Tearcraft aims to bring good news to people who are poor by providing them with meaningful employment. The income generated by every candleholder, wooden bowl or necklace means better standards of living for families caught in poverty, as well as providing dignity and self-worth.
What will I do?
The main purpose of the role is to encourage people to buy Tearcraft products. More sales mean that more people are employed to make the goods. Most sellers start out by
- giving Tearcraft catalogues to colleagues, friends, neighbours, family and local groups - encouraging them to order items
- using the display or jewellery kits to generate orders - at events, home parties and in church
- collating customer orders into one bulk order and forwarding to Tearcraft, who will then deliver the goods to your home
- distributing the orders to the customers
However, many of you may want to go further - running stalls at events, giving talks to inspire people about alternative trade or encouraging others to get involved. You could choose to
- present a Christian view of fair trade by talking to customers or small groups (cell, house, youth or prayer groups) about the work of Tearcraft and about the producers
- recruit others by encouraging friends, contacts and customers to sell Tearcraft goods themsleves; making a list of customers who would like to hear more about the work of Tearfund or giving out Tearfund literature and encouraging people to sign up for Tear Times
How much time will I need to give?
As much or as little as you have available. It's up to you.
Selling activity is generally concentrated in the pre-Christmas period. Tearcraft produces two catalogues each year - the main Christmas catalogue containing around 400 products (including Christmas cards) and a smaller catalogue featuring jewellery and accessories. Both are launched and mailed in August each year. The jewellery and accessories catalogue continues to be 'live' through the spring and summer to enable you to promote and sell Tearcraft throughout the year if your interest and circumstances permit this.
What do I need for this role?
- a commitment to the mission and values of Tearfund and Tearcraft
- an interest in making a difference to the lives of craft producers through the sales you generate
- an ability to keep track of money and orders
- enthusiasm for speaking with customers about Tearcraft
- access to email and the internet would be extremely useful though not essential
How will you support me?
You will receive a monthly newsletter, called Bulletin, containing updates about producers, products and other Tearcraft activities and any important information that may affect your orders. You will be put in touch with a Tearcraft Sales Coordinator who will be able to answer general questions, and Tearcraft's customer service team will provide you with specific information about your orders and deliveries.
From time to time you will be invited to meet with other Tearcraft Sellers in your area for training and discussion, and to plan joint activities. A Tearcraft sample event will take place in your region each year where you can see new products, meet staff and hear news of the producers.
How will I benefit?
- you'll have the satisfaction of participating in a trading enterprise that brings help and hope to poor people around the world
- you'll become part of the worldwide Tearfund family
- we'll give you regular feedback on the difference that your contribution makes
- you will receive a discount on the orders that you place to help cover your costs
To apply for this role, please click here.