General Assistant

Full job description

President Ridge, Gauteng

Permanent – N/A

8 hrs p/day

Work schedule: As Needed

TBC p/hour

Start date: ASAP

Job description

This is a summary of what the job involves to help you decide if you are a good fit.

We are looking for a General Assistant to join our team!


As a General Assistant, you will play a key role in ensuring our customers have a pleasant shopping experience. You will assist customers in locating items, answering questions, processing payments, and maintaining a clean and organized store environment. Your friendly and helpful attitude is essential in providing excellent customer service and promoting a positive image for our store.

What you’ll do

This is a list of tasks that you will be responsible for doing on your days at work.

• Share accurate information about products, help customers choose, and show how to use them
• Solve customer problems and make sure customers are happy with the service
• Greet customers, offer help, and answer questions with a positive and friendly attitude
• Tell customers about sales and special offers to make shopping better
• Ensure customer satisfaction through excellent service
• Handle cash and card payments, issue receipts, and process refunds and exchanges correctly
• Receive deliveries, organize products, and keep track of stock
• Put products on shelves neatly and make sure they are always available
• Quickly restock items that are sold out
• Properly dispose of store and storeroom waste and put it in the skip bin
• Assist with stock takes
• Follow safety, security, and environmental rules, policies, and procedures, including what to do in emergencies
• Cleaning of designated areas such as storeroom, kitchen etc.

Requirements

This is a list of things you will need in order to be considered for this role

• Matric
• Experience: General Assistant, General Worker, General Clerk
• English
• Within 15km from job
• Clear criminal record

Preferences

Meeting the preferences would be a plus, but if you don’t, it won’t stop companies from considering you.

• South African candidates

Application Process

This is a list of things you will need to do when completing your application to this job.

Assessments required for application

• Potential Work Performance Assessment Battery

Questions required for application

• In which area do you currently live? (Please be specific in providing the suburb, district or city)
• How do you handle a situation where a customer is not satisfied with a product?
• Have you used a cash register or computer-based point of sale (POS) system before?
• Have you previously worked in a customer-facing role?
• Do you have experience with stock takes?
• What steps do you take to keep shelves and fridges full and tidy?
• What do you do if you notice a price label is incorrect?

 

Types of Jobs in General Work

You find these roles everywhere—from receptionists in offices to stockers in stores. Some common examples include:

• Administrative assistants
• Customer service representatives
• Warehouse workers
• Retail associates

Many start here to get their foot in the door or earn extra income. These roles can also serve as stepping stones for future career growth.

The Value of General Work in the Economy

Did you know that a large part of the workforce is in general jobs? Statistics show that over 70% of employment comes from entry-level and support roles. These jobs keep economy flowing by supporting bigger operations and enabling companies to stay profitable.

Essential Skills for Excelling in General Work

Communication Skills

Clear speaking and writing are must-haves. Whether you’re talking to customers or reporting to supervisors, being understood matters. Improving your communication can include:

• Listening more carefully
• Asking questions when unsure
• Keeping your message simple and direct

Time Management and Efficiency

Getting work done on time helps you stand out. Prioritize tasks by importance and use tools like calendars or checklists. Apps like Google Keep or Trello can help keep you organized. The goal? Finish your work without rushing, but still meet deadlines.

Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Unexpected issues happen often. Maybe a machine breaks or a customer is upset. Handling these smoothly shows your flexibility. For example, if inventory runs low, suggest alternative products or solutions. Being adaptable means you’re ready for anything—a skill that boosts your value.

Technical and Basic Computer Skills

Most workplaces use common software like MS Office, email, or POS systems. You don’t need to be a pro but knowing basics helps a lot. Online tutorials or free courses can improve these skills fast. Being tech-savvy makes your daily tasks easier and more efficient.

Best Practices for Job Performance and Career Growth

Maintaining Professionalism and Reliability

Show up on time, follow dress codes, and have a positive attitude. Dependable workers earn trust and better shifts. Small things like punctuality can go a long way to building your reputation.

Communication with Supervisors and Colleagues

Be polite and clear when talking with your boss or co-workers. Share progress regularly, ask for feedback, and work as a team. Respectful communication reduces conflicts and creates better work relationships.