Customer Assistant Review

As a customer advisor I would spend the majority of my shift on the retail shop floor. My role would include dealing with customer needs, which may be just a simple enquire to using my experience to find a product that best suits their needs. I would also be responsible for stock replenishment, stock loss, bay resets, health and safety, and operating the timber saw service.

Although I was a bit sceptical about what I would get out of the apprenticeship initially, I very quickly found out that many of the modules helped me become a better advisor and colleague. I found the apprenticeship developed my leadership style to enable me to perform at a higher level.

The programme was varied and actually made me think about why I was doing the things I was. Understanding why we have do do things sets out clear guidance, leading you to feel better about work. The programme also meant I was far more likely to have an interest in the organisation and encouraged me to look deeper into the companies objectives.

I thought the programme was very well structured with a clear and detailed plan of learning. The programmes coordinator that I dealt with was always on hand to answer questions, however stupid they were. The only issue I had at the time of this programme, which was back in 2019, was the platform used was a bit disjointed having to use two separate sites to record your work. I am now on a different programme with the same provider and thankfully the new platform is awesome.

I believe I was lucky as both my department manager and the unit manager are totally behind anyone who wants to progress their career. Although during peak periods time was tight, the management was always able to allow me time to study. My biggest barrier was actually me, as I always felt guilty leaving others to pick up the work.

The help I received was mainly from the providers coordinator for my area. I could contact them by phone, email or teams, which meant they were nearly always there when I needed them. During the programme I did find myself getting behind, due to outside circumstances, but my coordinator listened and a new schedule was made.

Completing the programme I have learnt a great deal about my own performance and how that affects those around me. I have found that I am looked upon as a leader within our store, Unit managers words not mine, and that I do have influence over my colleagues. Knowing this has made me ensure that I am as fully aware of the companies policies as I can be.

Locally there are no real official activities to become involved with, apart from a 5 a side football team that ran for a short period. Nationally there are groups which have organised meet ups at various times, like a golf society and more recently a diversity group. On a local level there are occasions where colleagues have gotten together outside work socially.

Yes

Throughout my 5 year employment I have found that as an employer B&Q are a great company who value their workforce. I have been lucky enough to work for some great managers who understand the need to allow their team to develop. Our store is an enjoyable place to be as the way in which we are treated by management is very fair. I have also found that even the directors are approachable and will speak to you as an equal.

Working for B&Q shouldn't just be looked upon as another job, it is much more than that. Their is a sense of belonging that should be embraced, otherwise you may find yourself on the outside looking in. When applying, always be open and honest during the application process, from initial contact to interview. Be yourself and sell yourself.