TOFT has a history of working with textile students, and Kerry Lord has sponsored many final projects in the past. We are always willing to offer short work experience and longer internships throughout the year – but what does this involve? Our most recent interns, Amy and Rachel, talk us through their experiences so far, and they've worked in a variety of roles across the company including…
DISPATCH: We have helped to pack all kinds of orders, from every day customer ones to parcels for the biggest trade accounts like John Lewis and Amazon. Through this we have learned a lot about the postal service!
Best Bit: The teamwork, and seeing all the parcels packed and ready to dispatch.
STUDIO: Working in the studio has shown us how to present ourselves to customers. It has given us excellent product knowledge, presentation skills and shown us the importance of branding a luxury product.
Best bit: Helping to build the displays with the team.
WORKSHOPS: Teaching the workshops has been challenging in a variety of ways, but the feeling when someone learns how to crochet makes it all worth it!
Best bit: When someone is able to carry out the skill you've just taught them.
EVENTS: There have been many amazing experiences for us since we started at TOFT but one thing that stands out for both of us is TOFTfest, a two-day open day held for TOFT's 10th birthday in August this year. It was such a fun weekend working and celebrating with the whole TOFT team, whilst helping our guests with handmade crafts.
Best bit: Being part of the team.
COFFEE SHOP: We have learned some barista skills, how to work in a fast-paced environment effectively within a team and the difference between arabica and robusta coffee beans.
Best bit: Drinking a good cup of coffee you just made!
TRADE: From working in the Trade department we have learned all sorts of things, including how trade prices work and how to set up trade accounts. We have also attending supplier meetings where we have pitched and discussed new products and ideas.
Best bit: Seeing TOFT's kits go off to different places and being part of product development in a growing company.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Through customer service we have been answering the phone, talking to customers face to face in the studio and keeping track of TOFT on social media. We now have a better knowledge of how to deal with a variety of situations in a professional way.
Best bit: Making people happy and receiving positive feedback both online through reviews and comments, and face to face at shows and in the studio.
SHOWS: By taking TOFT on tour at shows we have gained first-hand experience selling products in a variety of different settings. We have also learned how to manage and set up our own trade stand.
Best bit: Seeing the finished stand after a day (sometimes more!) of construction.
"As a TOFT intern no two days are ever the same… This week we went on a road trip from TOFT HQ down to Cornwall to deliver alpaca fleece to the mill ready for spinning, and last week we were packing parcels from the Create and Craft show on Friday. From working away at shows to teaching workshops in the studio, as interns we get a chance to experience TOFT from all angles. The experience that we've gained is invaluable and is the perfect way to kick off our future careers. Three main things that we are taking away from this are a yarn addiction, coffee addiction and a lot of laughs."
If you are looking for work experience or internships at TOFT, you can get in touch with us now at [email protected].
