At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and share your passion for books with customers.
- Company: Join WHSmith, a well-loved brand with a rich heritage and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, employee discounts, and a supportive wellbeing programme.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with opportunities for growth in a dynamic retail environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that makes every journey better through the love of books.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for helping customers and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 € per hour.
As a Bookseller at WHSmith's flagship Bookshop at London Bridge, you’ll provide exceptional customer service and work independently or as part of a team to deliver our fantastic store standards. We want you, our customers, and our colleagues to be proud to share their journey with us.
The role is a 30hrs/week part-time permanent position working 4 of 7 days. The candidate must be able to work weekends and weekdays, mornings or evenings, having a flexible approach to shifts.
What being a Bookseller is all about:
- Delivering an exceptional customer service to all our customers.
- Speaking passionately and knowledgeably with our customers about books.
- Previous experience in a bookselling role is desirable but not necessary for the right candidate.
- Carrying out stock replenishment, ensuring all areas of the store remain tidy and inviting for our customers to shop.
- Meeting high standards of display and visual merchandising, helping customers find what they're looking for easily.
- Being part of a team and supporting colleagues.
What our Stores would love to see:
- A passion for helping customers have an exceptional experience in store.
- Confident in communicating within the team.
- Motivated to achieve fantastic results and standards.
- Adaptable to meet company requirements and goals.
How we reward our teams:
We know you’ll work hard to make WHSmith a success and keep our customers happy, so as well as your salary, pension scheme, paid annual leave and employee discounts, we’ll reward you with a range of deals from retail partners that will help you save money and make memories, whether a delicious meal, an adventurous day out, or tickets to see the latest blockbuster.
Whatever the future brings, our Employee Assistance Programme will support you with help and guidance for your wellbeing whether physical, mental or financial.
About us:
WHSmith has a remarkable heritage and we are growing particularly in our airports, hospitals, rail stations and motorway services. Our aim is simple, to offer our products to everyone on any of life’s journeys. Our InMotion brand, a leading digital accessories business, continues to grow and develop, offering an amazing customer experience with all the latest tech. We have created great partnerships with the likes of M&S and Costa Coffee, ‘broaden our offering’ to our customers throughout the UK. That’s why, as we continue our journey, our aim is simple: to make every one of life’s journeys better!
WHSmith are proud to be an inclusive employer, we want our colleagues to feel welcome, and free to be themselves with us.
Bookseller employer: WHSmith Travel
WHSmith's flagship Bookshop at London Bridge offers a vibrant work environment where passionate individuals can thrive as Booksellers. With a strong focus on exceptional customer service, employees benefit from flexible working hours, competitive rewards including discounts and an Employee Assistance Programme, and a culture that values inclusivity and personal growth. Join us in making every journey better while enjoying the unique atmosphere of one of London's most iconic locations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bookseller
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on WHSmith. Understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! As a Bookseller, you'll be interacting with customers all day. Think about how you can make their experience exceptional. Role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable with common scenarios you might face in-store.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for books! Be ready to chat about your favourite reads and why you love them. This not only showcases your knowledge but also your enthusiasm for helping customers find their next great read.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm right from the start. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Bookseller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Books:When writing your application, let your love for books shine through! Share your favourite genres or authors and how they inspire you. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about helping customers find their next great read.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Bookseller role. Highlight any relevant experience, even if it’s not directly in bookselling. We appreciate skills from other customer service roles, so don’t hesitate to showcase those!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your experiences and motivations easily, so make every word count!
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at WHSmith!
How to prepare for a job interview at WHSmith Travel
✨Know Your Books
Brush up on your book knowledge! Familiarise yourself with popular titles, genres, and authors. Being able to chat confidently about books will show your passion and help you connect with customers during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Whether it’s resolving a complaint or going the extra mile for a customer, having specific stories ready will demonstrate your ability to create exceptional experiences.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
WHSmith values teamwork, so be ready to discuss how you’ve worked well with others. Share instances where you supported colleagues or contributed to a team goal, highlighting your adaptability and collaborative spirit.
✨Be Flexible and Open-Minded
Since the role requires flexibility with shifts, express your willingness to work weekends and varied hours. Show that you’re adaptable and ready to meet the company’s needs, which will make you a more attractive candidate.