Retail assistant Review

by Iceland

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

10/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Day to day I interact with customers on a face to face basis. Answering any queries they have, serving them at the till and dealing with in store home deliveries. I also help to sort the online orders whether they come via the company's website or Uber eats. Cash and stock handling are also a regular activity.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have only just started my apprenticeship but I have already learned how to reduce stock prices to avoid waste as they come close to their sell by date. Also what process to follow with items that come into store frozen but need to be defrosted before they can be put on the shelf to sell.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I am finding the programme very enjoyable so far. It is great being able to learn new things after being out of school so long. I already knew the basics, but I am now learning about what is needed for the shop to run smoothly behind what the customer sees

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is structured really well. At any time I can log into my account and see what work needs to be done and when it needs doing by. I can see work thats been completed, evidence I have submitted. There is a timescale to everything so no pressure to get everything done at once.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

My employer is always available for help and support whenever needed. All the management staff are enthusiastic to show me new things and help me understand the processes involved. I have no hesitations picking up the phone or sending a message when I am not in store to ask for help.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

My training provider is only a message away whenever needed. I can message a number of people from my account depending on what my need is. My trainer checks in regularly and schedules the next face to face meeting at the current one so I always know we will have a progress check.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I am definitely more enthusiastic about my role now. Having worked for the company for years, it is nice to be able to learn new things and have a goal to work towards. I am looking forward to what the next challenge will be once I have completed this one.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Iceland to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Iceland are a great family orientated company. Staffwise they have flexible hours for parents and a friendly sense of belonging within the company. A generous staff discount for all team members and an app for outside discounts. Incentives and little competitions keep staff engaged in active selling and add a bit of fun to the job

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Iceland?

Be honest and friendly. A good, hard working ethic is needed as the environment is fast paced.