On Wednesday 26th September, a team of volunteers from the Marks and Spencer head office visited City of Westminster College to share their negotiation skills with our Level 3 Business and Level 1 Sports students.

A number of interesting facts, tips and dispelling of some myths regarding negotiation were shared. In the afternoon, sport students had the opportunity to sell themselves by attending mock but virtual interviews with the volunteers before having the chance to ask questions themselves to the M&S Team. This allowed the team to justify the prices of some of their products (such as smoothies and sandwiches) as well as share some hints and tips regarding a successful career at M&S as well as 21st Century retail business in general.

Daniel Kennedy, CWC’s Enterprise and Employability Co-ordinator, said “I think it was a great opportunity for a range of students to improve their business and general employability skills by being encouraged out of their comfort zones, which evidently increased the confidence of many. The team of volunteers from M&S immediately built a strong rapport with students in both sessions and both sides were subsequently able to get the best out of each other.” 

“The M&S volunteers had a great day supporting students at City Westminster College. They were impressed by how perceptive the students were with their questions and comments throughout both the negotiation training and afternoon interview exercise, as well as being entertained by some of the more unusual questions they were asked. It was a valuable opportunity for the volunteers to develop their skills in public speaking and delivering material to a new audience, whilst hopefully providing students with valuable insight into the world of business, the challenges currently being faced and the skills you need to succeed.” Said Emily Parkes, Community Programme Manager, Paddington Partnership