Halfords

The questions on everyone's lips

• There’s a lot of employers out there... What made you choose us?

  For me, Halfords represents great career prospects, a massive variety in your day-to-day routine and a great atmosphere in store. Combine that with a great brand image, and fantastic in-house training opportunities and it's a no-brainer!

• Tell us a bit about your role…

  The Deputy Manager is responsible for in-store operations as a second in command to the Store Manager. Working alongside the Store Manager and Department Supervisor, it is my job to ensure the smooth running of the store for colleagues and customers alike.

• What do you get up to on a typical day?

  A day in the life of a Deputy Manager would entail preparing the store for trading by ensuring key processes are followed, briefing colleagues on targets and achievements and assigning tasks to be completed throughout the day. During the day, I will be serving customers where required, and offering support to my colleagues.

• What’s the best thing about working here?

  The people, by far. Halfords has some fantastic teams in its stores, and some amazing guys in the Support Centre on hand for any queries.

• What challenges have you faced and how did you deal with them?

  Working in retail, you encounter all sorts of challenges in your time. From customer concerns to colleagues, training and development scheduling, to trying to be the best store in the company. A calm and collected attitude and support from my colleagues, both in store and in the Support Centre, means challenges can be overcome and learned from!

• Tell us about the training and development...

  Halfords has so many different ways to develop your abilities I'm not sure where to start! For a new starter and current colleagues the e-Learning programme provides a wealth of information on processes, products and services. For those looking to further their career, there is a training programme that gives colleagues the opportunity to learn the ropes of management and support them through their journey to the top!

• What's been your biggest achievement?

  For me, being a part of the three trial stores for the 50:39 store project was phenomenal, it really shows the positive direction the company wants to head in! On a more personal level, graduating from the management training programme was a huge highlight for me, as it marked my permanent appointment as Deputy Manager.

• What do you think makes someone successful at Halfords?

  Embracing the values is important. If you work to these and combine them with a positive attitude, you'll get where you want to be.

• And, to anyone thinking about applying, what would you tell them?

  Go for it! It's a fantastic opportunity, and you'll learn so much about cars, bikes, and yourself. You don't get on the 25 Best Big Companies to Work For list three years in a row for nothing!