Before your shift: the essentials
Check your shift confirmation
It may sound obvious, but this is one of the most common things people overlook. Your Fairson Job shift confirmation contains everything you need to know before you arrive, including:
- The exact location of your shift. (Keep in mind that the entrance for inventory associates isn't always the store's main entrance. Check whether you've been asked to use a staff or service entrance.)
- Your start time : make sure you arrive on time.
- The name or contact details of your Inventory Supervisor.
- Any site-specific instructions you need to follow.
Make a habit of checking your shift confirmation the evening before and again on the day of your shift. It's also a good idea to save the address in your sat nav or map app before you leave, rather than doing it at the last minute.
Plan your journey
Stocktaking shifts start at a fixed time, and the whole team begins together. Unlike many other jobs, one person arriving late can delay the entire operation. Aim to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to allow for traffic, parking or finding the correct entrance. Arriving early always makes a good first impression. Arriving late (even by just a few minutes) doesn't.
Make sure you're ready for the shift
A stocktaking shift means spending several hours on your feet, sometimes in cool stockrooms or large warehouse environments. It's not physically demanding, but it's an active job. Before you leave, make sure you've:
- Had a good night's sleep.
- Eaten a proper meal before your shift.
- Packed a bottle of water if you tend to get thirsty during longer shifts.
What should you wear for a stocktaking shift?
What you wear matters more than you might think. Choosing the right clothing will keep you comfortable throughout your shift and help you make a good impression.
Clothing
Choose clothes that are comfortable and practical.
- Jeans or comfortable trousers are ideal. You'll be bending, crouching and sometimes reaching into tight spaces, so avoid anything too restrictive or overly smart.
- A plain T-shirt or simple shirt works perfectly.
- Bring a warm jumper or fleece in your bag, as stockrooms and warehouses can be cool — even during the summer.
Footwear
This is by far the most important part of your outfit, and one of the things new starters underestimate the most. You'll be on your feet for four to six hours, often on hard floors such as concrete or tiles. The wrong shoes can quickly make your shift uncomfortable.
Choose:
- Comfortable trainers or walking shoes with good cushioning and support.
- Shoes you've already worn and know are comfortable.
Avoid:
- Flat shoes with little cushioning.
- High heels, sandals or flip-flops.
- Brand-new shoes: your first shift isn't the time to break them in.
Jewellery and accessories
Keep things simple and practical. Avoid bulky jewellery, such as large bracelets or oversized rings, as they can get in the way when using the handheld scanners. A simple wristwatch is absolutely fine.
What should you bring with you?
The good news is that you won't need much. Everything required for your stocktaking shift (including handheld scanners and any other equipment) will be provided on site by Fairson. You only need to bring a few essentials.
Essentials
- Your smartphone with the Fairson Job app installed. Your shift confirmation is available in the app, and your Inventory Supervisor may ask you to confirm your attendance through it.
- A valid photo ID. Some locations, particularly larger retailers with controlled access, may ask you to show identification before entering.
- A bottle of water. Staying hydrated during several hours of active work is always a good idea.
- A light snack if you're working a longer shift or haven't had much to eat beforehand. A cereal bar or some dried fruit is usually enough.
What to leave at home
- Large bags or bulky luggage, as storage facilities are not always available.
- Unnecessary valuables that you don't need during your shift.
How to make a great first impression
You'll quickly learn the technical side of the job on site. What really sets you apart on your first stocktaking shift is your attitude.
Introduce yourself and ask questions
When you arrive, find the Inventory Supervisor, introduce yourself and let them know it's your first Fairson Job shift. There's no need to feel embarrassed about saying so. In fact, it's helpful, as your supervisor will make sure you receive any extra guidance you need. Don't wait for someone to come to you. Be approachable, proactive and ready to get started from the moment you arrive.
Listen carefully to the briefing
Before every shift, the Inventory Supervisor will give a team briefing covering safety, how the shift will run, how to use the equipment and which areas everyone has been assigned. This is one of the most important parts of the shift. Put your phone away, listen carefully, and ask questions afterwards if anything isn't clear. It's always better to ask than to guess.
If you're unsure, ask
At some point you'll probably come across something unexpected: a product that's difficult to scan, an item that doesn't match the system, or a shelf layout you weren't expecting. If you're not sure what to do, don't guess.
Speak to your supervisor or an experienced colleague and ask for guidance. It's far better to ask a quick question than to make a mistake that affects the stock count.
Focus on accuracy, not speed
Stocktaking isn't a race. Accuracy is always more important than speed. A careful inventory associate who gets things right is far more valuable than someone who rushes and makes mistakes. The pace will come naturally as you gain experience. On your first shift, concentrate on doing the job properly.
Stay until the shift is finished
A stocktaking shift finishes when the entire site has been counted, not when you've completed your own section. If you finish early, let your supervisor know and offer to help elsewhere. It's a simple gesture that leaves a very positive impression. And don't start packing up or heading for the exit until the Inventory Supervisor has officially confirmed that the shift is over.
Common mistakes to avoid
Even with the best intentions, there are a few mistakes that first-time inventory associates make time and time again.
Arriving late
This is by far the most noticeable (and most damaging) mistake.
Turning up late disrupts the whole team from the very start and creates a poor first impression.
The best solution is simple: leave early and give yourself plenty of time.
Not checking your shift confirmation
Arriving at the wrong location, using the wrong entrance or calling the store instead of your Inventory Supervisor can usually be avoided by reading your shift confirmation carefully the day before.
Guessing when you're unsure
It's worth repeating: if you're not sure what to do, don't guess. A single mistake can affect the accuracy of the entire stock count.
Instead, stop, ask your supervisor or an experienced colleague, and wait for clear instructions.
Leaving before the shift is over
Never leave the site until your Inventory Supervisor has confirmed that the shift has officially finished.
Even if you've completed your own section, leaving without permission may be viewed negatively and could affect your progress within the Talent Factory.
Spending too much time on your phone
Keep your phone with you, but only use it when it's needed for your shift. During the briefing and while you're working, stay focused on the task at hand. Being attentive, engaged and available to your team will always leave a better impression than checking your messages.
After your shift: what's next?
Your first stocktaking shift is complete: congratulations! Here's what to do once you get home.
Check the app
Within the following hours or days, your payslip and details of your shift performance will be available in the Fairson Job app. Take a few minutes to review everything.
Check your Talent Factory progress
Every shift you complete helps you progress through the Talent Factory. See whether you've moved up a level and find out what's needed to unlock the next one.
Apply for your next shift
The best way to build confidence is to keep going. If you enjoyed your first shift (and chances are you will) don't wait too long before applying for another one. The more regularly you work, the faster you'll progress through the Talent Factory and unlock even more opportunities.
In summary: your first shift checklist
Before you leave, run through this quick checklist:
☑ I've checked my shift confirmation, including the address, start time and supervisor's details.
☑ I've planned my journey and allowed an extra 15–20 minutes.
☑ I'm wearing comfortable clothes and supportive shoes.
☑ I've packed my phone, photo ID, water and a light snack.
☑ I've eaten before leaving.
☑ I'll pay close attention during the pre-shift briefing.
☑ If I'm unsure about anything, I'll ask instead of guessing.
☑ I'll stay until my Inventory Supervisor confirms the shift is over.
You're all set.
Your first stocktaking shift is often the one you'll remember most. With a little preparation, there's every chance you'll remember it for all the right reasons.
Good luck with your first shift!