Christmas Customer Assistant - Food - Lisburn reference: 6253381772

## Opportunity Review: Customer Assistant - M&S Foods This review provides an in-depth look at the Customer Assistant role within the M&S Foods section, designed to help prospective candidates understand the opportunity and how it aligns with their career aspirations.

About the Role:

Marks & Spencer is seeking enthusiastic and customer-focused individuals to join their Foods team as Customer Assistants. This role is centered around providing exceptional service and championing the high-quality M&S Food products. You'll be the face of the brand, responsible for engaging customers, sharing your product knowledge, and ensuring every shopper feels valued. If you take pride in delivering a positive experience and enjoy being part of a dynamic retail environment, this could be an excellent step in your career.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Product Expertise and Brand Ambassadorship: This role offers a fantastic opportunity to develop and showcase in-depth knowledge of M&S Food products. You'll be empowered to recommend new items and become a trusted advisor for customers, building your confidence and credibility in a well-respected brand.
• Customer-Centric Development: At its core, this position emphasizes putting the customer first. This focus on remarkable service will hone your interpersonal skills, your ability to understand and anticipate customer needs, and your capacity to build lasting relationships.
• Digital Skill Enhancement: M&S is at the forefront of digital innovation in retail. As a Customer Assistant, you'll gain valuable experience utilizing digital tools like the Sparks App and in-store devices. This exposure will enhance your digital literacy and prepare you for the evolving demands of the modern retail landscape.
• Teamwork and Inclusive Environment: The role highlights the importance of being a team player and contributing to a positive, inclusive store atmosphere. You'll learn to collaborate effectively with colleagues, fostering a supportive environment that benefits both the team and the customer.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: The retail sector is fast-paced and ever-changing. This position will cultivate your adaptability and resilience as you seamlessly move between different store areas and respond to shifting priorities. This flexibility is a valuable asset for career growth in any industry.
• Commitment to Inclusion and Flexible Working: M&S demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities. They are open to discussing flexible working arrangements, which can be a significant advantage for candidates seeking to balance work with other commitments.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Work Pattern: The advertised work pattern is part-time, with shifts generally falling in the afternoon and evening across specific days of the week (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday from 14:00 to 18:00). Candidates should assess how this schedule aligns with their personal and professional commitments and long-term career goals.
• Proactive Engagement: Success in this role requires a proactive approach. You'll need to be comfortable initiating conversations, understanding customer needs, and going the extra mile to provide exceptional service. This proactive mindset is a critical skill for career advancement.
• Attention to Detail: Maintaining stocked shelves, ensuring cleanliness, and accurately handling customer transactions all demand a high level of attention to detail. Developing this skill will be beneficial for any role requiring precision and accuracy.
• Sales and Target Focus: While customer service is paramount, there's also an expectation to contribute to daily sales targets and capitalize on promotional opportunities. Candidates comfortable with this aspect of retail sales will find success and opportunities for growth.
• Continuous Learning and Feedback: The role encourages a mindset of continuous improvement. Being open to feedback, actively seeking it, and acting upon it will be crucial for your development within M&S and beyond.

In Conclusion:

The Customer Assistant role at M&S Foods presents a compelling opportunity for individuals looking to build a foundation in customer service, develop strong product knowledge, and gain valuable digital skills within a reputable retail brand. It's an excellent entry point for those passionate about food and dedicated to creating positive customer experiences. By embracing the proactive, adaptable, and team-oriented nature of this role, candidates can significantly enhance their skill set and lay the groundwork for future career progression within M&S or the wider retail industry.