How do you feel about performance incentives?

"I think performance incentives are a great idea -- they keep me motivated to do a great job, and I like knowing that I'm contributing to making sure our team is on top of our KPIs. I'm extremely motivated by being rewarded for my successes."

Performance incentives can be very motivating, and you may have the opportunity to take advantage of such incentives at Barnes and Noble. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.

"I've never worked in a position that offers performance incentives, but that's never stopped me from staying motivated. However, small perks are always nice to have!"

Why is this job with Barnes and Noble right for you at this time in your career?

"I've worked in retail since I graduated high school, first as a cashier, then a sales associate, and now as an assistant manager. But I feel like I've stalled in my forward movement. I want to keep moving up, maybe even to a district or regional management position, but I don't think I will get that opportunity with my current company. I know that Barnes and Noble offers opportunities for upward movement and cross-training in multiple departments. At this point in my career, that training and those opportunities are exactly what I need, and I hope that my years of experience will also fill a need for Barnes and Noble."

Barnes and Noble wants to hire dedicated employees committed to serving their customers and acting in the company's best interest. They do not want to hire candidates who are just looking for any job they can get. Explain why you were attracted to a position at Barnes and Noble and what you hope to get out of the job. If you are hoping to find a long-term fit, mention that. If you plan to use this job as a starting point for your career, that is okay, too. Tell the interviewer how long you plan to stay, what you hope to learn on the job, and how it will help you advance your career.

"This job will fit perfectly with my school schedule. I hope to be given full-time hours once I complete my education. I am excited to work for Barnes and Noble because of the flexibility you offer students and the growth potential."

What type of manager brings out the best in you?

"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best with a manager who allows me autonomy while still investing time in me through mentorship and training. Can you describe the management style here?"

Every manager is different, and employees work best with different management styles. Consider your previous managers, their management styles, and how you worked with them. If you are new to the workforce, you might respond best to a coaching manager who encourages and educates their staff. Or perhaps you work best with a hands-off manager who delegates and schedules rather than working closely with their staff. Before your interview, familiarize yourself with the various types of management styles and identify the one you respond best to. Be honest. Interviewers ask this question to determine if the candidate will fit their environment and will often try to pair new employees with compatible managers.

"I am still fairly new to the workforce, so I think I would work best with a manager who acts like a coach. I'd like to work under someone who can teach me the job while encouraging me to do my best. That said, I also hope that, once I learn the job well enough to do it on my own, my manager allows me to work under less supervision so that I am free to shine on my own."

What would you do if your supervisor failed to give you necessary information?

"If my supervisor didn't give me the information I needed to complete a task, I would ask them for the missing information directly if possible. I want to do the job right the first time, and I can't do that without the right information. That said, I understand managers are busy and may not have time to answer every question. If that was the case, I'd go to a senior coworker to find out what I needed to know."

Barnes and Noble's employees need to be excellent communicators. While this is necessary for interactions with customers, it is also crucial for collaboration. A successful team must understand each person's responsibilities and how it all works together. However, just like everyone else, managers make mistakes. Sometimes long-time employees forget that new staff might not have all the information they have. Tell the interviewer how you would approach a task without the necessary information. You might ask your manager directly for the missing information or take the initiative to research and find the information yourself. If you have dealt with a similar situation, draw upon your experience in your answer.

"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."

How would you describe your personality?

"I would describe myself as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I work well with my coworkers and customers, and my positive attitude is contagious."

A company as large as Barnes and Noble is bound to have all types of personalities. Your interviewer wants to ensure you will mesh well with their current staff. Focus on the personality traits that make you a good employee and teammate, such as honesty and reliability.

"I'm a confident communicator, and I'm very friendly! I love engaging new people in conversation. My last boss always described me as a go-getter; I enjoy challenges and pushing myself to achieve new goals."

What type of work environment do you dislike working in?

"I prefer working in a positive environment where teamwork is encouraged. If I'm surrounded by negativity, I know I will not give my best work."

A job interview is about more than just determining if you are a fit for the company. You should also try to determine if the company and position are right for you. Barnes and Noble doesn't want to hire a candidate who isn't comfortable with or doesn't work well with their environment. Think about the environments you've worked in previously. What did you like about it, and what didn't you like? Describe an environment you would have trouble giving your best work in. Be specific, but avoid speaking negatively about your previous employers.

"I've spent a lot of time in Barnes and Noble stores, and I've always appreciated how the sales associates work together, treat each other with respect, and always seem to be having fun! That's the exact kind of environment I'm looking for at work, and I'd love the chance to add my positive attitude and attention to detail to the team here."

Aside from your allotted vacation days, how many days were you absent from work last year?

"Aside from my week of vacation, I took two sick days last year - one when I had a stomach bug and one for a doctor's appointment. I am a reliable employee, and if you hire me, I will do everything I can to show up for every shift. If I ever do need time off due to illness or another emergency, I will contact the appropriate manager or supervisor as soon as possible so they can find coverage."

Barnes and Noble needs reliable, consistent employees. Like most companies, they offer paid time off for vacation and sick days. However, they expect their employees to give proper notice before taking personal time and valid reasons for using sick days. Give an honest answer. Remember that the hiring manager may contact your previous employer; if you are dishonest, they may find out. Assure your interviewer that you are reliable and will show up for your shifts eager to work.

"I had to miss three days of work last year when I got the flu. However, 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."

Describe your ideal employer.

"My ideal employer cares about their employees and the community. I want to work with a boss and coworkers who know and appreciate me. I also want to work for a company that is involved in the community. That is why I want to work for Barnes and Noble. This company does so many events and programs for the community, and you have such a good reputation for the way you treat your employees. I'm sure I would be happy here."

Think about the qualities that are important to you in an employer and what you value in a job. The interviewer wants to make sure that Barnes and Noble is the right fit for you. If there are specific aspects of Barnes and Noble's environment or policies that excite you, talk about them, but be honest. Your interviewer wants to know that this job is truly right for you.

"My ideal employer is organized, professional, and reliable. I want to work for a company that I can depend on. I also want to work for a company that appreciates their staff. That is one of the reasons I was drawn to Barnes and Noble. This company is very open about how hard their staff works and takes great effort to show that staff their appreciation."

What are your salary expectations?

"I currently make $15 per hour and work between 25 and 35 hours per week. I'm hoping to stay in the same range or slightly higher."

Explore Barnes and Noble's website to find information about the compensation they offer their employees. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise. It is best to give a range to leave room for negotiation. That way, you can avoid giving a number that is either too low or too high.

"I currently make minimum wage, and I'm happy to begin a position at Barnes and Noble in that same range. I'm hopeful that my hard work and dedication to the team will earn me a promotion or pay increase after some time. Does Barnes and Noble have any merit-based bonuses or pay-scale increases?"

Have you ever worked in a competitive environment? Would you enjoy working in a similar environment?

"My current sales position is highly commission-based, so my colleagues and I are quite competitive. Even when we're competing, we have a great work environment where we help each other when someone is struggling to meet their quota. We coach each other on sales techniques and share success stories. The result has been a positive work environment with healthy competition."

Some retail environments can be competitive, especially among sales associates. Some stores hold competitions between employees or stores in the district or region. If you have worked in a competitive environment, talk about that experience. If you haven't worked in that kind of environment, discuss what you might expect from such a job. Show the interviewer that you can rise to the challenge and are excited to push yourself to be the best.

"I've never worked in a competitive environment, but I imagine it can be a lot of fun. I enjoy friendly competition. As long as everyone supports and encourages each other, I think competition can spur workers to give their best. I intend to work hard no matter the environment, but if Barnes and Noble encourages competition, I plan to rise to the occasion."

What do you hope to learn from this job at Barnes and Noble?

"I am looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career with this position. I hope to increase my already strong skills in sales as well as learn more about running a store. Someday, I would love to become a store manager or even open my own small retail business."

Employees at Barnes and Noble have the opportunity to learn a wide variety of skills. Share what you hope to get out of your experience at Barnes and Noble. Review the job description and information about related careers to get a better idea of what you have to look forward to. Discuss how this position will help you in your career.

"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 daily. I believe this will improve my confidence and sales skills."

Do you have reliable transportation?

"I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to the store every day."

Companies in the United States are not legally allowed to ask candidates if they own a vehicle in an interview. However, your interviewer will want to know if you will reliably show up on time for your scheduled shifts. Let the interviewer know about your transportation plans, whether that includes driving, walking, taking public transit, or riding a bike.

"I take public transit and find it to be very reliable. I always plan for unexpected delays and take an earlier bus if I know it's a heavy-traffic day. I make sure I arrive at least 5-10 minutes early for my shifts."

What do you do if you think you will be late or miss work?

"I hate being late and always do everything I can to avoid it. If I'm not five minutes early, I feel like I'm already late! Cincinnati winters can make travel hard, so I always give myself extra time when there's snow or ice. If it can't be avoided, I contact my supervisor as soon as I realize I might be late. When starting a new job, I get the appropriate contact information for the manager on day one for exactly this reason."

Barnes and Noble expects its employees to be reliable and punctual, but your interviewer understands that unexpected circumstances happen. A reliable employee will be considerate enough to contact the appropriate supervisor or manager in the case of traffic, bad weather, or another emergency that could cause them to be late or miss work. Your interviewer wants to know that you are proactive and can handle the stress of unexpected situations that could affect arriving to work on time.

"I hope never to be late! When I started working at a restaurant at sixteen, we were taught the adage, '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 unforeseen circumstances sometimes arise. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others in mind."

What was the last book you read?

"I just finished the second book in Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series. I love fantasy novels, and I think this series has such an interesting magic system. I can't wait to read the third book!"

As a bookseller, Barnes and Noble wants to hire candidates who are interested in reading. It is not uncommon for customers to ask employees for recommendations, and knowing about popular books and other media can be helpful. Tell the interviewer about a book you are currently reading or one you just finished.

"I'm almost finished rereading It by Stephen King. I read it a long time ago, but when the new movies came out recently, I decided to read the novel again. I love horror novels, and Stephen King is such a great writer!"

Where do you see yourself in five years?

"I'm looking for a long-term job. I think very highly of Barnes and Noble and would love to settle down here. In five years, I hope to have gotten more confident in my leadership skills and moved into a management position."

This question is another way for the interviewer to determine if this job is a good fit for you. If you hope to stay with Barnes and Noble long-term, mention that and describe how you would like to grow within the company, whether that includes learning new skills or promotions. If you plan to use this job as a jumping-off point for your career, that is okay, too. However, the interviewer will want to hear what you hope to gain from this job with Barnes and Noble and how that will help you on your career path. That will assure them that you will be committed to the company for as long as you are with them.

"In five years, I hope to be a high school English teacher. I'm in my sophomore year of college right now, and, if hired here at Barnes and Noble, I plan to stay until I graduate. I think this job can teach me so much that I will bring to my classroom - organizational and administration skills, communication skills, and, of course, daily conversations about great literature!"

Why are you the best candidate for us?

"I am a dedicated hard worker. When something needs to be done, I don't stop until it's finished. I'm also knowledgeable. I'm well-read and love giving book recommendations or helping someone find their next favorite book. I also noticed in your job description that you are looking for a tech-savvy candidate. I am comfortable with computers and can run basic computer programs, like Microsoft Office. I am also a proud Nook owner and would be happy to help customers set up their Nooks or help them solve technical problems."

The interviewer is asking why they should hire you over anyone else. This question is an opportunity to pitch yourself. Carefully look at the job description and dissect what the hiring company is genuinely looking for in a candidate. Be prepared to discuss a few of the hard and soft skills that you know will help you succeed in the job.

"I have a few years of experience in retail, which makes me a strong candidate for this position. I'm also friendly and outgoing and connect easily with customers. I do everything within my power to make each customer's experience a positive one. I love working with others, and my positivity is infectious!"

How would you handle a conflict with a coworker?

"If I have a conflict with a coworker, I try to deal with it directly. Ignoring it or avoiding my coworker won't solve anything. Last year, a coworker and I had a misunderstanding that turned into a conflict. I called off sick, and they were called in to cover my shift. They were under the impression that I had lied and just called off to get a three-day weekend. When I returned to work, I realized they were angry with me, so I approached them and asked if I had done something wrong. They explained why they were angry. I said I was sorry they had to cover my shift, but I really was sick. I explained that I wouldn't fake being sick just to get a day off. I'm not sure they believed me at first, but eventually, my work ethic spoke for itself. I'm glad I handled it directly, though, because otherwise, we would have just been avoiding each other for weeks, which would have made working together very challenging."

The interviewer wants to see that you will take accountability for conflict while maintaining poise and professionalism in the workplace. Consider telling a story that demonstrates your approach to conflict in the workplace. You can also use an example from school or volunteering experience if you don't have prior work experience. Focus your response on how you approached a solution rather than dwelling on the problem. Assure the interviewer that you are a well-equipped professional capable of handling conflict promptly and effectively. Show that you handle workplace conflict tactfully and with grace.

"If I had a disagreement with a coworker, I would try to have a constructive conversation with them to solve the problem. I think most conflicts in the workplace can be solved with open and honest communication. If both parties feel listened to and have a chance to explain their side, it's easier to get to the root of the problem and find a solution."

What is your greatest weakness?

"My biggest weakness concerning this position is my lack of experience. However, I am eager to learn. I have a positive outlook, and I think my enthusiasm for the job and helping customers will shine through. I plan to pay close attention during my training and do everything in my power to learn from my more seasoned coworkers."

Barnes and Noble does not expect perfection from their employees. They do, however, expect their employees to recognize their shortcomings and work to improve them. Be honest, and assure your interviewer that you are working to overcome that weakness.

"I have a difficult time asking for help. Too often, I try to tackle large projects on my own and get overwhelmed by the amount of work, even when my bosses didn't intend for me to do the project alone. I'm learning to recognize when a task is too big for me to do on my own and working on asking for help when I need it."

How would you handle a customer who is aggressive towards you or a co-worker?

"If I had an aggressive and disrespectful customer, I would calmly but firmly ask them to calm down. I would do my best to work with the customer and solve their problem, but if they were a threat to my coworkers, the other customers, or me, I wouldn't hesitate to call a manager or security if necessary."

Employees in customer-facing roles regularly encounter angry or upset customers, and sometimes those customers can become aggressive and rude. Barnes and Noble expects their employees to be professional and diplomatic when handling such customers. Tell the interviewer how you would deal with an aggressive customer. This might include taking deep breaths to keep your composure, acknowledging the customer's feelings, or involving a supervisor to defuse the situation. If you have experience dealing with aggressive customers, draw on that experience in your response.

"I know that customers are just people like the rest of us; we all have bad days! If a customer was upset, I would make them feel heard and understood, and then I would let them know I would do everything I could to address their concerns. Sometimes, people just need to know that their problems are important to someone else. I would maintain my calm disposition and positive attitude."

What is your approach to customer service?

"I treat my customers the way I would want to be treated as a customer. I answer their questions to the best of my ability, work to find the best solutions to their problems, and treat them with kindness and respect. My goal is to have the customer leave the store happy and satisfied with their experience."

Barnes and Noble is committed to providing an exceptional experience for their employees and customers. They expect their employees to provide the best customer experience possible. Tell the interviewer how you intend to treat their customers as a member of their team. They will look for a candidate who will go above and beyond their expectations.

"I ensure that my customers' needs are met by actively listening to them and also asking the right questions. If I'm working on a task and a customer interrupts me with a question or request, I always stop and help them before going back to my task."

What do you know about Barnes and Noble? Why do you want to work for us?

"I've been a Barnes and Noble customer for years -- I'm an avid reader and am working on getting my degree in English. With over 1 million titles to choose from, they're my one-stop book-buying shop. I would love to work at a company where I can share my love of books with other Barnes and Noble customers!"

You are likely familiar with Barnes and Noble's reputation as a book retailer, but the company has recently undergone change to stay relevant among today's consumers. In addition to the books and other products in their physical stores, they are committed to providing digital products and services that are accessible to the widest possible audience.Before your interview, explore the company's website and familiarize yourself with the company, its products and services, and its values. Be prepared to talk about what intrigues you about this job.

"I am an avid reader and would love to have a job where I am surrounded by books all day. That said, I know brick-and-mortar books stores have been going out of style. I recently learned about Barnes and Noble's commitment to accessibility, and I'm glad to hear that the company is adapting to this new generation of digital readers. I've looked into some of the products and services Barnes and Noble offers, including your blog, podcast, and, of course, the Nook e-reader, and I think all of them are a great way to connect with customers. I'd love to work for a company that works so hard to connect with its customers."

What would you do if a customer argued with you about a potential return?

"Argumentative customers can be stressful, but I have experience handling them professionally. If a customer argued with me about the company's return policy, I would respectfully explain the policy again, assuring the customer that I have done everything within my power to help them. If they still did not accept my answer, I would call for a manager. A manager may choose to override a policy if the situation calls for it, but as an associate, that wouldn't be my place. My job is to provide the best customer service possible within the company's express guidelines."

Barnes and Noble's return policy is clearly stated on their website. They expect their employees to follow it closely. However, staff must also interact with customers respectfully and courteously. Describe how you would handle an argumentative customer professionally. Remember, as a Barnes and Noble associate, your job would be to act in the best interest of the company.

"I know that return policies are set for a reason, and being a good team-member means abiding by all of the rules and policies of the company. I've been in situations in the past where customers were angry with me about policies I had no control over. When this happens, I just have to listen patiently, not take their criticism personally, and work with them to find a solution to their problem that aligns with the company's policies."

"The first thing I would do in a situation like this is to remain as calm as possible and listen to what the customer has to say. I would also follow company procedures for these types of situations."

What would you do if you found a co-worker stealing product or money?

"As an associate, if I discovered a coworker stealing, I would report it to my manager. While I don't condone theft of any kind, it isn't my place to confront the employee in this situation. That way, the manager can handle it according to the company's protocol, and the situation wouldn't get personal."

Stealing product or money from your employer is a serious offense. Theft of any kind hurts the company. Barnes and Noble wants to avoid hiring employees who may steal from their company, but they also want employees who will do what they can to prevent theft. Assure the interviewer that you do not tolerate theft or dishonesty. In nearly every situation, the best course of action when discovering that a coworker is stealing from the company is to report the incident to a supervisor or manager.

"I once had a coworker who asked me to help him steal, and it was so uncomfortable! I would never steal something for any reason, so it was easy to say no to him. Even though it was hard to tell my manager and know that my coworker would likely be terminated, I knew I had to do the right thing. What is the process for those kinds of situations at Barnes and Noble?"

"If this were to happen, I would confront them in person, and try and get them to confess. If that didn't work, I would report them to my supervisor."

On a scale of 1-10, how strong are your mathematical skills?

"I did very well in math during high school and am comfortable with the skills required when it comes to accepting cash, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."

Many roles in a retail environment like Barnes and Noble require basic math skills. You may be responsible for handling customer transactions or keeping track of inventory. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with these math-related tasks.

"My math skills are strong, and I am confident that I can meet your expectations when it comes to accepting payment from customers."

"I would say that I am at least an 8. My basic math skills are strong, so I feel that I can meet your expectations."

Our staff are responsible for designing the in-store displays. Would you say you have the creativity to design engaging and appealing displays?

"I have a strong creative flair, and I think I would enjoy creating displays! I think I have enough experience in retail to understand what attracts a customer and what prompts them to purchase, and I'm eager to learn more. The displays I have seen in your stores are fascinating, and I would love to be a part of those creative projects."

Barnes and Noble's brick-and-mortar stores use creative displays to attract customers. As an employee, you may be expected to work on these displays. Discuss your experience with product displays. If you don't have experience creating your own displays, talk about displays you've seen and what you liked about them. You can also share your ideas for a display.

"I don't have experience creating displays, but I love looking at the ones I've seen in other bookstores. I've seen some very creative ones! I would enjoy trying it out. If I were creating a book display, I think I would make a fantasy-themed one. I would use a cardboard cut-out of a castle for the backdrop, maybe with a dragon climbing on it. The display would have popular fantasy books like the Game of Thrones series and The Lord of the Rings."

Are you interested in working towards a leadership role with us?

"I would be very excited to pursue a role in leadership within Barnes and Noble. I'm confident that my hard work, attention to detail, and strong communication skills will make me well-suited for a leadership position."

Barnes and Noble offers its employees many opportunities, including training in different areas and upward movement within the company. Before your interview, explore the employment opportunities that Barnes and Noble offers and consider if you might be interested in working toward a leadership position. Talking about your interest in moving up in the company will demonstrate your ambition and determination to succeed, as well as your interest in staying with the company long-term.

"I've never been in an official leadership position in a work environment, but I've had leadership experience as the captain of my college's volleyball team. In my current job, I often take the lead when assigned a group project. I am excited for the opportunity to work for Barnes and Noble in any capacity, but I would love to take on a leadership role eventually. I have the skills and determination to be a strong leader, and with the training that this company provides, I can become the type of leader Barnes and Noble would be proud of."

What three qualities make you a strong fit for this position?

"I am a hard worker, always willing to do jobs others don't want to do. For example, my previous employer had difficulty finding staff to cover the early-morning shift. I volunteered to take the shift because I knew my managers needed a responsible employee to open the shop. I also have a positive attitude, which usually rubs off on my coworkers and customers. I get along well with others and enjoy working as part of a team. In a retail setting like Barnes and Noble's, collaboration and a positive attitude can go a long way, and I think those qualities will make me a valuable employee."

Take the time to research Barnes and Noble and the position you are applying for. Familiarize yourself with the company, its goals, and what makes it unique. Think about the unique qualities that make you stand out from other candidates. Emphasize why those qualities make you a great fit for the position. Provide concrete examples of how your skills and qualifications have helped you succeed in past positions. This will help demonstrate to the interviewer why you are the right person for the job.

What is your availability?

"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."

Be honest and transparent about your availability. Let the interviewer know what days and times you are available to work. Barnes and Noble is open to customers on weekends, evenings, and sometimes holidays. Their employees are expected to have flexible schedules and be open to working outside typical business hours, so keep that in mind when you answer.

"I understand this role will include working evenings, weekends, and holidays, and I am okay with that. I have a prior family commitment on Sunday evenings, but that is the only time I will be unavailable. Otherwise, I am happy to work any shifts where I am needed."

What would you do if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?

"If a coworker couldn't make it for their shift, I would try to make the most of it. If I was working the same shift, and we were short-handed, I would work that much harder to make up for their absence. If my manager called me to cover a coworker's shift, I would step up if I was available. I don't mind accepting overtime hours, and I consider myself a team player."

In a big company like Barnes and Noble, there will be days when coworkers call out sick, sometimes with little notice. Barnes and Noble needs adaptable and flexible employees. Assure the interviewer that you are a team player and would be happy to step in if your manager needed a shift covered at the last minute. In situations like this, a positive attitude goes a long way. It's easy to complain when a coworker's absence puts more work on your shoulders, but a positive response will get the interviewer's attention.

"Right now, I have plenty of free time, and my schedule is very flexible. As long as I'm available, I'm always happy to cover a coworker's shift if they're unable to make it. In the past, I've also volunteered to stay late to cover shifts that coworkers didn't show up for, and I'd almost always be able to do that at Barnes and Noble as well."

What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?

"I know how important it is that my coworkers and managers can trust me with the merchandise and cash. During my exit interview at my last job, my manager told me that he found me extremely trustworthy and would hire me again if I ever wanted to return to the company."

Barnes and Noble values honesty and integrity. Your interviewers will likely ask a question or two about your character to determine if you will be the right person for this job. Assure the interviewer that you can be trusted. Draw on examples from formal performance reviews or even informal conversations with your managers or supervisors. Be honest; the hiring manager may contact your former employer to ask about your character, in which case any inconsistencies from your interview will be discovered.

"My most recent team leader told me multiple times that she considered me to be a person of integrity and honesty, which I appreciated. I want to be a person my coworkers and managers can trust."

Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Barnes and Noble?

"As a Barnes and Noble customer, I've noticed your company's collaborative environment. Every time I walk into the store, the staff are friendly and welcoming to customers and encouraging and supportive of each other. Teamwork is so important in most industries, but it is essential in retail. I am a team player and work best with a team of hard-working, supportive coworkers. I think I would fit right in with the rest of your team."

Barnes and Noble considers themselves a collaborative, supportive environment. They encourage their employees to be involved in the community and pursue upward movement within the company. Before your interview, explore Barnes and Noble's website to learn more about their values and determine how you would fit in such an environment. Tell the interviewer how you intend to contribute to and support the company's values.

"While exploring your website, I learned that Barnes and Noble recently began prioritizing accessibility, specifically access to digital resources. The popularity of e-books and other forms of digital media hurt a lot of brick-and-mortar booksellers, so I was excited to see that Barnes and Noble is making a comeback. While I love reading physical books, I also appreciate the convenience of technology. I have a background in IT and love to teach. Along with my regular duties of cashiering, shelving, doing inventory, and helping customers find what they need in the store, I would also enjoy helping customers who come in with issues with their Nooks and other digital services."

Take me through your experience in retail. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite and why?

"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 to. 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."

From books to media to the cafe, Barnes and Noble strives to create great customer experiences. Walk the interviewer through your career history in retail and highlight your favorite and most challenging positions. If you don't have any retail experience, that's okay! You have likely gained the experience and skills needed to make customers happy in your other professional and personal relationships, and you can let the interviewer know that you are excited to make the transition to retail.

"While I haven't yet worked in a retail environment, I'm excited to get started! I love learning new things, especially when it comes to working with and serving other people. In college, I worked in a writing lab where I helped younger students correct their essays and prepare for English exams. It was a challenging job, but I learned so much about listening to other people's needs, practicing patience, and helping frustrated students feel more at ease. I think that experience set me up for success in the retail world."

Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond what was expected of you.

"Last week, I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff complained that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her workload so she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help."

At Barnes and Noble, customer service always comes first. Your interviewers are looking for helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable candidates who will do more than the bare minimum. Think of a specific example that demonstrates your commitment to exceeding expectations. Focus on the actions you took, not the outcome of the situation. Showcase your enthusiasm for the task and willingness to take on additional responsibility.

"Last month, an older customer came in and asked for help finding a toy for her granddaughter. She was embarrassed to admit that her memory wasn't great, and she couldn't remember the name of the toy. I could have easily told her I couldn't help her, apologized, and walked away, but I decided to help her as best I could. She described the toy, and I took her to the aisle where I thought it might be. I showed her several toys, pointing out the similarities to the one she described until we found the one she wanted. She was so thankful that I took the time to help her, but I was just glad that she was able to leave with the item she wanted."

How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?

"I prefer to be recognized privately for my accomplishments at work. I hate being the center of attention, so I don't like public recognition. However, I still like being told that my hard work is appreciated. At my last job, my manager would leave thank-you notes on my desk with a candy bar, which I enjoyed."

While financial compensation and benefits are necessary motivating factors for employees, Barnes and Noble aims to create a working environment that inspires and encourages their staff to give their best work. Consider what would motivate you to reach for success. This might include public recognition, bonuses, or title promotions.

"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."

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

"My previous employer was a used book store. We were in a small building, and the aisles were messy and cramped. I noticed that many of our customers would quickly get frustrated trying to navigate the store and often left without buying anything. I suggested to the owner that we reorganize the store to open it up and organize the sections better. The owner agreed that we needed a new organizational system but didn't know where to start. I helped her draw out a new layout plan. We closed the shop for a few days one week, cleared the shelves, moved them around to make more room in the aisles, and reorganized the books. When we reopened, customers complimented us on the new layout, and nearly everyone who walked in the door left with a handful of books. The owner was thrilled with the change, and I was happy that my idea was successful."

Barnes and Noble understands that change is necessary for the company's success. When digital books and media began to deter customers from shopping in their brick-and-mortar stores, the company adapted and focused their resources on making more digital resources accessible to their customers. Your interviewer will be looking for a candidate who is not only willing to adapt to change but can identify the need for change and take the initiative to recommend that change to their supervisors or managers. Talk about a time you saw the need for a change in the workplace and explain how you presented the idea to your higher-ups. This change doesn't need to be big, but it should be impactful.

"When I began my most recent job at a family-run shop, the owners operated based on trust and didn't have a loss prevention plan. I suggested we install a few cameras inside the store to deter anyone from stealing. So far, we have seen a 56% decline in the overall loss."

Barnes and Noble Interview Questions

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1. How do you feel about performance incentives?
2. Why is this job with Barnes and Noble right for you at this time in your career?
3. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
4. What would you do if your supervisor failed to give you necessary information?
5. How would you describe your personality?
6. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
7. Aside from your allotted vacation days, how many days were you absent from work last year?
8. Describe your ideal employer.
9. What are your salary expectations?
10. Have you ever worked in a competitive environment? Would you enjoy working in a similar environment?
11. What do you hope to learn from this job at Barnes and Noble?
12. Do you have reliable transportation?
13. What do you do if you think you will be late or miss work?
14. What was the last book you read?
15. Where do you see yourself in five years?
16. Why are you the best candidate for us?
17. How would you handle a conflict with a coworker?
18. What is your greatest weakness?
19. How would you handle a customer who is aggressive towards you or a co-worker?
20. What is your approach to customer service?
21. What do you know about Barnes and Noble? Why do you want to work for us?
22. What would you do if a customer argued with you about a potential return?
23. What would you do if you found a co-worker stealing product or money?
24. On a scale of 1-10, how strong are your mathematical skills?
25. Our staff are responsible for designing the in-store displays. Would you say you have the creativity to design engaging and appealing displays?
26. Are you interested in working towards a leadership role with us?
27. What three qualities make you a strong fit for this position?
28. What is your availability?
29. What would you do if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?
30. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
31. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Barnes and Noble?
32. Take me through your experience in retail. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite and why?
33. Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond what was expected of you.
34. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
35. Tell me about a time you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.

Barnes and Noble Interview Questions

1. How do you feel about performance incentives?

2. Why is this job with Barnes and Noble right for you at this time in your career?

3. What type of manager brings out the best in you?

4. What would you do if your supervisor failed to give you necessary information?

5. How would you describe your personality?

6. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?

7. Aside from your allotted vacation days, how many days were you absent from work last year?

8. Describe your ideal employer.

9. What are your salary expectations?

10. Have you ever worked in a competitive environment? Would you enjoy working in a similar environment?

11. What do you hope to learn from this job at Barnes and Noble?

12. Do you have reliable transportation?

13. What do you do if you think you will be late or miss work?

14. What was the last book you read?

15. Where do you see yourself in five years?

16. Why are you the best candidate for us?

17. How would you handle a conflict with a coworker?

18. What is your greatest weakness?

19. How would you handle a customer who is aggressive towards you or a co-worker?

20. What is your approach to customer service?

21. What do you know about Barnes and Noble? Why do you want to work for us?

22. What would you do if a customer argued with you about a potential return?

23. What would you do if you found a co-worker stealing product or money?

24. On a scale of 1-10, how strong are your mathematical skills?

25. Our staff are responsible for designing the in-store displays. Would you say you have the creativity to design engaging and appealing displays?

26. Are you interested in working towards a leadership role with us?

27. What three qualities make you a strong fit for this position?

28. What is your availability?

29. What would you do if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?

30. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?

31. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Barnes and Noble?

32. Take me through your experience in retail. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite and why?

33. Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond what was expected of you.

34. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?

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