Sales Assistant (Loughborough, GB)

Review: Sales Assistant - Dulux Decorator Centre, Loughborough

This opportunity at the Dulux Decorator Centre in Loughborough presents an exciting entry point into the vibrant world of paints and coatings with AkzoNobel, a company with a rich history dating back to 1792. As a Sales Assistant, you'll be at the forefront of customer interaction, contributing directly to the success of a key retail location within the UK's largest paint and decorating merchant.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Career Foundation with a Global Leader: Joining AkzoNobel means becoming part of a globally recognized organization with a prestigious portfolio of brands. This role offers a fantastic foundation for a career in retail, sales, and customer service, with ample opportunities for learning and development.
• Focus on Customer Experience: The core of this role revolves around creating memorable customer interactions. If you thrive on helping others, offering informed advice, and building relationships, this position will be highly rewarding. You'll be instrumental in ensuring both professional decorators and DIY enthusiasts receive exceptional service.
• Sales-Driven Growth and Rewards: Beyond a competitive hourly rate of £12.66, the role includes a sales-based bonus, incentivizing high performance and offering the potential to increase your earnings.
• Valuable Training and Development: AkzoNobel is committed to fostering your success. The job description highlights their dedication to providing training for career progression, encouraging skill development for both yourself and your colleagues.
• Part-Time Flexibility: With 16 hours per week spread over two days, this role is ideal for individuals seeking a part-time position that allows for a healthy work-life balance. The shift flexibility between 7 am and 5 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and occasional Saturdays offers further adaptability.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Dulux Decorator Centres offers a robust benefits package that goes beyond the basic salary. This includes holiday entitlement, income protection, staff discounts, an employee assistance program, life assurance, a great company pension, and a flexible benefits scheme offering options like gym memberships and retail cards.
• Company Culture and Values: AkzoNobel emphasizes a collaborative working environment, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a focus on mental wellbeing. Being a Top 100 Employer with ‘Investors in People-Gold’ accreditation underscores their dedication to their people.
• Encouragement for All Applicants: The company actively encourages applications from individuals with relevant experience and expertise, even if they don't meet every single criterion listed. This inclusive approach broadens the potential applicant pool and values diverse skill sets.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Retail and Customer Service Experience: While the company is open to those who may not tick every box, proven experience in a customer service or retail role is a significant advantage. Demonstrating strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills will be crucial for success.
• Adaptability to Shift Patterns: The part-time nature of the role requires availability for shifts on Thursdays, Fridays, and some Saturdays within specified hours. Understanding and being able to commit to these rotating shifts is essential.
• Collaborative Spirit: This role is not just about individual performance but also about teamwork. A genuine enjoyment of collaborating with colleagues and supporting each other in a busy retail environment is a key attribute.
• Calm Under Pressure: The retail environment can be fast-paced. The ability to remain calm and effective when faced with challenges or busy periods is a valuable trait.
• Growth Mindset: AkzoNobel values individuals who enjoy ongoing coaching and support to advance their careers and build skills. A proactive approach to learning and professional development will align well with the company's ethos.
• Understanding of Sales and Market Share: While a direct sales background isn't explicitly mandatory, the job purpose highlights maximizing sales and market share. An understanding of how to contribute to these goals through excellent customer service will be beneficial.

This Sales Assistant position at Dulux Decorator Centre offers a unique opportunity to blend customer service excellence with an understanding of product sales within a supportive and growth-oriented organization. It's an excellent stepping stone for those looking to build a career in retail and contribute to a company that colors the world.