1.How would you describe good customer service?

• The company may ask this question because they want to be sure that your idea of good customer service matches theirs.
• Remember: working in retail is more than simply selling, it’s also about delivering a great experience that the customer recalls and motivates them to buy with the business again.
• To answer this question well, reference a moment where you gave or got good customer service. That way you aren’t only proving you understand the dictionary definition of good customer service, but that you also know how to actually put it into reality.

Correct answer: “I believe good customer service is making consumers feel welcome and calm while shopping with us. I always welcome individuals coming into the store with a ‘Hello’ and a smile, but make sure not to make them feel forced into a purchase right away. It’s also about offering consumers what they need, whether this is answering a query they have about a product or showing them where something is in store.. In my prior work in a department store, I had a customer ask me a question regarding an item from a different department. Although it wasn’t in my area of expertise, I instantly phoned someone from the other department who could help out...

Incorrect answer: “It’s when you pretend the consumer is always correct (even if they’re typically wrong)”.

2.What hours can you work?

• When it comes to retail jobs, one of the most prevalent questions is about your availability.
• You may be required to work specified shifts for the job you're interviewing for. Employers want to know if you are available for these hours, or if not, what hours you are available for. They may, however, be searching for someone who can fill in for extra hours if the need arises. As a result, it's possible that the more adaptable you are, the better your chances of getting recruited.
• The most important thing to keep in mind is to be truthful. Employers will understand if you have other obligations, so being honest from the start will be appreciated.

Correct answer: “I’m available to work on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8 am to 3 pm. If you’re able to give me some notice, I can work some weekends as well. I’m keen to get as many shifts as possible.”

Incorrect answer: “Not sure. It changes from week to week, to be honest”

3.The card machine is broken, how do you explain this to customers?

• It's no secret that buyers prefer to pay with a credit card because it's more convenient than carrying cash. Something that has also risen as a result of the pandemic. But what happens if the card machine breaks down?
• This question is most likely being asked by the employer to evaluate how you react to situations that are beyond your control, as well as how you communicate with clients in difficult situations.
• It's a good idea to keep your coworkers and customers informed as soon as possible. It's also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your ability to think creatively in order to find a solution - even if the issue appears to be difficult at the time.

Correct answer: “Firstly, I’d inform my manager so they can arrange for the card machine to be fixed or replaced. I’d also suggest putting announcements out over the tannoy system, if there is one, so that customers are aware that payment can only be made by cash. As I’m serving customers, I’d apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused, and also direct them to the nearest cashpoint if they needed to find somewhere to withdraw cash”

Incorrect answer: “I’d probably let my manager handle it… ”.

4.What products do we sell?

• This question is all about demonstrating your ability to conduct research. What is your level of familiarity with the brand? And how do you feel about the product line it has to offer?
• Start here if you've been to one of its stores before or if you're a regular shopper. And remember to be specific. What was it about the store that you liked? What compelled you to return?
• Finish by naming one or two products that you enjoy, and you'll demonstrate that you're more than just a good prospect. You're also a die-hard supporter of the brand.

Correct answer: “You’re one of the nation’s favourite houseware retailers. In fact, I recently visited a store local to me, and I was impressed by the range of household and garden furniture and accessories you sold. The manager of the garden department was very friendly and helped me choose an outdoor dining set.”

Incorrect answer: “Dreams?”