Customer Team Member reference: 1058592

This review provides an in-depth look at the Customer Team Member position at Co-op, offering insights for potential candidates to assess its alignment with their career aspirations.

Opportunity Overview

Co-op is seeking dedicated Customer Team Members to join their South Benfleet location. This role offers a permanent, part-time contract with 30 hours per week, plus regular overtime opportunities. The position is well-suited for individuals seeking a stable role with a strong focus on customer service and community engagement within a reputable organization.

Key Advantages for Candidates

• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: With a pay rate of £12.60 per hour, this role offers a solid financial foundation. Beyond the hourly wage, Co-op provides an impressive array of benefits designed to support colleagues' well-being. These include 31 days of holiday (pro-rata for part-time), a pension scheme with up to a 10% employer contribution, and access to virtual healthcare services for the entire family.
• Generous Staff Discount: A significant advantage for any Co-op employee is the 30% discount on all Co-op products, along with 10% discounts on other brands. This offers considerable savings for everyday shopping.
• Comprehensive Training & Development: Co-op invests in its people by providing full, paid training. This ensures that all new team members are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel. The company also emphasizes support for personal development and career progression, indicating potential for growth within the organization.
• Focus on Well-being: Co-op demonstrates a commitment to its employees' holistic well-being. This is evident through their support for physical, mental, and financial health, as well as market-leading policies that address significant life events. The inclusion of Wagestream, a money management app, further highlights this commitment.
• Flexible Working & Work-Life Balance: While the specific working pattern is detailed, the offer of discussion at the interview stage suggests a degree of flexibility. The promise of rotas shared three weeks in advance and accessible via mobile further aids in planning and managing work-life balance.
• Community Impact: For individuals passionate about making a difference, Co-op's long-standing commitment to fairness and community support is a significant draw. The role encourages involvement in local activities and events, fostering a sense of purpose beyond the day-to-day tasks.
• Inclusive Workplace: Co-op actively promotes diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from all backgrounds. They are committed to making reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process for candidates with disabilities and are part of the Disability Confident scheme.

Key Considerations for Candidates

• Shift Patterns: The advertised working pattern includes a mix of evening and morning shifts across different days of the week (Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday). While the specific hours are outlined, candidates should review these to ensure they align with their personal availability and preferences. The opportunity to discuss this further at interview is a positive aspect.
• Diverse Role Responsibilities: As a Customer Team Member, the role is varied, encompassing customer service at tills and on the shop floor, restocking shelves, and maintaining store cleanliness. Candidates should be comfortable with a dynamic work environment and a range of operational tasks.
• Application Process: The application process is designed to be accessible, with the ability to apply via mobile device without a CV, and involves two online assessments. Candidates should allocate approximately 20 minutes to complete these assessments.
• Career Path Alignment: This role is an excellent entry point into customer-facing roles and retail operations. For those looking to develop foundational skills in customer service, teamwork, and store management, this position offers valuable experience. Individuals with aspirations in retail management or specialized customer service roles may find this a stepping stone.

In summary, the Customer Team Member position at Co-op presents a compelling opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding role within a company that prioritizes its colleagues and communities. The comprehensive benefits package, commitment to well-being, and opportunities for development make this an attractive prospect for career-minded individuals.