30 Crate and Barrel Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Crate and Barrel interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Crate and Barrel we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
The talented associates at Crate and Barrel form the dynamic teams that keep our company running and growing, so we're looking for the best. Talk to the interviewer about a time you went beyond the normal call of duty to do more for your customers, coworkers, or supervisor.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I recently had a customer who was moving into her own place alone for the first time, and she didn't have any sense of how to decorate her new home -- she had always relied on roommates and partners for home decor before. I spent some time getting to know her interests and lifestyle, then I put together a 'mini-display' of unique, personalized items that I thought she would love and would get her started on her journey to discover her home furnishings style. We had a great time together, and she was really grateful for all of the personalized service she received."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Last week I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff were complaining that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her workload so that she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help but also benefited me by way of organization."
Written by Jordan Henry
2. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
The retail industry is fast-paced and ever-changing; it's good to be adaptable and respond to unexpected situations because they're bound to happen from time to time in a retail setting. It's important for the interviewer to get a feel for how you respond to stress, so describe how you react when a problem arises on your way to work.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I always give myself an extra time-buffer when I leave for work in case something unexpected comes up. That way, I'm not stressed out if I'm delayed because I've already given myself extra time."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm really cool-headed and even-tempered, so I don't panic when something unexpected happens on my way to work. I had a flat tire a few months ago, but I immediately called my manager and let her know my situation so that she could cover the first few minutes of my shift in case I was late. I ended up arriving to work about fifteen minutes late, but my manager had everything under control."
Written by Jordan Henry
3. What do you hope to learn from this job at Crate and Barrel?
How to Answer
We offer extensive education and development programs here at Crate and Barrel to help our employees learn anything they care to learn about the retail industry and Crate and Barrel's business. There are limitless learning opportunities, so talk to the interviewer about what you're hoping to learn during your time with Crate and Barrel.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm currently in the process of earning a degree in textile design in the hopes that I can move my way up into that part of the retail industry in the future. I hope that this position at Crate and Barrel will get me started in the industry, that I can learn even more about what customers look for in strong, bold, innovative textiles, and that I can make industry connections that set me up for success in my future."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love learning new things, so I'm energized by any opportunities to get more information about Crate and Barrel's products so that I can share that information with our customers. I love the globally-inspired style here, so it's exciting to learn more about home furnishings around the world as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
4. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that performance incentives are a great idea. They keep an employee motivated to do a great job and ensure that they are on top of their KPI's. The majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I do not require performance incentives, to do a great job; however, small perks are always nice to have!"
Written by Jordan Henry
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
One of the many ways that Crate and Barrel attracts and retains top talent is through our competitive benefits package that is relevant to our employees' lives, both on and off the job. With a referral incentive program, transit and parking supplementation, crisis line, wellness program, and 401k -- we offer our part-time and full-time employees plenty of benefits to keep them happy and safe in their work and their lives. Talk to the interviewer about your compensation expectations.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I currently make minimum wage and am happy to being a position at Crate and Barrel in that same range. I'm hopeful that my hard work and attention to detail will earn me a promotion or pay increase after some time."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $12 per hour with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
Written by Jordan Henry
6. How can Crate and Barrel motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
The management team at Crate and Barrel cares about each employee as a unique individual, not just what they produce -- we're looking to hire and retain the best talent in the retail industry to be brand ambassadors in our stores. How can Crate and Barrel motivate you to do your best work?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel most motivated when I'm working with like-minded individuals who are all working together for a common goal. It's important to me that I get along with my coworkers and feel that my contributions to my team are being acknowledged and appreciated. When I feel like I"
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leaderboard and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
Crate and Barrel merchants collaborate with artists and designers around the world to create our unique, architecturally-inspired, high-quality products. Our brand is recognized for it's longevity and long-lasting products, so you can feel confident that your job is secure here at Crate and Barrel. What do you look for in a potential employer? What kinds of companies get your attention?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm passionate about the environment, so I need to work for a company that is doing its part to minimize it's environmental impact across the supply chain. I really appreciate that Crate and Barrel does so much good for the environment and that so many of their products are designed and crafted in the US. This is a company I would be proud to work for."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."
Written by Jordan Henry
8. We need reliable people on our team at Crate and Barrel. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2, and a note from my Doctor accompanied those. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am very committed to my employer and am only absent in events of sickness or the odd family emergency. I do my best always to be available and present when expected."
Written by Jordan Henry
9. What attracts you to working for a home furnishings retailer like Crate and Barrel?
How to Answer
We're looking for employees who are passionate about home design to be brand ambassadors for Crate and Barrel. Our products are designed to spark our customers' imaginations and last a lifetime. Talk to the interviewer about what makes you want to work for a company that specializes in helping customers live lives that they love in the moments that matter.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm really enthusiastic about helping people find exactly what they're looking for to turn their house into a home. Not everyone is really in touch with their personal style, and I think it would be really fun and rewarding to help customers feel confident in their home furnishing choices."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love decorating -- I'm constantly reorganizing my own space and helping my friends find unique items that add special touches to their own living spaces. I'm really hoping to do that as a career someday, and I'm hoping that the experience and connections I make at Crate and Barrel will set me up for success in the future."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. Personality fit is important to us at Crate and Barrel. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
At Crate and Barrel, our employees aren't just employees -- they're passionate members of a design-minded team. Their unique personalities make Crate and Barrel everything that we are, so talk to the interviewer about your unique personality and what you would add to the Crate and Barrel team.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm very diligent and self-motivated. I don't need a lot of external influence to do my best work, go the extra mile, and make genuine connections with customers. When I love what I'm doing, I'm a total perfectionist, so I bring an extra attention to detail to everything I do."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
Written by Jordan Henry
11. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
You cannot force others to communicate with you in a way that you would always prefer. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have handled a supervisor who does not interact with you in a way that you like.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Whenever I have had a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. Sometimes you have to relate to others in their style to be understood."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have had great supervisors in my previous positions; however, if faced with a communication challenge like this, I would ask the supervisor how I could improve communication between us. Rather than placing blame, I believe it's always more effective to ask for growth recommendations."
Written by Jordan Henry
12. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The management team at Crate and Barrel is always on the lookout for ways that they can bring out the best in their team -- they have a keen eye for potential and a love of watching their team grow stronger together. Describe a positive relationship you've had with a manager in the past. What made this relationship so successful?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The best manager I ever had really embodied the servant-leadership paradigm. She made it a common practice to have one-on-one meetings with each of her team-members every month or so to talk about our engagement in the work as well as what she could be doing better to bring out our best. The fact that she asked what she could be doing better instead of assuming her employees were the ones with room for improvement spoke volumes to me. She's a leader I really admire."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best with a manager who allows me autonomy while still investing time in me through mentorship and training. Can you describe the management style here?"
Written by Jordan Henry
13. Why is this job with Crate and Barrel right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
If you're looking to take your career to the next level, Crate and Barrel wants to help: we offer extensive development programs, and we encourage our associates to follow their individual interests and take an active role in guiding their own careers. What are your personal career goals? How can Crate and Barrel help you achieve your goals?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been working in retail part time for a number of years, but I feel like I'm really ready to take my career to the next level. Someday, I'm hopeful that I can manage a store or even open my own small business, and I know I have a lot to learn about the industry. I'm just getting started, and I know that Crate and Barrel is the right place to help me create the career of my dreams."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in Communication while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
Written by Jordan Henry
14. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
We're constantly learning, growing, and evolving our company and in-store experience, and we're always eager to hear the ideas and suggestions of our talented employees. Have you ever suggested a change to your employer? How was your idea received? What was the result?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Last year when I was managing our weekend shift, I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. I created a presentation and gave it to my manager who took it to upper management. The changes were implemented, and I was very proud of the suggestion that I made."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The store where I currently work is a family run shop where they operated based on trust and didn't have a loss prevention plan. We were having some problems with theft because of it. I suggested that we install a couple of cameras inside the store to deter anyone from stealing. So far, we have seen a 56% decline in the overall loss."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
Our people make the difference here at Crate and Barrel by defining our brand and driving what our customers see and experience in the store. We're eager to recognize the hard work and dedication of our talented sales associates, so talk to the interviewer about how you appreciate being recognized for your unique contributions to the team.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a pretty self-motivated person, so I don't require a lot of recognition when I do good work -- I think it's just part of my job to do my best! When I accomplish something really big, like the completion of a huge project, it's nice to feel celebrated a little bit. Small gift cards to local restaurants are always a nice gesture because then I can go out and celebrate my accomplishment with my partner or my girlfriends."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is through words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is noticed."
Written by Jordan Henry
16. This position requires a flexible schedule as we are open evenings, weekends, and most holidays. Are you able to commit to these hours?
How to Answer
Most retail positions require a wide range of hours that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and split shifts. Assure the interviewer that you can commit to a wide range of hours. If there is anything in your schedule that may hinder your availability, be sure to address this.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to offer a flexible schedule, and to work overtime as needed. I do take an evening college course on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so I would not be available those days, after 5 PM."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that this role will include working evenings, weekends, and holidays. I am available to work anytime and am happy to work overtime as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
17. Take me through your career history. How have your previous jobs prepared you for a position at Crate and Barrel?
How to Answer
Whether you're a seasoned retail professional or just starting out in the industry, Crate and Barrel is looking for sales associates who are passionate about our products and our customers. Talk to the interviewer about how some of your previous positions have prepared you to succeed with Crate and Barrel.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've only been working in retail for about six months, but I really love it so far -- it feels like I could make a career in this industry. In my current role, I've gotten a lot of experience making strong connections with customers and building relationships with my coworkers, but I'm ready for a new challenge. I think moving into a home furnishings role would be just the challenge I'm looking for."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been working in retail for about three years, primarily for apparel retailers. While I enjoy the work, meeting goals, and connecting with customers, I feel defeated by the toll that fast fashion takes on our environment. That's the main reason I'm excited to interview here; I'm passionate about preserving our planet, and I want to work somewhere that I can feel good about."
Written by Jordan Henry
18. How would you embody our company mission in this role?
How to Answer
At Crate and Barrel, our mission is simple: to help people love how they live in the moments that matter. It's as simple -- and as powerful -- as that. Talk to the interviewer about what this mission means to you and how you would embody it in your role at Crate and Barrel.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Every home is as unique as the people who live in them, so I think it's important to approach every customer and need as a unique situation. Everyone has different objectives for their home life, whether they see their home as an oasis, a landing pad, or a welcoming space for entertaining. I want to get to know my customers so that I understand how they see their homes; that way, I can help them find exactly what they're looking for, even if they don't quite know what that is themselves!"
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a major homebody, and it's really important to me to be surrounded by comfortable, high-quality, beautiful things when I'm at home. That's one of the reasons I'm most excited about the opportunity to work at Crate and Barrel, actually; and I would do all I could to foster that sense of excitement and love of our products in our customers."
Written by Jordan Henry
19. Tell me about a time you disagreed with a supervisor.
How to Answer
At Crate and Barrel, our strong teams are the foundation of our in-store customer experience, and strong communication between supervisors and their teams is extremely important. We even encourage differences of opinion, as long as everyone is respectful and kind. Have you ever disagreed with a decision your supervisor made? How did you approach that situation?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"About a year ago, my current manager promoted a very new, seasonal sales associate to a much higher-level position at the store. All of my coworkers and I were frustrated because many of us had been working in the store for several years longer than the employee who received the promotion. I was really upset about it, so I asked my manager if we could talk. I let her know where I was coming from and why I was confused about her choice, and she listened patiently. She stood by her decision, but I left the meeting feeling like she heard and understood my point of view and had my best interests in mind."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a naturally go-with-the-flow kind of person, and I'm very flexible with new situations and people. It takes something really important to cause me to openly disagree or dispute something with anyone, especially a supervisor, but it's happened once or twice. After a couple of days to process, if I'm still upset I'll schedule a meeting with my manager to discuss it. I want her to know that I'm taking the situation seriously and that I respect her time."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. In a retail environment, staff turnover is often high. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?
How to Answer
Being flexible in your schedule is valuable as a retail-based employee. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift and you were asked to cover? Assure the interviewer that you are a team player.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am more than willing to cover a shift for a co-worker if I am able. I don't mind accepting overtime hours and do consider myself to be a team player."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If a co-worker failed to show up for their shift, I would pick it up if possible. I always strive to be a team player."
Written by Jordan Henry
21. Working in a retail environment, you will sometimes come across rude customers. How would you handle a customer who is aggressive towards you or a co-worker?
How to Answer
Retail and customer service based roles will often require diplomacy when it comes to working with the public. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle an aggressive customer.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Rude customers don't bother me. If a customer was rude to me or to a coworker, I would just give the customer space and probably let my coworkers know that the customer doesn't want to be bothered."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I really believe in being a brand ambassador when I'm at work, so I always do my best to make sure customers' needs are met regardless of their attitude. If a customer is rude or aggressive toward me, I treat them with kindness and hospitality. It's never okay to react in a negative way to a customer. Being a brand ambassador sometimes means swallowing your pride when a customer is rude to you."
Written by Jordan Henry
22. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Crate and Barrel.
How to Answer
Our products are of the highest quality, and we're looking for high-quality sales associates to help our customers take home items that they love. We're looking for passionate candidates to add to our design-minded teams who exude the passion and creativity of our brand. What three qualities make you a great fit for our in-store team?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"First of all, I'm very passionate about interior design -- when I have a friend or family member who wants to reorganize their home, I'm the first person they call because they know how much I love it. I'm also very team-focused and know that I do my best work when I'm working closely with coworkers who I get along with well. Finally, I'm a really fun, energetic person and bring a lot of positivity to my workplace."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would describe myself as Patient, Organized, and a Good Listener. I know that patience is an overlooked but really important quality to have in this industry where things can change at a moment's notice and your patience can be tested with customers and tasks. I love to organize things and take ownership of a section of a store that I can keep standardized and looking great. I also really love interacting with customers and hearing their stories; it helps me know more about their personalities so that I can better help them find what they're looking for."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. At Crate and Barrel we firmly believe in grooming our employees into management roles as they show potential. Are you interested in potential leadership roles with us?
How to Answer
We're lifelong learners here at Crate and Barrel, and we want to keep our employees engaged and excited about our ongoing opportunities for learning, growing, and evolving their careers with us. We love to promote from within when possible, so talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in taking on leadership responsibilities with us in the future.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would love to be considered for leadership opportunities with Crate and Barrel. I've been in retail part-time for about three years, but now that I'm done with school, I finally have the time to commit to pursuing my career, and I would love to start down a leadership track here."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Crate and Barrel in the future. I am prepared to express my interest through hard work and taking on leadership duties as you feel I am ready."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. In our retail stores we take pride in our merchandising and displays. Do you consider yourself to be a creative person, capable of making an attractive retail display?
How to Answer
Our in-store and window displays at Crate and Barrel are carefully designed to be aspirational and inspirational for our customers, and our display coordinators work hard to create displays that give customers inspiration for their homes. You may be asked to assist in the creation or organization of our store displays -- talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in assisting with these projects.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been shopping at Crate and Barrel for years, so I'm very familiar with the aesthetic here and would be happy to help out with creating or organizing displays."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have a strong creative flair and enjoy creating attractive displays. I think I have enough experience in retail to understand what attracts a customer and what prompts them to purchase. The displays I have seen in your stores are fascinating, and I would love to be a part of that creative flair."
Written by Jordan Henry
25. This position requires you to adhere to a dress code. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
At Crate and Barrel, it's important that our sales associates feel like themselves and can bring their own unique personalities to work, so our dress code isn't strict, but it's important that our associates can adhere to it. Are you confident that you can commit to a business-casual aesthetic?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm actually entering the retail industry for the first time after working for several years in an office-setting, so my whole wardrobe is basically business-casual! I'm very comfortable adhering to the dress code here."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think that dress codes are a great way to provide a feeling of unity in the workplace, and I'm confident that I can meet your standards."
Written by Jordan Henry
26. This role requires some data entry and basic math skills. Are you comfortable with this?
How to Answer
If hired for this position, you will be required to perform some data entry and math-related tasks. Talk to the interviewer about your comfort-level with data entry and basic math skills.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Until recently, I was a receptionist and had to perform data entry and use math every day, so I'm very comfortable accepting any tasks that require these skills."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I did very well in math during High School and am comfortable with the math skills required when it comes to accepting cash, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."
Written by Jordan Henry
27. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Crate and Barrel to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
Integrity and strong character are important qualities for our sales associates to have -- not only do we expect our employees to treat our merchandise and cash with respect, but every sales associate should do their part to make sure their coworkers are following store policies. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond if you suspected or discovered that your coworker was stealing.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Honesty is really important to me, so I would be really upset and angry if I found out that a coworker was stealing from the store. I've been in a situation before where I had to tell a manager that I suspected my coworker was stealing, and it was really difficult -- I don't want to be involved in someone losing their job. I knew it was the right thing to do to go to my manager, and I would do the same again."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My reaction to employee theft would differ if I were a retail associate or a retail manager. If I were a manager and caught an employee stealing, I would terminate them immediately. If I were an associate, I would report the incident according to company protocol. I would avoid approaching the employee as I would not want to make it a personal issue."
Written by Jordan Henry
28. At Crate and Barrel we have a very clear return policy. How would you handle a customer who was arguing with you about a potential return?
How to Answer
At Crate and Barrel, we're confident about the quality of our products and want every purchase to be a great, exciting experience for our customers. If a customer isn't satisfied with a purchase, we do our best to make things right, but sometimes disappointing a customer is unavoidable. Talk to the interviewer about how you would create a positive customer experience out of a situation where they are unable to return an item they are unhappy with.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"A lot of times, customers just want to know that there is good reasoning behind a return policy, so I try to give customers as much information as I can about why we can't accept an ineligible return. If they seem very upset or are a trusted, consistent customer, I usually check in with my manager to see if we can offer them a one-time 'peace offering,' like a small merchandise card or coupon for their next purchase. That way, we stand by our store policy but the customer still leaves the store feeling like they won."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Return policies are meant to be followed; however, there may be some exceptions allowed from time to time. I feel that having a satisfied customer is most important and sometimes refusing a return is not worth the bad word of mouth or risk of negative online review. There is a fine balance between being accommodating and being a pushover. If I were unsure of the best decision, I would ask my supervisor for clarification."
Written by Jordan Henry
29. What do you know about Crate and Barrel? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Over the course of its 50 year history, Crate and Barrel has become synonymous with high-quality products, exclusive designs, and timeless style. We do things differently at Crate and Barrel, and our customers notice. Talk to the interviewer what attracts you to working for Crate and Barrel.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've always loved shopping at Crate and Barrel because it feels like a treasure hunt -- I'm always surprised by the great architectural details and the high quality of the products. I love interior design, so I'm excited about the possibility to getting to know the Crate and Barrel customer, guide them through the store, and share my passion with them."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been working in the retail industry for about two years, and the quality of the products I sell is really important to me. When I'm selling an item to a customer, it matters to me that I can confidently say that the item is well-made, will last the customer for years to come, and has been crafted in a sustainable, ethical way. I know I'd be able to talk confidently with my customers about the quality of Crate and Barrel's products, so I'm excited about the chance to work here."
Written by Jordan Henry
30. Crate and Barrel puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Our stores are where the Crate and Barrel brand comes to life: our retail store teams make genuine in-person connections with our customers and help them find the right design solution for their home and lifestyle. We believe in the experience of physical stores and embracing the customer experience, so talk to the interviewer about your personal customer service strategy.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I know that online shopping attracts many customers, so when a customer comes into a physical store, it means they're looking for that something extra: the personal connection and genuine helpfulness that you can't get when you're shopping online. I always keep that in mind when I'm serving customers. I know they're in the store for a reason, so I do my best to make each customer feel acknowledged, appreciated, and welcome."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 14th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I ensure that my customers' needs are met by actively listening to them and also asking the right questions. Treat others as you want to be treated. It's a good rule to live by."
Written by Jordan Henry