Christmas Customer Assistant - Food - Warren Park Ashford reference: 6253810491

Review: Customer Assistant, Foods Section (Saturday Evenings & Peak Periods)

This opportunity at Marks & Spencer offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of retail, specifically within the highly regarded Foods section. If you have a passion for quality products, enjoy engaging with customers, and thrive in a dynamic environment, this role could be an excellent stepping stone in your career.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Product Expertise & Brand Ambassadorship: You'll have the opportunity to become a true champion of M&S Food products. This role encourages you to develop deep product knowledge, allowing you to confidently recommend the latest offerings and delight customers with your insights. This can be invaluable for building your confidence and communication skills.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The core of this position is delivering "remarkable service." You'll learn the art of making customers feel valued, a skill that translates across many professional fields. This focus on exceeding expectations will hone your interpersonal abilities and problem-solving skills.
• Digital Skill Development: In today's retail landscape, digital fluency is paramount. This role requires you to utilize in-store digital tools and apps like the Sparks App. This hands-on experience will enhance your digital literacy, making you a more competitive candidate in the modern job market.
• Teamwork and Inclusivity: M&S emphasizes a strong team ethic and an inclusive store environment. You'll have the chance to collaborate with colleagues, contribute to a positive atmosphere, and learn the importance of mutual respect and support.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: The retail sector is fast-paced, and this role demands adaptability. You'll gain experience working across different areas of the store, learning to adjust to changing demands. This cultivates resilience and a proactive mindset, key attributes for career growth.
• Unsocial Hours Premium: While the standard hours are focused on Saturday evenings, there's a clear incentive for working late nights. The + £3.00 p/h unsocial premium for hours worked between 22:00 and 06:00 offers a financial benefit for those comfortable with these working times.
• Development Opportunities: M&S is committed to pushing boundaries and entering a digital era. This indicates a forward-thinking company that invests in its people. You'll receive training to utilize digital tools and communication channels, laying a strong foundation for future advancement.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Work Pattern: The primary work pattern is Saturday from 15:00 to 23:00. This specific timing is a key factor to consider, especially if you have existing commitments.
• Peak Period Requirements: Be prepared for increased hours during the weeks commencing 14th and 21st December. This demonstrates a need for flexibility and dedication during busy periods, offering an opportunity to showcase your commitment.
• Age Restriction: Due to the late-night working hours, candidates must be 18 years or older. This is a strict requirement for health and safety compliance.
• Late Night Working: The role inherently involves working late into the evening on Saturdays. This is a crucial aspect to consider based on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
• Physically Demanding: The description highlights the need to "roll your sleeves up, work hard and go above and beyond." This suggests the role can be physically demanding, involving tasks such as stocking shelves and assisting customers on the shop floor.

This Customer Assistant role at M&S presents a fantastic opportunity to gain practical retail experience, develop essential customer service and digital skills, and contribute to a well-respected brand. By carefully considering the work pattern and the nature of the role, you can determine if this position aligns with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.