Why is it important for ASOS to support and encourage body positivity?

"The fashion industry is often criticized for promoting negative body imagery - using impossible body-type models to display its wares and then Photoshopping further to make the overall look of a piece virtually unattainable for the average consumer. I find it refreshing that ASOS takes exactly the opposite approach, and that the company understands the importance of promoting body positivity. ASOS works with more than 200 models so that a wide variety of body types is represented in its materials - this is closely in alignment with ASOS' philosophy of helping each individual consumer find the look that's right for him or her."

The interviewer would like to see that you're familiar with criticism of the fashion industry around negative body imagery and can make the connection with how ASOS.com is the antithesis of this kind of imagery. You should be able to find supporting information on the ASOS site.

How do you feel about performance incentives?

"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."

Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings re: performance incentives.

"I think performance incentives are important for driving people to get results. For me, personally, they give me some skin in the game and get my team engaged in making an impact towards the results."

What are your salary expectations?

"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."

The best way to discuss your salary expectations are to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."

How do you manage a large workload?

"When I have a large workload on my plate, I do not stress over the tasks that are in front of me. Rather, I make a simple plan of which tasks are a high priority and which tasks are a low priority. The higher priority tasks, I complete first. Through this system, I am able to focus on my tasks individually, rather than stress out by the multitude of tasks ahead of me."

Start off your answer by clarifying you never let a large workload stress you out. Each morning you review your tasks using a task manager application (if you do not have one I suggest google searching 'task manager application' and giving one a try). Continue to discuss how you complete each task by priority level and, before you know it, your large workload is completed.

"I work best when I have a large workload because it keeps me active, keen, and attentive on the project at hand. I also use Trello to keep my team and I on task."

Sales performance is very important to ASOS.com. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?

"I plan to contribute to your profitability through hard work, strategy, tenacity and paying close attention to the needs of my customers. I have solid results in my most recent position and look forward to bringing these same successes to ASOS."

Talk to the interviewer about your sales targets, results, and contributions in the past. Be sure to highlight your biggest wins and talk about the ways you will bring the same performance to Reckitt Benckiser, if hired.

"My first step would be to examine current performance against KPIs and then develop a 30-, 60- and 90-day plan for how I can help the company achieve, and even exceed, them. I have a solid history of identifying strong lead measures that help support overall organizational strategies, and then leading a team to achieve those measures."

As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?

"As a manager, I feel that my greatest weakness is in separating employees as quickly as possible when they begin to show signs that they are not going to work out. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt and have been known to continue trying to nurture people when they really are overdue for termination. I have taken a couple of management training classes focusing on this area, and I'm also working with an industry mentor; I feel I'm improving in being able to objectively approach separating employees who aren't a good fit."

Everyone has his/her weaknesses, and that is OK. Talk to the hiring manager about what you feel you could work on the most, and what you are doing about it. Avoid discussing a weakness that could be detrimental to you securing the position.

"Some feedback that I have received in my current role is that I could improve my technical skills when it comes to Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. I have all the basics covered, but when it comes to more complicated formulas or visualization of data, I don't have much experience. To remedy this, I have enrolled in a course for next month, and my goal is to come out of that experience as a more intermediate user."

Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.

"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."

On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?

"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."

Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue? At ASOS, we view our employees holistically and understand it's important for them to be passionate about things outside of work.

"Outside of work I like to attend dance classes and I also attend the odd paint and sip wine nights at a local wine shop. I also enjoy reading as a way of nurturing my creative side. And, of course, I love experimenting with fashion trends and combinations."

Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity. If you can work in a connection to the fashion industry, that's a plus. Try always to connect back to this opportunity.

"Outside of work I love to explore my creative side. I practice photography for fun and also hang out with friends. As an avid reader, I try to read one new book per week. I also explore writing. I believe the more interests I have outside of work, the better able I am to find common interests with customers and build a rapport."

Would your former or current boss describe you as a worker who gladly goes the extra mile to complete their tasks?

"My former boss would definitely describe me as an employee who goes the extra mile. In my most recent position, I was always available on my email and many of my service clients had my cell phone number just in case of an after-hours emergency. When you call my reference he will be happy to expand on that for you, I am sure."

You can absolutely say that you will go the extra mile but it's best to give a real life example to the interviewer about a time when you did just that. Offer up your references as well and discuss with the interviewer what you feel your most recent employer would say about you.

"I go the extra mile whenever possible because that's what great employees do! I have received very positive feedback from all of my previous employers."

At ASOS, we want to be the best in the online retail fashion industry. What can we do to stay competitive?

"I am a real fashion fanatic and have visited ASOS.com many times! Your site is truly one of my favorites, and you're doing a lot of things right. The only suggestion I would make is to keep differentiating yourself in the unique way that already defines ASOS. Sometimes, as a company grows larger, it can lose its roots and blend in more with its corporate competition. Continuing to solidify your place in customers' minds through more than great fashion - like your focus on freedom and encouraging customers to be who they really are - can help you continue to stand out from the competition."

The fashion industry is a competitive one, and the interviewer would like to know that you have put some thought into where ASOS stands in comparison to its competitors. Perhaps you have a minor suggestion for improvement? Be sure to keep your answer light and end on a positive note.

"You do so many things right that it's hard to find room for improvement, but I understand the need for continuing to evolve in the marketplace. I believe that continuing to tailor your products and services to your customers' needs is the key - the top ways are through top-notch customer service, investment in research and development, and consistently providing a product that meets a specific need. Ultimately, your products need to make a difference in the lives of your consumers, your end users need to trust you when they have a question or need help regarding a product, and they need to be continually surprised with new products that continue to make their lives better."

Think about a difficult boss, professor or other person. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?

"I once worked at a locally owned shop where the owner was very demanding. When the owner would walk into the store, employees would announce over their headset system that the owner was in the building, so that everyone could be prepared for his entrance into their department. The owner had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as he might say them."

Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please. Think about that one person at work who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was to you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.

"I once worked with a peer who was very difficult in meetings and with interacting in groups of others. I took it upon myself to help this person interact better with others. When she would bark orders, I would reiterate what she was trying to say to the group in a more professional manner. It took some time, but she learned to behave in a way that made people want to work with her."

Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.

"Last year when I was managing scheduling for my company 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."

In addition to being able to handle change, can you also recognize when change is required and be confident enough to present that to your organization? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to make a suggestion for change in the workplace.

"Our company did not have a strong policy when it came to workplace harassment and bullying when I first joined. I was able to work with the leadership team to create a new program which has been readily welcomed by our staff."

When have you had to adapt to change?

"In my current role there is a lot of turnover when it comes to our management team. I have had to adapt to 3 new managers in the past 4 years. I have been able to quickly adjust for the good of the team, and I find it refreshing shake things up on a regular basis. Like many at ASOS, I seem to thrive on restlessness and innovation."

Being able to adapt to change in the workplace is a very important skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have had to adjust to changes on the job. How did you handle the change? Was it a positive reaction?

"Last year our company was sold to a competitor and a lot of our management team changed hands. It was a lot of change to handle in a short time, but I found it exciting as we reset priorities and put new processes in place. I'm excited that ASOS says there's no set way of doing things here - that you're always looking for change and ideas from creative people. I believe I can make a real difference in this kind of environment."

If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. If I were hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."

When you start a new position it is important to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate.

"If I were hired today I would place my focus where you have the greatest need. In my opinion, the biggest impact I can make is through being a dedicated employee. I want to make a difference and I want to be part of something big. I believe I can do both at ASOS."

What does it mean to you when we at ASOS call ourselves a fashion democracy?

"I love the term 'fashion democracy.' It's very freeing for the consumer; instead of focusing on the newest trends and what's popular on the runway, ASOS focuses on the individuality of the consumer. A fashion democracy means that the consumer is free to choose what works for him or her, based on individual taste and comfort rather than rigid guidelines foisted upon them by a particular design house or tastemaker."

Show the interviewer that you have a full understanding of the ASOS brand promise and personality - be able to speak to the larger company philosophy and how it merges with your own personal sense of the role of fashion in customers' lives.

"To me, a fashion democracy defines the core of ASOS. It's clear from your online presence that you do everything you can to help customers find their 'fit,' both literally and figuratively. Doing so allows each individual consumer to have choices, to experiment, to express themselves and to dress and accessorize in a way that confidently conveys who they are. It's a fascinating concept that is the antithesis of many fashion leaders, who take the approach of telling their audiences what they should be wearing instead of leading them to design a look for themselves."

Days can sometimes be hectic at ASOS. How do you handle stress on the job?

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, I believe they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate stress where I can."

Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.

"Stress is part of any fast-paced job, and I embrace it to the fullest. Sometimes the demands of a bustling e-commerce environment are actually energizing to me. I try to make sure I'm well prepared for the day's challenges and then let myself live in the moment from there, handling each complication as it comes. I also take good care of my physical health and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."

Tell me what you can about the unique ASOS online shopping experience.

"I really love the mindset at ASOS - an always testing, 'always in beta' philosophy, constantly improving to make the user experience just a little better every day. That philosophy has led to developments such as innovative visual search tech and style match. When you combine these sophisticated UX techniques with features like free delivery and returns, it makes for a smooth, customer-friendly shopping experience."

Assure the interviewer that you fully understand what makes the ASOS shopping experience unique. Take the time to do a little research into what differentiates the ASOS experience from the average online user experience.

"ASOS offers some truly innovative features when it comes to the online shopping experience. First, there are the basic customer service offerings, like free shipping and returns, and the 'try before you buy' feature. But when you add tech innovations like the Fit Assistant, designed to offer a personalized size recommendation based on similar shoppers and bespoke measurements, and Style Match that allows a user to upload a photo and see the closest ASOS product based on a custom search of inventory, you take online customer service and ease-of-use to a whole new level."

What can you tell me about the differences among the three major ASOS brands?

"I think ASOS has done a nice job of differentiating its three brands: ASOS DESIGN interprets major trends, adding that next-level ASOS spin, while ASOS EDITION specializes in distinctive occasion wear. Finally, ASOS WHITE offers elevated pieces with a modern twist."

Fashion is always changing and brands must keep up. Talk to the interviewer about the ways ASOS differentiates its key three lines from one another.

"ASOS offers three very distinctive brands. The foundation brand, ASOS DESIGN, offers all the fashion basics you need to invent a style that's all yours, and is available in a wide range of sizes. ASOS EDITION makes sure that consumers can continue to stand out and express themselves, even in more formal occasions, including weddings, and ASOS WHITE offers stapes with a more sophisticated aesthetic. The three lines are different enough to appeal to a broad range of customers while remaining true to the overall unique sensibility that is ASOS."

At ASOS.com we offer many areas of opportunity and growth. Where would you like to see your career in the next 3-5 years?

"Over the next few years I would like to grow into a management function with ASOS.com. I am willing to prove myself and do what it takes to get there. I look forward to taking part in some of the many leadership development programs ASOS offers, including career coaching, mentors from within the business, team development days, career planning and sponsored qualification support."

Everyone wants to see growth and opportunity in their career. Share with the interviewer the ways that you want to grow with ASOS.com over the next few years. Assure the hiring manager that you are willing to work hard for growth opportunities.

"Ideally, 5 years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with ASOS' goals, which helps me to see a great long term fit here. I'm excited about getting involved in 'managing and leading the ASOS way' in order to propel my leadership potential forward."

What does it mean to you when ASOS.com says it wants to be a positive force for people and the planet?

"This corporate stance is one of my favorite things about ASOS and the way it conducts its business. First, ASOS is serious about making sure every single person in its global supply chain is safe at work and has their rights respected and protected - that includes working toward ensuring that all wages are sufficient not only to meet basic needs, but also to provide some discretionary income. This is very important to me; I don't want my success to be achieved on the backs of others somewhere else in the world. When it comes to the planet, I know that ASOS sets challenging targets to reduce the impact of its products, business and logistics, and the company is always looking for new ways to drive sustainability forward."

Assure the interviewer that you are knowledgeable about ASOS.com's overall corporate philosophy and the way it does business. You can find this information on the ASOS website.

"I greatly appreciate the ASOS approach to being a benefit for both people and the planet, and both are very important to me on a personal level as well. From what I've researched, ASOS works hard to ensure animals don't suffer for fashion and has strict sourcing guidelines for leather and producing animal-free products. In addition, I respect the fact that ASOS has set itself priorities including transparency; improving wages; health and safety; addressing and reducing modern slavery risks, and identifying and stopping child labor."

Do you have any post-secondary education related to the fashion industry?

"I have a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design; this degree has helped me immensely in the understanding of fashion trends, design, and style."

Walk the interviewer through your post-secondary experience. How has your education assisted you in your fashion-related career? You can keep your answer brief and to the point.

"Although I do not yet have a completed post-secondary degree, I have a completed certificate in Social Media Marketing. This knowledge is transferable to any industry, including fashion. I look forward to utilizing my knowledge in this area at ASOS.com"

At ASOS.com we aim to be a step ahead of our competitors. In your opinion, what do you think will be the biggest fashion trend for next spring?

"The fact that ASOS.com is always a step ahead of competitors is one of the many reasons why I want to work for you. I love to keep up to date on new trends and think that this spring the trend will continue to be platform loafers, oversized trenches, and chokers. But what I love about ASOS most of all is its focus on the consumer's individual style, not necessarily following the trends."

Assure the interviewer that you keep up with the latest trends in fashion and that you have a personal opinion when it comes to forecasting trends.

"I admire that ASOS.com is always a step ahead of the trends. One account that I follow regularly, to get a beat on what is coming up, is Nasty Gal. They are always a few steps ahead and at the moment I am seeing a lot of embroidery, cut-outs, and glitter accents. But overall, what makes ASOS unique is its focus on the consumer's individuality, which overrides any focus on passing trends."

Do you have experience in managing online sales?

"Yes, absolutely - a couple of years ago I worked as a sales manager for a local furniture store. Our sales were slower than usual, so I started an Instagram account for the store where we would feature particular pieces. We garnered quite a strong following, and we did see an increase in walk-in traffic over time. I am also well versed in managing web-based sales as my current employer has a strong e-commerce presence."

Online sales and marketing are incredibly important for ASOS.com. Talk to the interviewer about your experience and understanding when it comes to social media and online marketing efforts. Has there ever been a time that your online sales efforts have made a significant impact on your employer?

"I fully respect the fact that online sales are the driver for ASOS' success. As such, those who drive online sales need to be tech-savvy, knowledgeable and incredibly responsive. Given my experience running both social media marketing and online sales initiatives in my current position, I feel confident I could step into the online sales team seamlessly and manage the process consistently with ASOS' values."

At ASOS.com we have thousands of applicants per year. Why should we choose you for this position?

"You should hire me for this position because I can guarantee you that nobody else has followed your brand as closely as I have. I am passionate about fashion and see this as much more than just a job. Working for ASOS.com would change my path and I plan to make a positive impact immediately. You're looking for creative, intelligent and passionate people for your team, and I think you'll find that I perfectly fit that description. "

What makes you a stand-out candidate for this opportunity? Why should the interviewer give you the position over another candidate? Make your answer unique and memorable. Show confidence and don't be afraid to brag about yourself!

"In addition to my recently acquired degree in Fashion Design, I also have a background in film. I am a world traveler as well. These 3 factors combined, make me an incredibly well-rounded candidate who will offer you a perspective and insight that others cannot. You say there's no set way of doing things at ASOS - that you're always looking for change and ideas from creative people, and I'd love to be part of a team like that."

What can you tell me about how ASOS nurtures young talent?

"From my research, it's clear that ASOS is passionate about the development of its people, which is very exciting for me. I'm interested in the fact that ASOS advocates for having a team of engaged, talented, high-performing people at the top of their game. I find it heartening that ASOS invests a lot in its people - it's the right thing to do, and it also makes a big difference to how successful you are."

The interviewer would like to find out what you know about its current programs to develop young employees and prepare them for larger roles and more responsibility. Do a little research by reading through the ASOS website to find out as much as you can about employee development programs.

"I'm very impressed with the way ASOS nurtures young talent. From what I've learned in preparation for this interview, ASOS offers a range of bespoke and tailored learning solutions to suit employee needs from day one. Career coaching, mentors from within the business, team development days, career planning and sponsored qualification support are all part of what ASOS offers, and I'm ready to take part in all of them in order to grow professionally and make the biggest impact possible for ASOS."

Your current employer has a strong reputation in the fashion industry. Why do you want to work for ASOS.com?

"I have worked with my current company for the past 5 years and because they are a smaller organization there is no longer room for me to grow unless I were to relocate. This is why I am seeking a new opportunity. Working for ASOS.com would allow me to grow into bigger opportunities; as the fastest growing online retailer, ASOS is constantly striving to push boundaries and drive its business forward.In addition, now that I have some experience, things like corporate philosophy and responsibility are more important to me than ever; I really love what ASOS stands for and would embrace the opportunity to help it continue to grow."

Discuss with the hiring manager the ways in which you feel that working for ASOS.com will provide you with the aspects you are currently missing in your position.

"I have had my eye on openings with ASOS.com for quite some time. I have heard excellent things about working here, which is part of why I am so excited about the opportunity to join your team. I'm attracted to the fact that ASOS is a place where fashion and technology converge, and I'm excited about the possibilities that combination can bring."

At ASOS.com, we have a wide range of products and SKUs. Are you able to learn about a wide range of products without becoming overwhelmed?

"I love this kind of challenge! In my current position we have approximately 150 different SKUs, which doesn't seem like a lot; however, we have many different color and design options within each SKU. If awarded this position, I can certainly commit to spending overtime hours studying and memorizing your product base so that I can speak to them with the authority, passion and creativity that are hallmarks of the ASOS brand."

Handling a multitude of SKU's is a tricky skill. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of learning a significant amount of information in a short amount of time. What will you do to make sure that you are a quick study?

"I am fully prepared for the learning curve ahead, should I be the successful candidate with ASOS. I'm already familiar with many of your products because I've followed your brand in recent years, and I'm passionate about the way you promote what's unique about each customer and each piece you sell. I would embrace the challenge of getting familiar with the entire range of products in order to do them justice."

ASOS.com Interview Questions

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1. Why is it important for ASOS to support and encourage body positivity?
2. How do you feel about performance incentives?
3. What are your salary expectations?
4. How do you manage a large workload?
5. Sales performance is very important to ASOS.com. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?
6. As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?
7. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
8. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue? At ASOS, we view our employees holistically and understand it's important for them to be passionate about things outside of work.
9. Would your former or current boss describe you as a worker who gladly goes the extra mile to complete their tasks?
10. At ASOS, we want to be the best in the online retail fashion industry. What can we do to stay competitive?
11. Think about a difficult boss, professor or other person. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
12. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
13. When have you had to adapt to change?
14. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?
15. What does it mean to you when we at ASOS call ourselves a fashion democracy?
16. Days can sometimes be hectic at ASOS. How do you handle stress on the job?
17. Tell me what you can about the unique ASOS online shopping experience.
18. What can you tell me about the differences among the three major ASOS brands?
19. At ASOS.com we offer many areas of opportunity and growth. Where would you like to see your career in the next 3-5 years?
20. What does it mean to you when ASOS.com says it wants to be a positive force for people and the planet?
21. Do you have any post-secondary education related to the fashion industry?
22. At ASOS.com we aim to be a step ahead of our competitors. In your opinion, what do you think will be the biggest fashion trend for next spring?
23. Do you have experience in managing online sales?
24. At ASOS.com we have thousands of applicants per year. Why should we choose you for this position?
25. What can you tell me about how ASOS nurtures young talent?
26. Your current employer has a strong reputation in the fashion industry. Why do you want to work for ASOS.com?
27. At ASOS.com, we have a wide range of products and SKUs. Are you able to learn about a wide range of products without becoming overwhelmed?

ASOS.com Interview Questions

1. Why is it important for ASOS to support and encourage body positivity?

2. How do you feel about performance incentives?

3. What are your salary expectations?

4. How do you manage a large workload?

5. Sales performance is very important to ASOS.com. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?

6. As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?

7. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.

8. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue? At ASOS, we view our employees holistically and understand it's important for them to be passionate about things outside of work.

9. Would your former or current boss describe you as a worker who gladly goes the extra mile to complete their tasks?

10. At ASOS, we want to be the best in the online retail fashion industry. What can we do to stay competitive?

11. Think about a difficult boss, professor or other person. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?

12. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.

13. When have you had to adapt to change?

14. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

15. What does it mean to you when we at ASOS call ourselves a fashion democracy?

16. Days can sometimes be hectic at ASOS. How do you handle stress on the job?

17. Tell me what you can about the unique ASOS online shopping experience.

18. What can you tell me about the differences among the three major ASOS brands?

19. At ASOS.com we offer many areas of opportunity and growth. Where would you like to see your career in the next 3-5 years?

20. What does it mean to you when ASOS.com says it wants to be a positive force for people and the planet?

21. Do you have any post-secondary education related to the fashion industry?

22. At ASOS.com we aim to be a step ahead of our competitors. In your opinion, what do you think will be the biggest fashion trend for next spring?

23. Do you have experience in managing online sales?

24. At ASOS.com we have thousands of applicants per year. Why should we choose you for this position?

25. What can you tell me about how ASOS nurtures young talent?

26. Your current employer has a strong reputation in the fashion industry. Why do you want to work for ASOS.com?

27. At ASOS.com, we have a wide range of products and SKUs. Are you able to learn about a wide range of products without becoming overwhelmed?