Volunteer Shop Assistant Review

I worked in a voluntary position at one of their stores, answering phones, pricing items, serving customers, helping arrange collections and training new volunteers. It was a rewarding experience where I got to learn about customer service, how to work a till, how the shop was run and how to work as part of a varied team. Each day I got to try new tasks that I hadn't done before like sorting donations in addition to improving my confidence by dealing with customers on the phone and in person.

I learnt new qualifications like till operations, customer interaction and customer service. I also got to improve my maths through working out prices, teamwork, confidence and learnt about presentation, Health & Safety and responsibility.

I thoroughly enjoyed working as part of a team, being part of an organisation that helps others and learning new skills. It was a friendly atmosphere that I was sad to leave.

They made me feel like part of the team. The manager treated us all equally and brought in treats to keep us motivated. I felt honoured that the manager trusted me to help teach new volunteers.

It was a very organised programme, where we had an induction in the morning and then were trained by the manager or a lead volunteer/team leader who supported us and we could turn to if we encountered a problem.

My training provider was a team leader who often worked with us and offered support whenever we needed it.

The Shop manager supported us and kept us motivated by bringing in treats and encouraging us each day to do our best.

I had travel costs payed for but as it was work experience I was not paid.

There were none tied to the position but working there allowed me to get a payed job at a similar outlet and I had free time to spend on hobbies such as other volunteer work, reading and art

Yes

Because it is a great place to work at, where you can build confidence and learn/improve skills.

Dress smartly, bring everything asked of you, relax and be yourself.