30 Williams-Sonoma Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Williams-Sonoma 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. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
At Williams-Sonoma, we love our employees and always put them first -- it's right there at the top of our list of company values. We are committed to recognizing high performance in our employees. Let the interviewer know how you like to be recognized for your performance.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st 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 on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As a sales professional, I am driven by a challenge with a financial perk. Sales contests, for example, are a great way to motivate me."
Written by Jordan Henry
2. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
At Williams-Sonoma, we want to make sure that all of our employees are empowered to be high achievers and who pursue quality and excellence in all that they do. One of the ways that an employee can prove their leadership and excellence is by planning ahead for the unexpected. Talk to the interviewer about how you react when unexpected situations arise that threaten to make you late for work.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a mom to three sports-lovers, so I'm no stranger to running into complications when shuttling my girls to their separate practices, games, and meets. My go-to strategy to prevent being late to any event, including work, is to have a plan B, C, and D -- that way, if something unexpected happens, I don't have to worry about how I'm going to stick to the tight schedule."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I hope never to be late! When I started working at a restaurant at sixteen years old, we were taught the adage of 'if you're on time, you're late,' so I've worked to implement that into my life. I always try to arrive 15 minutes early, but there are unforeseen circumstances that can arise. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others top of mind."
Written by Jordan Henry
3. Do you have reliable transportation?
How to Answer
Even if you're not expected to drive for the job, you will need to have some form of reliable transportation. If you take the bus or ride a bike, that works too! Merely share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year, and that was due to a snowstorm which stalled all of our employee's commute - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."
Written by Jordan Henry
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Williams-Sonoma?
How to Answer
At Williams-Sonoma, we're interested in hiring lifelong learners who enjoy the process of acquiring product knowledge, communication skills, and leadership tools. There are many opportunities to learn when you work here, including taking part in our in-store tutorials and trainings. Talk to the interviewer about what you're hoping to learn from your job here.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career with this position. I'm currently in culinary school and am hopeful that this part-time job at Williams-Sonoma can turn into something that really boosts my career in the future. If nothing else, I'm excited to gain so much knowledge about the newest kitchen electronics and techniques!"
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I hope to gain stronger skills in communication and customer service. I understand that retail can be challenging because of the multiple personalities you are faced with on a daily basis. I believe this will help my confidence to grow, and my sales skills as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $22/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 Williams-Sonoma motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
The management team at Williams-Sonoma is committed to fostering an environment that attracts and rewards high performance, so we're constantly looking for ways to motivate our employees to do their best work. Talk to the interviewer about ways that you stay motivated on the job and the kind of leadership that brings out the best in you.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel most motivated when I'm working with like-minded individuals who are all working for a common goal. It's important to me that I get along with my coworkers and have plenty in common with them. When I feel like I'm really a member of a team instead of a cog in a machine, that's when I feel most motivated to do my best work."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 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
There's a lot to love about a job at Williams-Sonoma: from our competitive pay and benefits to our commitment to quality and sustainability. Talk to the interviewer about what you look for in an employer. What kind of company gets your attention?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I need to know that I'm working for a company that values human life and the planet -- and that puts their values into action. I love that Williams-Sonoma is so dedicated to female and LGBTQ leadership in their organization. My ideal employer is one that prioritizes equality and respect, and that's exactly why I'm interested in a job at Williams-Sonoma."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"When I start looking for new work, I search for companies that have a reputation for and commitment to sustainability. I do all I can in my personal life to limit my environmental footprint, so it's important to me that I work for a company that does all it can to contribute to a healthier planet. I love that Williams-Sonoma takes their responsibility for the earth so seriously; I would love to work for a company that does so much for the environment."
Written by Jordan Henry
8. We need reliable people on our team at Williams-Sonoma. 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 August 15th, 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 August 15th, 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. Why do you think our customers enjoy shopping in our stores?
How to Answer
Williams-Sonoma works hard to make our stores inviting, hospitable, and unique -- just like our customers' homes. Our customers turn to us for expertise and advice. In your opinion, what makes for a great shopping experience? What makes Williams-Sonoma stand out as a great store to shop in?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've always had great experiences shopping at Williams-Sonoma because I know that I could turn to any single employee in the store with a question, and they would have an answer for me. The associates here really know their stuff -- they truly become experts in their field. That's what customers really want from a shopping experience, and it's what keeps customers coming into physical stores instead of doing their shopping online."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"What attracts me most to Williams-Sonoma storefronts is that the atmosphere is so beautiful and relaxing. It's easy to see that the team works hard to make products and helpful information very accessible to customers without sacrificing aesthetic and beauty. Sure, a customer could go to another store and buy cheaply-made products for less money; but Williams-Sonoma's commitment to quality and responsible sourcing is what keeps customers coming back."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. Personality fit is important to us at Williams-Sonoma. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
We're looking for employees who have a passion for the kitchen and home as well as a passion for selling, can be successful in a team environment, and are constantly looking for ways to think outside the box. Describe your personality to the interviewer and identify what you would add to the team here.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a major people-person: I love talking to customers and learning about their style, lifestyle, and story so that I can connect them to the right products. Genuine connection is really important to me, which is why I enjoy retail so much. I think my high-energy, friendly personality would be a great addition to your team."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as passionate and result-oriented. I'm definitely an over-achiever when I'm given a task that I can connect to something I love, whether that's entertaining or service."
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 August 15th, 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 August 15th, 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
At Williams-Sonoma, we invest time and resources into our leadership team because we know that they are the foundation for our associates to learn and grow. We believe that the potential of our company -- and our employees -- is limitless as long as we are investing in the teams that make our company stand out from our competitors. Talk to the interviewer about positive relationships you've had with managers in the past. What made these relationships so successful?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I had a great manager at my very first retail job several years ago, and I've been trying to recreate that relationship ever since! She stands out as a great manager because she was extremely organized and efficient, which meant that the entire team always knew exactly what was expected of them every day. She was a great communicator and was very straightforward with her expectations of each employee, and she had a real sixth sense about who would be best in each role. She was also extremely open, kind, and encouraging -- I really felt like she was invested in me not only as a worker but as a person."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent manager was amazing because she really encouraged teamwork. When our store had a new challenge to solve, she would ask for each associate's perspective and advice. We would have little 'think tank' sessions before the store opened in the mornings so we could discuss the previous day's successes and challenges, as well as choosing one thing we could do better today. Her enthusiasm for the work was infectious -- I wanted to do my best because I always knew she was doing her best, and I was excited to help the store meet our goals under her leadership."
Written by Jordan Henry
13. Why is this job with Williams-Sonoma right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
From design and creative positions to inventory management to distribution, Williams-Sonoma has a huge variety of opportunities to grow with the company, or simply to help you move into the next phase of your career elsewhere. Talk to the interviewer about your future career plans and how a job at Williams-Sonoma will help you achieve your goals.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm an extremely creative person, and I love cooking and entertaining -- so Williams-Sonoma is a perfect fit for me at this point in my career. I'm currently working towards earning my MFA in ceramics design, and I'm hopeful that this position at Williams-Sonoma will set me up for success in my career once I begin working in the ceramics industry. I hope that the connections I make here will help me move forward -- I would especially love to work toward a position in the Williams-Sonoma design team! That would be a dream come true."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 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. What attracts you to working for a kitchen and home design retailer like Williams-Sonoma?
How to Answer
We're looking for employees who are passionate about the kitchen to be brand ambassadors at Williams-Sonoma. We believe that 'home is at the heart of everything: a place where curiosity lives and generosity is served, where lives are nourished and every day inspires.' Talk to the interviewer about what makes you want to work for a company that specializes in nourishing people's lives at home and in the kitchen.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've always enjoyed entertaining, especially throwing dinner parties. I worked for a while as a freelance consultant for party planning, in fact! I'm excited to work for Williams-Sonoma because I really believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home, where people naturally gather and enjoy each other's company. I'm ready to bring my passion for the kitchen and the home to my work here."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love what Williams-Sonoma has to say about their inspiration for the kitchen: 'a fresh perspective, a recipe for innovation, and a commitment to connection.' To me, that's what being in the kitchen is all about! I love creating new recipes for my friends; there's really no more natural place to connect with people than the kitchen. I want to work for Williams-Sonoma because their reputation is incredible and I would love to work for a company that is as passionate about the kitchen as I am."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. Have you used any of our in-store or in-home services? How would you pitch them to a customer?
How to Answer
Williams-Sonoma stands apart from other retailers in our market by offering a wide variety of classes, tutorials, and services inside our store and straight in our customers' homes. From free knife-sharpening to in-store electronics tutorials to in-home design services, Williams-Sonoma goes above and beyond to nourish our customers' lives. Talk to the interviewer about any experience you have taking advantage of our services and how you would pitch these services to our customers.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I recently made an appointment to watch a tutorial for setting a table because I was getting ready for a large dinner party. The information was super useful, but more than that the design crewmember leading the tutorial was fun, engaging, and really knew her stuff! If a customer was curious about this service, I would absolutely recommend it -- even if you already have a handle on setting a gorgeous table, the event itself was so fun that I want to do it again sometime!"
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would definitely encourage any customer to take advantage of one of these services -- it's really a no-brainer. I would bring up the topic organically when it made sense to during a conversation with a customer. If someone came into the store looking at some of our electronic kitchen gadgets, for instance, I would let the customer know that they can sign up for a free product training."
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 August 15th, 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 August 15th, 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. At Williams-Sonoma we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
Our People First value means that we believe the potential of our company has no limit and is driven by our associates and their imaginations. At Williams-Sonoma, we are committed to an environment that attracts, motivates, and recognizes high performance. Talk to the interviewer about your performance at work in the past and how you would be a strong achiever at Williams-Sonoma.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When I'm working for a company whose values I feel aligned with, I always do my best work. I loved the last company that I worked for because I believed so deeply in their mission and values, so I was constantly volunteering for extra hours and offered to cover coworkers' shifts. I also volunteered for non-paid opportunities to contribute, like coming in early to help our display coordinator finish up a project or setting up for special events. I loved my team, so it never felt like 'work' to be a strong achiever; it just came naturally to me. That's the kind of environment I'm hoping for here at Williams-Sonoma as well."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer make a purchase, and I noticed that she was struggling with her bags. She had a stroller, a couple of kids, and a lot of bags to carry. I offered to help her out to her car, and she gratefully accepted. It felt excellent to go above the call of duty that day."
Written by Jordan Henry
18. The most successful applicants will have 1-3 years of sales experience. Walk the interviewer through your experience in retail.
How to Answer
Williams-Sonoma is looking for seasoned salespeople with 'unmatched ability to sell and a proven ability to exceed selling goals.' Any experience you have in a sales or customer service role will be useful for the interviewer to get a feel for your background in sales.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in retail for the past eight years. My most challenging position was with Company ABC. I found it so challenging because it was a different industry than I was accustomed. I learned a great deal during that time. This position was also my favorite because it was such a great challenge. I like to be pushed beyond my boundaries. It keeps me motivated to be better."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most challenging position, and also my most favorite position, would be my current role. I would not normally choose to leave; however, I need to find a position related to my newly acquired degree. In my current position, the hours are great, my co-workers are nice, and I receive fair compensation."
Written by Jordan Henry
19. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Williams-Sonoma?
How to Answer
Our company values -- People First, Customers First, Quality, Integrity, and Corporate Responsibility -- define everything we do at Williams-Sonoma. Which of these values stands out to you the most? How would you make these values your own?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"As a potential employee, it's really nice to know that Williams-Sonoma puts its employees first. I love that they're committed to creating an environment that attracts and motivates their employees. I would adopt this value as my own by treating my employees and managers with the same kind of value and respect that the company treats all of us. I want to be as much a servant to my team as I am to my customers."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Quality is really important to me when I'm looking for a place to work. I want to work for a company that takes pride in their products, knowing that the materials are sourced responsibly and created with care and passion. I would adopt this value of quality here at Williams-Sonoma by gaining as much product knowledge as I can and sharing that information with interested customers."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Williams-Sonoma. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
Integrity is an integral value at Williams-Sonoma. How have your managers described you in the past? Do you consider yourself to be a person of honesty and integrity? Talk to the interviewer about a time that you displayed integrity at work.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My most recent employer and all others would say that I have strong character and always choose honesty first. I have solid references who will attest to that as well. In my last job, my reputation was rock-solid and I was promoted to a management position after a few months, which meant I was responsible for the cash and merchandise at the end of the night when I was alone in the store. The management team recognized my honesty and integrity and felt comfortable leaving me in charge of the money."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Honesty is one of my own personal values, and I always bring that value with me to work. During my exit interview at my last job, my manager, Nyisha, told me that she really appreciated my dedication to being honest, even when it's hard. She said that she would happily hire me back if I ever wanted to return to the company because she trusts my moral fiber and integrity."
Written by Jordan Henry
21. 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 August 15th, 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 August 15th, 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
22. Working in a retail environment, you will sometimes come across rude customers. How would you handle a customer who is rude to you or a co-worker?
How to Answer
Williams-Sonoma sales associates must have a people-first mentality; customers are our company's foundation, so we expect our employees to do all they can to make sure our customers have the best possible experience in our store. From time to time, you may encounter a rude customer -- talk to the interviewer about how you would handle that kind of interaction.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Everyone has bad days from time to time, so I try not to take it personally when a customer is rude to me. I think the best policy is to continue to smile and be friendly but to give the customer space. If it looks like that customer needs help with something after our initial rude interaction, I would be sure to approach the customer with as much courtesy and respect as any other. I want my customers to know that my purpose is to serve them."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Rude customers don't bother me. If a customer was rude to me or to a coworker, I would just give them space and probably let other associates know that the customer doesn't seem to want to be bothered. If the interaction moves from rude to aggressive or hostile, I would be sure to let my manager know that we may want to watch the customer -- while I like to believe the best about people, I also think it's a priority to make sure every employee is safe."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Williams-Sonoma.
How to Answer
Creating a healthy, happy work environment is a priority at Williams-Sonoma. Inspiring colleagues, the very best products, and employee-centric events create a culture that's fun, authentic, and entirely-unique to us. Describe three of your own qualities that make you stand out from other applicants.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"First and foremost, I'm passionate about cooking and entertaining -- I think that the kitchen is really the heart of the home, so I love talking to people about that. I'm results-oriented; I love to set myself goals and then challenge myself to exceed them. I would also describe myself as very intuitive. I tend to have a sixth sense about what a customer is looking for, and my hunches are usually right!"
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If I had to choose three qualities about myself, I would say Collaborative, Efficient, and Positive. I do my best work when I'm a member of a team, so I really appreciate that Williams-Sonoma values collaboration between its employees. I have a strategic mind that enjoys the process of identifying the most efficient way to accomplish a task. And I'm a very glass-half-full type of person; I can always see the silver lining, and I think in most situations, a positive attitude can work wonders."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. At Williams-Sonoma 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
Williams-Sonoma is a fast-moving and dynamic company that welcomes and encourages employees to grow in their careers. There are opportunities within our stores as well as in our corporate offices that will help you develop your skills, your team, and your business. Talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in working toward a leadership or management position with the company.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking to begin a long career with Williams-Sonoma and would love the opportunity to earn a place in the management and leadership structure in the future, especially since they are so focused on encouraging innovation, creativity, and hard work."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have been in an unofficial leadership role for the past three years of my career. I believe that a management role with Williams-Sonoma would be a great next step in my career."
Written by Jordan Henry
25. 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
At Williams-Sonoma, we highlight the quality and beauty of our products in clean, simply-designed displays. We want our customers to feel inspired to make their kitchens not only functional but truly beautiful by giving them ideas for how to display our products in their homes. Do you have any interest in assisting in the design or construction of displays at Williams-Sonoma?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st 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 on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that with some training, I could very easily create some attractive displays. I have a natural flair for the creative and look forward to exercising that."
Written by Jordan Henry
26. What has been your most rewarding experience in customer service?
How to Answer
At Williams-Sonoma, our vision is to enhance the quality of our customers' lives at home and in the kitchen. We put the customer at the center of everything we do, every day. Talk to the interviewer about the best experiences you have had in the retail industry or in another customer service-based role. How will you take that experience with you into a role at Williams-Sonoma?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My favorite customer story is from a couple of years ago. I was working at a kitchenware retailer, and a young man came in with an idea for how he wanted to propose to his girlfriend. He wanted to plan her an elaborate meal and set a gorgeous, romantic table for her in their home. I went through the store with him and helped him find pieces that he knew his girlfriend would love, and I pointed him to some of my favorite recipes that were easy but impressive. A few weeks later, he came back to the store with his fiancee to put together their wedding registry!"
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been working in retail for several years now, so I have a lot of great stories about making genuine connections with customers. One that really stands out to me is from a few years ago when I was working at a local apparel retailer. A customer who was visiting from out of town came into the store looking distracted and a little weepy. When I asked her if she could describe what she was looking for, she said that she was visiting her parents and that her father had just died unexpectedly; she needed a dress for the funeral because she hadn't packed one. Immediately, my coworkers and I began to help however we could. One of us bought her a hot tea from the coffee shop next door while another grabbed a few black dresses that seemed appropriate so that the customer could sit on the couch in the fitting room and relax for a few minutes. My manager stayed with her, upon her request, and talked to her until she was ready to leave. It was a hard day, but the way the team rallied around this stranger and did all we could to take care of her... it's something I'll never forget."
Written by Jordan Henry
27. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Williams-Sonoma to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
Integrity is incredibly important at Williams-Sonoma: that's why we made it one of our foundational values. It affects the way we approach every interaction with customers and suppliers, and we expect our employees to adopt our value of integrity while they're at work. Talk to the interviewer about how you would handle a situation where you discovered that a coworker was not acting with integrity in relation to the cash or merchandise at the store.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I was once in this exact situation, actually -- I found out through a third party that a coworker, who was a friend of mine outside of work, had been bragging about stealing small items from the store for several months. I was so upset and confused. I approached my coworker about it, and he acted so nonchalant about being caught. I immediately went to my manager during my next shift and explained to her what I had heard and observed. It was hard to know that I played a part in my coworker being terminated, but I knew I did the right thing."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I value honesty so if I saw a co-worker stealing; I would tell my manager immediately. Do you have a process in place for reporting these types of situations?"
Written by Jordan Henry
28. Our return policy at Williams-Sonoma is generous, but there are exceptions. How would you handle a customer who wanted to argue with you about the return policy?
How to Answer
Customers can return items within 30 days for a full refund or within 90 days for store credit, but some items -- such as monogrammed or personalized items, mattresses, perishables, and final-sale items -- are not eligible to be returned. Talk to the interviewer about how you would explain the return policy to an upset customer.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"If a customer came into the store trying to return an ineligible item -- like a food item, for instance -- I would calmly explain to them that the item can't be returned for safety reasons. We can't ensure the highest quality and food safety if we sell perishables that have been returned to the store. If the customer was becoming upset, I would work with them to find a solution to their complaint that was backed up by Williams-Sonoma policy -- perhaps by offering a coupon or a small merchandise card. Of course, I would clear any action I took with my manager beforehand."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 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 Williams-Sonoma? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Our company promise is 'To nourish people's lives.' That's a broad promise that encapsulates everything we do here at Williams-Sonoma. From the high-quality foods we carry to our commitment to sustainability to our unique services and classes, Williams-Sonoma seeks to nourish our customers and our employees. Talk to the interviewer about what attracted you to Williams-Sonoma as a potential employer.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I first became acquainted with Williams-Sonoma when I created my wedding registry with them, and it was such a seamless, stress-free process. The website was so engaging, so I ended up spending a lot of time looking through their core values and learning all about their commitment to the environment and sustainability in every area of the company. That's what really made me interested in working for Williams-Sonoma -- I'm not looking for just another job; I really want to build a career with a company I can trust and whose values I can stand behind."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've always loved Williams-Sonoma because their reputation for carrying the highest-quality kitchen tools, cookware, and electrics for the kitchen is unparalleled. What I didn't know much about was the No Kid Hungry program. I love that the company is taking their own passion for food and extending that to better the lives of struggling children in their communities. A company that values human lives in such a practical way is a company I would love to work for."
Written by Jordan Henry
30. Williams-Sonoma puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
One of Williams-Sonoma's foundational values is 'People First': without our customers, nothing else matters. Talk to the interviewer about what this value means to you and how you would incorporate Williams-Sonoma's People First value into your own model for customer service.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love the simplicity of the Williams-Sonoma model because it's so true: customers are the whole reason we're here, so it makes sense that we would put their satisfaction above everything else. Without a reputation for excellent customer service, there's not much left to support a retail organization. I would put this value into action in a sales role here by making genuine connections with customers and anticipating their needs so that I can help them find what they're looking for even before they know what that is."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 15th, 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