A few weeks back I met with the Wheatsheaf trust with a view to aiding them with their marketing, and in doing so gain some valuable "experience" and skills which would make me more employable. That didn't work out unfortunately so I went back to the drawing board as it were and looked for other organisations.
As it turned out another organisation, solent credit union were looking for someone to get involved with the marketing side of things. I got an email late last night asking if I would like to meet a representative for an informal chat this morning.
I did so, feeling the more professional for my long black woolen coat arriving at a local community centre which seemed to be mostly empty apart from a few individuals, evidently running a pick up point for the credit union. Phil, as he introduced himself began to take me through the history of the union and we chatted for around an hour, infringing upon the staff who were preparing a lunchtime meal as I was given an excellent overview of what a credit union does, the state of things, the future and what I could do.
The upshot is they would like me to come in and turn around their self confessed "bad marketing." I would be part of a team but effectively act as a consultant, as someone from outside looking at the organisation. There is a budget to spend and the ambition to expand the customer base and therefore the overall amount of money the organisation makes.* Its basically a marketers dream. Though as someone inexperienced in the actual processes of marketing I am approaching with enthusiasm but also trepidation.
I am now meeting with Phil again next Wednesday where I will sign the many many forms necessary to begin volunteering. The step after that being to meet the board and the marketing team and then begin volunteering.
Clearly I would prefer a paying position but whilst I continue to search this seems like an excellent opportunity. A little break and a possible ladder.
This means my next week is now quite busy. Job centre- Tuesday, charity meeting - Wednesday The dreaded dentist - Thursday and Interview with Fubra - Friday.
Certainly a nice change from the norm.**
* The way credit unions work, they dont exactly make money, they keep other peoples, but the principle is basically the same.
** With the exception of the dentist of course
Dear Anthony,I am Judy, It's lucky to find your blog,becuase i am interested in volunteering in Solent Credit Union. Could you tell me more about the informal chart? such as,what did they ask?Did they give you any test? Is it a competitive opportunity? The website information shows that all volunteers must join the credit union before commencing their volunteering role. So how much do I need to put into the saving account?Is it a competitive opportunity?
ReplyDeleteThanks
Dear Judy,
ReplyDeleteGlad you found this then. I certainly can give you more information.
The informal chat is exactly that. I met with Phil at the local community centre and he told me about the credit union and where I could get involved. There was no test and it is not a competitive opportunity.
You do have to join yes because the way a credit union works is it is a co-operative. You have to pay £1 to join and then put a £1 into your account, which you can withdraw when you close the account.
What area are you interested in volunteering in? There are a number of different options open to you depending on what sort of skills you wish to develop.
Hope this is of some help to you :)
What kind of position does the Union offer?If I want to develop marketing skills, do I need to have any marketing background?Thanks.
ReplyDeleteAs it is all volunteer based the Union does not offer positions as such. You just state what it is you wish to do. Have you had any contact with anyone else at the Union yet?
ReplyDeleteIf you want to develop Marketing skills that is excellent. I am currently working as Marketing Officer and welcome anyone who wants to help. You do not need a marketing background, though some knowledge in the area is useful. May I ask your background and what attracted you to the Union?
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ReplyDeleteDear Anthony,
ReplyDeleteI just have recived a email from the union.It's not very helpful.
Marketing officers may perform the following tasks:
identify and analyse an organisation's strengths and weaknesses, and respond to opportunities and threats in the marketing environment
set goals for market share and growth
develop and implement appropriate strategies by selecting, segmenting and targeting markets, and promoting products and services to those markets
make decisions regarding products, such as choosing labels or packaging
work on developing new products
work out an approach to pricing and set prices for products and services
manage distribution channels such as shops and wholesalers
make decisions regarding the distribution of products (such as taking orders, warehousing, stock control and transport), manage store image or undertake direct marketing
develop plans for advertising, sales promotion, public relations, personal selling and sales management
undertake marketing audits to monitor sales performance.
Could I know what do you normally do in the union?
How many hours do you spend on this volunteering job?
Do you think this job is good for your career?
Thanks.
Your right that isnt helpful. I am around most mornings so will be happy to have a chat with you regarding all these things via msn since you have added me. Its easier to explain in conversation rather than simple text in a comments box :)
ReplyDeleteAlternatively I am happy to arrange a specific time for a chat if that would prove preferable to you
ReplyDelete