NUS Co-op is more than JUST a bookstore: Did you know a good number of NUS Co-op Part Time Staff are actually Students?! Let’s hear what they have to say!

Introducing Belle (Year 2, Economics), Dun Liang (Year 3, Computing) and Jaslynn (Year 2, Literature). From PT Retail Assistants to Social Media Associate, here’s what they’ve learnt during their time at NUS Co-op!

1. Can you share with us more about your job scope and the duration you’ve been working at NUS Co-op so far?

DL: I was employed as a Retail Assistant at The Museum Shop in Lee Kong Chian Natural Museum. My primary responsibilities encompassed promoting the products available at the store, addressing customer inquiries, arranging merchandise, and managing cashier duties. I was responsible for this role since June 2022, accumulating approximately one year and a half of experience till I started my overseas exchange recently. During the last two years, I also had the opportunity to involve in other NUS Co-op’s projects such as Commencement and Year End Stocktake.

JW: I’m currently employed as a Part Time Social Media Associate at NUS Co-op for about 10 months now. I manage the NUS Co-op Social Media accounts, and also help to organize and plan social media content for campaigns!

Belle: I have been a Retail Assistant at the The Museum Shop for about 8 months. I am mostly rostered to work on Sundays as well as on some other days when the Co-op outlets need help and if I am available for any of those dates.

2. ⁠What are some of the things you’ve enjoyed while working at NUS Co-op?

DL: One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience at NUS Co-op has been the amicable atmosphere fostered by the senior staff and supervisors. Their friendliness and approachability have not only facilitated a positive working environment but have also contributed significantly to my professional development. The supportive nature of the team has allowed me to feel valued and encouraged, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that enhances productivity and job satisfaction. Overall, the welcoming and supportive culture has been one of the most cherished aspects of my tenure with the organization.

(DL) Dun Liang (Year 3, Computing) 

JW: I enjoy working at NUS Co-op as it offers me a lot of flexibility! I am able to juggle both my studies and my part time job at the same time. I also enjoy working with the NUS Co-op team when making social media content. I like how game they are when I come down to film some content for social media.

Belle: A rewarding yet challenging experience. I enjoy working at NUS Co-op as I have the chance to interact with customers from all walks of life that I would otherwise not have the opportunity to meet. I also enjoy the flexibility provided for students, which allow me to juggle both my studies and my work simultaneously.

3. ⁠What is one key takeaway you’ve had while working here?

DL: One significant takeaway from my experience at NUS Co-op has been the invaluable enhancement of my listening and communication skills. Interacting with a diverse range of customers has presented numerous opportunities to refine my ability to actively listen to their needs and effectively communicate solutions or product information. Engaging in meaningful conversations with customers has not only strengthened my interpersonal skills but has also deepened my understanding of their preferences and expectations. Each request by a customer presents a unique challenge that requires quick thinking and adaptability to provide satisfactory solutions. Whether it's locating specific items, addressing inquiries, or resolving concerns, I've learned to approach each situation with patience and resourcefulness. These experiences have not only enriched my problem-solving skills but have also instilled a sense of confidence in my ability to overcome obstacles and deliver exceptional customer service.

JW: One key takeaway I had while working in NUS Co-op was that my ideas matter, as a student, it’s so easy to assume that your thoughts and ideas are not important or not “good enough”. However, while working in NUS Co-op as a social media associate, I was able to expand on my ideas and learn more about social media marketing. NUS Co-op has given me a platform to expand my creativity through Instagram.

Belle: I am able to enhance my skills in communication and problem-solving by handling different problems while on the job. This job has also taught me how to think on my feet, for example, customers might come in requesting for a gift for children or their younger family members. One such gift I recommended would be the dinosaur play set from GeoWorld, this gift would definitely entertain young kids for a substantial period of time.

(Belle) Belle Heng (Year 2, Economics)

4. ⁠While working at NUS Co-op, whether it be store fronting or handling the back-end logistics, you will meet people of different cultures, backgrounds, and all age groups from all over the world. What do you think is the most important thing when communicating with people from a different background from you?

DL: When communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds at NUS Co-op, the most crucial aspect is cultivating a mindset of openness and respect. Understanding and appreciating cultural differences while being mindful of potential language barriers are essential to effective communication. It's important to approach interactions with curiosity and a willingness to learn about others' perspectives and customs. Active listening, empathy, and patience play pivotal roles in bridging cultural gaps and fostering meaningful connections. By embracing diversity and showing genuine interest in others' experiences, we can create an inclusive and harmonious environment where everyone feels valued and understood, ultimately enhancing teamwork and customer satisfaction in the organization.

JW: The most important thing when interacting with individuals is to understand where they are coming from. As a student, I had the chance to work with many different groups of people including NUS Co-op staff, NUS Co-op’s business partners and local/international students from different schools and faculties. To create social media content, I frequently need to interview students to make interesting videos. I enjoy talking to different people and learning about their course, as well as their life outside the school.

(JW) Jaslynn Wong (Year 2, Literature)

Belle: When interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds, my primary focus is to understand the customers' intended meaning and provide them with the greatest support within my capabilities. In addition, I typically analyse how various customers interact and communicate because non-verbal cues and communication styles can vary among individuals from different backgrounds.

NUS Co-op seeks to provide NUS students with both a platform to earn some extra pocket money, and to learn the ropes for retail, marketing, etc.

Interested in joining the NUS Co-op Team? Keep an eye out of our next recruitment exercise!