Chandni Mistry

I worked as part of the General Merchandise team in the Ladieswear department. During this period, I worked within a large team in accordance to a strict rota of duties and standards, to ensure that all work was kept to a high standard. An exceptional level of product and store knowledge was a predominant aspect of providing an excellent service. I dealt with customers in a professional and calm manner, ensuring to maintain the high standards that M&S endeavours to consistently achieve.

I held the role of a Student Ambassador alongside studying at the University. As a Student Ambassador I provided assistance by promoting the full range of programmes offered - both on and off campus. In addition, help was given in supporting and delivering tailored events for selected target groups of children of all ages. For example, I have helped to co-ordinate open days by meeting prospective students and parents by sharing my experiences whilst attending the University of Winchester.

Part time volunteer at BHF retail shop in Winchester whilst being at university and helped to organise stock and donations, work as a store cashier and to promote the ‘Gift Aid’ scheme.

Government funded project aimed to support targeted learners as they progress through school in order to assist with their transition at 16 and subsequently to Higher Education (HE). One hour face to face sessions and e-mentoring engagement was held with the group of learners, where each session focused on a certain aspect of Further Education or HE. For example, one session was focused on looking at careers, where the session looked into the interests of the students and the possible avenues that were avaiable for them, the purpose of an interview etc. Thus the overall experience was to develop good relationships with the learners in order to share and reflect on experiences about education and its relation to HE. This experience allowed me to act as an aspirational and positive HE role model.

Having worked as a full time sales assistant during this period, emphasis was placed on speed to delivery in order to increase sale takings. Tasks involved helping customers with product selection and answering any querires, helping to keep the store tidy and presentable and working on the tills. Whilst also given responsibility to cash up (manually) at the end of each day by the third day of starting.

A strong 17 member team that produced two successful products. As a team we learnt about all aspects of business, from market research to sales to the highs and lows of team cohesion. Not only was I was in charge of completing all company documents and administering company meetings, I had responsiblity of communication and co-ordination within the team and worked with other departments.

Two week work experience provided insight into the daily runnings undertaken by a hotel chain, having gained access to both the Human Resources and the Reservations department.

Duties included typing and sending out external letters, constructing company brochures and helping with the organising of events whilst also asisting with admin duties.