gathering evidence, statistics and reports that demonstrate the impact and value of VCD projects; capturing stories and case studies.
- Deliver key VCD messages and encourage collaboration with groups, communities and beneficiaries.
- Work flexibly, as part of a team, and independently making decisions when needed.
- Adhere to all VCD policies and procedures.
- Good knowledge of Office 365 programmes and IT systems.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise and multitask.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and use own initiative.
- Professional telephone and written communication skills.
- Proactive approach to developing projects and workstreams leading to improvements.
- Confidence working with relational databases and managing information accurately.
- Experience or knowledge of working within the community or voluntary sector.
- Experience using database or CRM systems.
- Full driving licence and access to a car.
- Contribution to impactful work improving lives and community resilience across Dorset.
- Being part of an experienced, passionate, supportive team committed to collaboration and making a tangible impact.
- A fun, dynamic working environment within a values-led organisation.
- Mileage allowance and relevant travel expenses reimbursed.
- Opportunities for training, personal development, and networking.
To apply, please submit your application to office@volunteeringdorset.org.uk including: Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification. Deadline for applications: Sunday, 5th April.
For further information contact: Office Manager on 01305 269214 or office@volunteeringdorset.org.uk.
Business Support Assistant in Dorchester employer: Volunteer Centre Dorset
Contact Detail:
Volunteer Centre Dorset Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Assistant in Dorchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Volunteer Centre Dorset. Understand their projects and values so you can show how your skills align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves a lot of interaction with volunteers and community members, be ready to demonstrate your professional telephone and written communication skills during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your organisational skills! Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise tasks and manage multiple projects at once. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your multitasking abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly through our platform for a smoother process. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Assistant in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see your passion for supporting the community and how you can contribute to our projects.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send out the same CV for every application. Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Business Support Assistant role. We love seeing candidates who take the time to personalise their applications!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of communication, make sure your written application reflects your professional telephone and written communication skills. Clear, concise, and friendly language goes a long way in making a great impression!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer Centre Dorset
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Volunteer Centre Dorset. Understand their projects, values, and how they support the community. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Business Support Assistant, you'll need to juggle multiple tasks. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed various responsibilities. Highlight your ability to prioritise and multitask, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Communicate with Compassion
Since the role involves supporting vulnerable individuals, practice demonstrating empathy in your responses. Think of scenarios where you've helped others and be ready to share these stories during the interview to showcase your compassionate approach.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Database Management
The job requires maintaining accurate records and using databases. Brush up on your knowledge of relational databases and any relevant software. Be prepared to discuss your experience with data management and how you ensure accuracy and compliance.