26 Aveda Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Aveda 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. What are your career aspirations beyond this job at Aveda?
How to Answer
Everyone has some dream or aspirations on where their career could go. Openly share with the interviewer where you'd like to see your job with Aveda take you. Be sure to include how you feel Aveda would fit in with those specific aspirations.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have some pretty lofty career goals, and after researching Aveda and learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits with my future aspirations. I would love to see myself promoted based on my hard work and results, eventually managing a store of my own, then becoming a regional manager."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This particular position is a goal that I have set my sights on for quite some time. I believe it is the next step in a long and fulfilling career in the beauty industry. The industry leadership that Aveda offers, as well as its continued education opportunities, are immense for me, and I feel confident I will gain skills in this role that will make me a successful retailer."
Written by Michelle Clark
2. If you were the successful candidate, how much notice would you require to give your current employer before beginning with Aveda?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you plan to give notice to your current employer, or if you can start at Aveda right away. It is always a good decision to show the potential employer that you would provide the professional courtesy of notice to your current place of employment.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would like to give my current employer the professional courtesy of 2 weeks' notice. I can begin this new role with Aveda immediately after that."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you have a vacation booked, this is the perfect time to discuss that as well. "I am on vacation until December 27 and can start with Aveda immediately after that."
Written by Michelle Clark
3. Teamwork is important to us at Aveda. Why do you consider yourself a team player?
How to Answer
Working well on a team requires you to have solid interpersonal skills and self-awareness. Share a few of your best qualities that make you a team player.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I occasionally need to spend additional time mentoring and coaching new employees to ensure they fit in with the team. This responsibility creates a tighter timeline for other important deadlines; however, I see that the end goal is to create a well-oiled machine and that cannot happen without everyone being equally trained. I would bring this same commitment to team development to this position at Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have always considered myself a team player; I enjoy the interactions and positive energy a team environment creates. My favorite team environment was at my last beauty salon. The energy was incredible, and I believe the customers took notice. I hope to create the same environment here at Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark
4. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for answers to a few points when asking this question.
1. Aveda wants to know what kind of timeline is present before you are scooped up by another organization.
2. They want to know how discerning you are with your job applications.
3. They want to know the types of roles that interest you.
4. They want to hear that they are your top choice.
You can certainly discuss your search but avoid giving too many details. Give the interviewer enough to satisfy the question without revealing your entire search. Some mystery is okay here.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I recently started my search and had found some interesting job postings related to my makeup artistry education; however, this role with Aveda is the position I am most enthusiastic about."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position. I believe this role with Aveda is the best fit for me."
Written by Michelle Clark
5. How do you feel about Aveda's performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that performance incentives are an effective strategy. They keep an employee driven to do a stellar job and ensure that they are on top of their KPIs. In my experience, the majority of people are enthusiastic about being rewarded for their successes, and I personally find performance incentives highly motivating."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think performance incentives are important for encouraging team members to focus on results. For me, as a manager, I feel incentives give me some skin in the game and get my team engaged in making an impact toward the company's desired results."
Written by Michelle Clark
6. We pride ourselves at Aveda on being competitive in the employee marketplace. Tell me a little about your salary and benefits 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 Michelle Clark on July 30th, 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 gain a slight increase. According to my research, this seems consistent with the market."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to earn slightly above where I am now. Currently, I make $25/hour plus benefits and a 10% commission on all sales. My target income for the coming year is $65,000. If that is out-of-range for this position, I would hope we could discuss alternative benefits and/or a path to reach that salary goal."
Written by Michelle Clark
7. At Aveda, we want to make sure we are the right fit for our employees. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that is mission-based and acts with integrity and a higher purpose. That's why Aveda is such a good fit for me; with its commitment to responsibility, sustainability and giving back, I know I can find a connection with my own values and purpose."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In the day-to-day, my ideal employer/supervisor is one who allows me to take the reins when it comes to problem-solving. I like to be hands-on and prefer to work for people who value this in me. My ideal supervisor might let me struggle a bit with a problem before just jumping in and showing me the answer."
Written by Michelle Clark
8. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on honesty in the workplace.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self-esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on the person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"For the most part, I do believe that honesty is the best policy. Often, it is just a matter of how you communicate and deliver your message."
Written by Michelle Clark
9. Judging by your resume, you appear to be overqualified for this position. What would keep you at Aveda, if you were offered the position?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about why this position with Aveda would be satisfying for you, long-term.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I do have more years' experience than what you have outlined in your job posting; however, there are aspects of this position that would be new and exciting for me as well. For example, I would enjoy the exposure to more public service and premiere accounts. Despite my level of experience, there would be much for me to learn here at Aveda; my hope is that this position would be the beginning of a long and fulfilling career."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I agree that my most recent job title makes me appear overqualified for this position with Aveda; however, there are many aspects of this position that will represent a strong learning curve for me. In addition, I'm hungry to learn from the very best in the industry, and I'm ready for the challenge that this position would offer me."
Written by Michelle Clark
10. How would your current or former supervisor describe your work ethic?
How to Answer
This is a chance to offer some real-world examples of when you've gone the extra mile or solved a tricky problem in a previous position.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current/former boss would describe me as an employee who puts in the time and effort to make sure my work is something the company can be proud of. I pay attention to detail and never leave a task unfinished. I believe I would be described as dependable and committed and would be a tremendous asset to the Aveda team."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am the type of person who can identify a problem or workplace challenge and put a plan in place to solve it. [Provide your specific example(s) here.] I believe this is why I was promoted so quickly in my previous role, and why I would do well at Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark
11. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity. If you can work in a connection to the beauty industry, that's a plus. Try to always connect back to this opportunity.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I put creativity into everything that I do. I am really into fashion and design, so I spend a lot of my spare time helping friends to shop for clothes, pick out makeup, and decorate their homes."
Written by Michelle Clark
12. Aveda is a global brand with employees from all over the world. What is your experience working with a diverse group of people?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you are enthusiastic about and can handle an environment that offers diversity.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The global nature of the Aveda business is one that I'm most excited about. I'm accustomed to being around people who aren't exactly like me, and I've been able to learn from exposure to a lot of different perspectives. However, I believe that truly being part of the global economy will be a life-changing experience that I will relish."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my current company, we have a very diverse group of people that range in age, race, experience, gender, and more. I embrace it fully, and the commitment to all types of beauty, no matter what it looks like or where it's from, is one of my favorite aspects of the Aveda brand."
Written by Michelle Clark
13. How would you handle a situation where your Aveda supervisor did not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
Others don't always communicate with you in the style that you would 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 or that is clear to you.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Whenever I have had a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I first try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. I also try to ask a lot of questions and document instructions in writing as much as possible in order to make sure I'm understanding."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I try to be independent and find as many answers as possible on my own. As much as I would love to always work with supervisors who are great communicators, that is not always a realistic ask. I also try to repeat instructions just to verify that I'm hearing and interpreting what the supervisor really wants."
Written by Michelle Clark
14. At Aveda we put a lot of effort into our brand story. In your opinion, how do we stand out from our competitors?
How to Answer
This question digs deeper than what you know about Aveda products and services. What do you know about the essence of the company? Scour its website for how the company defines the essence of its mission and brand story.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I find it inspiring that your brand story centers on holistic beauty, balance and harmony in all aspects of life. It's smart and competitive to make this differentiation within your industry, and it's empowering for your customers. They get to feel like they're part of something bigger than themselves just by making a purchase."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Aveda's consistent commitment to clean water, responsible manufacturing and sustainable packaging allows all of its stakeholders - from employees to final consumers - to feel as though they're actively participating in protecting the health of our planet. It's bigger than buying or selling shampoo."
Written by Michelle Clark
3rd Answer Example
"Aveda is a company of mission-based 'firsts.' The company was the first to sign the CERES Principles (Coalition for Environmentally Responsible Economies) and the first beauty company to use 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic in its products. As someone who wants to make a difference, I feel drawn to that kind of vision. It's using business as a force for good."
Written by Michelle Clark
15. At Aveda, we pride ourselves on being nimble and able to adapt to changes within a complex business environment. Tell me about a time when you have had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes.
How to Answer
The interviewer has given you a clue - Aveda wants its employees to be nimble. Assure the interviewer that you can respond professionally when it comes to sudden changes. Be as specific as you can, but below are some examples to guide your thinking:
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, our sales goals can change frequently based on marketplace behavior or trends, and sometimes this happens at the last minute. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes, and to respond with creativity."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This really speaks to the heart of what it means to be successful in the consumer marketplace. I believe in making sound plans, but also being prepared to abandon those plans based on last-minute changes in circumstances. For example, I may plan to spend an afternoon checking inventory, but if one of my top customers comes into the store with an urgent need, I'll let my plans go in order to help her."
Written by Michelle Clark
16. At Aveda, we pride ourselves on being resourceful. When have you been able to resolve a problem in your workplace?
How to Answer
Problem-solving and dispute resolution are fundamental skills to possess. Show Aveda that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position we had a consistent problem with employees showing up late for their shifts or calling in sick at the last minute. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style, I decided to track the results of an accountability reward system. For 180 days, my employees received a reward for coming to work 10 minutes early. Also, for every month with zero sick days, a bonus was added. In the end, we awarded those with perfect attendance a $600 bonus. The bonuses cost us less money than the cost of lowered productivity due to absent employees. The program was a success, and upper management chose to keep it implemented for another six months. We will re-assess in December, but it seems to be working very well. If I were to be hired, I'd bring that same sense of problem-solving and positive reinforcement to the Aveda team."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Currently as assistant manager, I resolve problems on a daily basis. The most recent resolution process I was a part of included a customer complaint about an allergic reaction to one of our products. I was able to resolve her concern by listening to her, apologizing, issuing a refund, and offering a replacement product. I am no stranger to dispute resolution, problem-solving, and creative customer service, and I believe my approach would be in-line with Aveda's values."
Written by Michelle Clark
17. Tell me about your most recent visit to a Aveda store. What was your experience like?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have shopped at Aveda in the past and a brief overview of your customer service experience with them. Keep your reply positive and upbeat!
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I can tell that your customer service employees receive a great deal of training. I've always had a positive customer experience at Aveda. My last visit, I was having trouble finding a specific product. As soon as I came across a customer service employee, they knew what I was looking for and found it for me right away. I was impressed with how knowledgeable and friendly she was, and I would hope to emulate that, should I be hired."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"During my last visit to Aveda I made a huge purchase. Once I arrived home, I realized that I had grabbed the wrong shade of a product. It was no problem for me to make the exchange later that week. Your staff was warm and accommodating, and that made me want to continue shopping at Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark
18. We put great effort into being the best in our industry. In your opinion, what can Aveda do to remain competitive?
How to Answer
Be sure to keep your reply upbeat, non-critical, and finish with a positive remark. The interviewer is looking for some light insight from you.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The beauty industry is quite competitive; I'd say your number one task for staying on top of your field is continuous improvement and competitive landscape scanning. Always looking for ways to improve Aveda's products and processes, while at the same time staying up-to-speed on what competitors are doing so that you make sure to stay one step ahead."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate the fact that this is an important question - while Aveda enjoys tremendous success and recognition in the beauty industry, it's important to keep striving for improvement and to better meet customer needs. One of the most important things Aveda can do along these lines is to keep engaging its customers - survey them, talk to them, engage them in brand ambassadorship so that those who are close to and love your brand can have a direct line to let you know what they need next."
Written by Michelle Clark
19. At Aveda we have an important dress code for all employees. How does this fit with your personal style?
How to Answer
Many organizations implement dress codes because they create a sense of unity for the customers. It also helps customers to find you when they need some help in-store. It is okay to ask about the dress code before you agree to it.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I'm familiar with the Aveda dress code from my experience in stores and salons. I understand the importance of clearly identifying employees and also creating a sense of consistency and unity among the team. I'm happy to comply with this requirement - my time at work is about Aveda, not about my personal style."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I can understand why dress codes are important for Aveda. Can you tell me more about the dress code? I am happy to comply with any reasonable requirement when it comes to a dress code or uniform. In fact, in my current position, I wear a uniform, so I am accustomed to this requirement."
Written by Michelle Clark
20. The hours at Aveda can include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Would you be able to accommodate this kind of schedule?
How to Answer
If there are restrictions on your schedule, this is a great time to discuss those with the interviewer. Be open and honest in regards to your availability.
If you have no scheduling restrictions: "I do not have any restrictions in my schedule. I am happy to accept any hours and would appreciate any overtime as well."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I do not have any restrictions in my schedule. I am happy to accept any hours and would appreciate any overtime as well."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you have scheduling restrictions: "I have school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-4. I can work any other time though, and would be happy to work out a mutually beneficial schedule with my supervisor!"
Written by Michelle Clark
21. At Aveda we always want our customers to feel valued and welcome. If a customer broke a product in-store before purchasing it, what would you do?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you can handle awkward or uncomfortable customer service situations. Assure the interviewer that you can handle them like a pro!
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"If this happened, my first concern would be reinforcing Aveda's customer service reputation and protecting the relationship with this customer. I would make sure the customer wasn't hurt, and I would comfort and assure the customer that no harm was done. If I can make him/her laugh and break the tension, that would be a win. I would then help him/her find the right product, and try to turn the situation into a sale and a happy Aveda customer who walks away feeling good about the brand."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would make sure to be familiar with Aveda's policies for situations such as a customer breaking a product. Accidents are not uncommon in a retail environment, so I would ensure they are not injured and then safely clean up the mess. The important thing here is to make sure the customer leaves the store feeling good about the customer service he/she received."
Written by Michelle Clark
22. At Aveda we prefer to hire those with formal training in beauty, makeup, or other related fields. Tell me about your training/background in the field.
How to Answer
Your beauty related training may include formal courses or on-the-job training. Likely this training is already listed on your resume; however, the interviewer would like for you to go into further detail. Be sure to express how your education will benefit Aveda, should you be hired.
For example, if you have related education/training: "I attended CMC Makeup School in Texas. My specialty was SPFX makeup and body painting. This unique focus gives me an edge in the market because my creativity is tapped hugely. Also, CMC is one of the top beauty schools in the US so you can be assured that I come well trained and could be a tremendous asset to Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I attended CMC Makeup School in Texas. My specialty was SPFX makeup and body painting. This unique focus gives me an edge in the market because my creativity is tapped hugely. Also, CMC is one of the top beauty schools in the US so you can be assured that I come well trained and could be a tremendous asset to Aveda."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have the related education/training: "I do not have formal training in makeup and beauty; however, since I was a young teen, I've watched and tried online beauty tutorials for hours a week. The beauty industry is a passion of mine that I have immersed myself in for years, so I do consider myself well trained and up-to-date on trends and techniques. I would look forward to the opportunity to prove my skills to the Aveda team."
Written by Michelle Clark
23. Tell me about your favorite Aveda product - what do you like about it?
How to Answer
This is your chance to assure the interviewer that you have a personal interest in Aveda products and services and that the products mean something to you. Make sure to research their products, and if you haven't used very many or aren't confident speaking to their specifics, use the website to identify fan favorites, legacy brands, etc., that are described on the site.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a few favorite products from Aveda; however, if I had to choose just one I would have to say that Shampure is a tried-and-true favorite. It's gentle and protects my hair from buildup, plus the lavender smells amazing."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If you have not used their products before: "I have heard many great things about Product ABC and saw from your website that it is a best seller. I look forward to giving it a shot!"
Written by Michelle Clark
3rd Answer Example
"If you have used the products before, and especially if you're a loyal Aveda customer, consider telling the story of the first Aveda product you tried. That will add some nostalgia and personal interest to your answer: "I'd have to say my favorite is the very first Aveda product I ever tried, which was the Rosemary Mint shampoo and conditioner. My favorite stylist introduced me to it years ago, and I've been loyal ever since. It's great for waking up my senses first thing in the morning."
Written by Michelle Clark
24. At Aveda we seek to hire those who have a true passion for the beauty industry. How do you stay up to date on industry trends?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you have a genuine interest in this industry. Perhaps you follow a few beauty bloggers? Maybe you read specific magazines, or follow the Living Aveda blog for updates on new and unique products. Keep your answer brief and informative.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a keen interest in the beauty industry. Some of the ways that I stay in touch with industry trends is by reading the Living Aveda blog and following The Beauty Blog online. I also follow a few great Instagram accounts [name them]."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I stay up-to-date on industry trends through reading magazines and pursuing continued education [give examples]. Also, I have a mentor who has been in the beauty industry for quite some time. She helps me to stay up-to-date on new happenings in the industry. Aveda has resources, like the Living Aveda blog and the 'How To' videos on the Aveda website, that I also find helpful and informative."
Written by Michelle Clark
25. The beauty industry is very competitive. Why do you want to work for Aveda?
How to Answer
Openly discuss with the interviewer why you want to work for Aveda versus their competitors. Keep your answer brief, and positive.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I want to work for Aveda because you have been my favorite place to shop for the past six years! I love what you stand for - your values of responsible sourcing, manufacturing and packaging mesh well with my desire to be a good steward of the earth's resources."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In a competitive industry, I want to work for the best! I believe that Aveda is the best because you are intentional about the type of product you distribute - you promote balance, harmony and responsibility while also producing some of the most luxurious and effective beauty products in the world."
Written by Michelle Clark
26. We take customer service very seriously at Aveda. If a customer wanted to return a makeup product that had been significantly used, what would you do?
How to Answer
If you can research the return policy at Aveda before your interview, refer to it when answering this question. Be sure to think about what you would like to hear as a customer while keeping the profits of the company in mind. Keep in mind, the interviewer has given you a clue by referencing how seriously Aveda takes customer service.
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I agree that customer service is paramount, and I would make sure to familiarize myself with all appropriate employee policies regarding how to handle tricky situations like this. Sometimes the customer relationship is more valuable than the product in question. If a customer had used a significant amount of the product before returning, I would always rely on company policy and training and, if unsure, I would call a manager for assistance."
Written by Michelle Clark on July 30th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In this situation, I would review company policy and accept the return if at all possible in order to protect a valuable customer relationship. I would also try to check with a manager for confirmation."
Written by Michelle Clark