This is Conor Downes. He is a third year UCD student who works part times in Woodies. Conor has been in the business for the last three years and is trained up in every aspect of the business, e.g balloon bar, paint mixing, key cutting etc. He thoroughly enjoys working in the business, noting "I have met so many great people and new friends from my time here. Unlike other part time jobs i've had, I look forward coming to work every weekend. It's a nice break from college and especially during COVID-19, it is a nice relaxer from the current situation."
Woodies was one of the select few businesses that was allowed to stay open during the level five lockdowns due to their essential items including paint, garden tools, homeware essentials, light bulbs and DIY and building materials.
At the moment, Conor is exclusively working on click-and-collect orders. Ordering online is encouraged as it limits the amount of people in the shops.
Here, Conor is cleaning up after a busy day of mixing paint. He is usually rostered for one hour after shop hours to clean up after the day and get ready for the next.
"I don't mind staying after hours because it's really quiet and I can get things done quickly. The majority of my friends here work weekends too and stay late, so it's nice to catch up. Especially at the moment when I'm not seeing anyone else."
A popular skill that Conor has learnt since joining the business is key cutting. You'd be surprised how many people come up and get a second house key cut because they've lost theirs!
Here, Conor is blowing up a balloon. In the background you can see all the different balloon options the store has. The balloons are blown up with a helium tank.
"During times of Holy Communions and Confirmation we are always run off our feet. Balloons are one of the most popular services we offer in the store."
Overall Conor seems to really enjoy his job. At the moment, in the level five lockdown, it is the only socialising he has!
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