Maria Long

Highly experienced Retail Assistant with 15 years of hands-on experience delivering excellent customer service in fast-paced retail environments. Skilled in stock management, cash handling, visual merchandising, and supporting customers with confidence and professionalism. Recognised for a friendly, approachable manner and the ability to build rapport quickly with customers and colleagues.

Reliable, hardworking, and adaptable, with a strong track record of meeting targets and maintaining high store standards. Now looking for a new opportunity to bring my experience, enthusiasm, and customer-focused approach to a forward-thinking retail team.

Sales Assistant - Poundland - Washington

(2012-09)

• Welcoming and assisting customers, answering queries, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.
• Operating the till, handling cash and card transactions.
• Sorting, pricing, and displaying items, ensuring the shop floor remained tidy and well-organised.
• Working closely with other staff to maintain smooth shop operations.
• Following safety procedures, including safe lifting practices and emergency protocols.

Actively Seeking Employment - Actively Seeking Employment

(2012-01 - 2012-08)

Customer Service Adviser - Hewlett Packard - Gateshead

(2011-10 - 2011-12)

• Delivered high-quality customer service for Hewlett-Packard products, offering expert advice on laptops, printers, and accessories.
• Provided first-line technical support, including device setup, troubleshooting, and software installation.
• Assisted customers with HP warranty, repair bookings, and product registration.
• Demonstrated detailed product knowledge to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
• Resolved customer enquiries efficiently and professionally across multiple communication channels.

Actively Seeking Employment - Actively Seeking Employment

(2011-02 - 2011-09)

Store Colleague - ASDA - Newcastle

(2010-10 - 2011-01)

• Served customers at checkouts and provided friendly, helpful service across the store.
• Replenished stock, rotated products, and maintained excellent merchandising standards.
• Worked flexibly in multiple departments—checkouts, shop floor, and George clothing.
• Helped customers with product queries and ensured a positive shopping experience throughout the store.
• Supported smooth store operations in a fast-paced retail environment, contributing to strong team performance.

Actively Seeking Employment - Actively Seeking Employment

(2006-10 - 2010-09)

Assembly Operator - Saia Burgess Electronics - Gateshead

(1999-09 - 2006-09)

• Assembled electronic and mechanical components according to precise specifications and quality standards.
• Operated and maintained production line equipment, resolving basic mechanical issues to minimise downtime.
• Conducted quality inspections on components and finished products, reporting any defects promptly.
• Supported material flow by moving components between workstations and maintaining an organised workspace.
• Ensured compliance with all safety procedures and maintained accurate production records.

Sewing Machinist - Claremont Garments - South Shields

(1994-04 - 1999-08)

• Operate industrial sewing machines to stitch garment sections or textile products according to patterns and specifications.
• Feed fabric pieces through machines and stitch full garments or component parts accurately.
• Adjust machine settings such as tension, stitch type, needle type, and speed for different fabrics and jobs.
• Maintain high standards of craftsmanship, ensuring garments meet company quality requirements.
• Collaborate with colleagues and production supervisors to maintain workflow.

St Josephs Comprehensive School (1981 - 1985)