31 Belk Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Belk, we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
Display to the interviewer that you can do more than the bare minimum. Show that you can react appropriately when you see that your employer has a need that goes beyond your usual day-to-day expectations.
1st Answer Example
"Last week I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff were complaining that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her workload so that she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help but also benefited me by way of organization."
2nd Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer make a purchase, and I noticed that she was struggling with her bags. She had a stroller, a couple of kids, and a lot of bags to carry. I offered to help her out to her car, and she gratefully accepted. It felt excellent to go above the call of duty that day."
2. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
The retail industry can be stressful, fast-paced, and constantly changing -- and this kind of environment can make some employees feel flustered or stressed out. The interviewer wants to get a feel for how you respond to unexpected situations, so talk to them about how you would handle an unexpected situation that threatened to make you late for work.
1st Answer Example
"I always give myself an extra time-buffer when I leave for work in case something unexpected comes up -- that way, I'm not stressed out if something happens. The extra time I build into getting to work will give me time to contact my manager if I get delayed -- and if nothing else, it never hurts to arrive early for work!"
2nd Answer Example
"I'm very cool-headed and even-tempered, so I don't panic when something unexpected happens on my way to work. I had a flat tire a few months ago, and I immediately called my manager and let her know I would likely be late. I changed my tire and only ended up being about fifteen minutes late for my shift; since I had notified my manager, she was able to navigate around my temporary absence, and there was no reason for anyone to be stressed."
3. Do you have reliable transportation?
How to Answer
Even if you're not expected to drive for the job, you will need to have some form of reliable transportation. If you take the bus or ride a bike, that works too! Merely share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time.
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."
2nd Answer Example
"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year, and that was due to a snowstorm which stalled all of our employee's commute - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Belk?
How to Answer
At Belk, we offer trainings and development opportunities throughout your career with us with a variety of instructor-led sessions, online courses, reference materials, and on-the-job activities -- we're committed to empowering our employees to take ownership of their careers and helping you learn whatever you want to learn about the retail industry. Talk to the interviewer about what you hope to learn during your time with Belk.
1st Answer Example
"I'm interested in several different facets of the retail industry and haven't yet decided what direction I want to take my career. I'm excited about all of the learning opportunities available through Belk, and I can't wait to dive in and find out my home in the retail world!"
2nd Answer Example
"I am looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career with this position. I looked at a lot of job postings and had interviewed some very carefully selected places, but you are by far my front-runner. I want to learn not only the fundamentals of sales but also become comfortable with both sides of the business. I appreciate that you want me to start with the basics of the inside sales before moving into outside sales."
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
At Belk, we understand the importance and interconnectedness of your personal and work life, and that a truly healthy work environment makes room for both. That's why we are committed to helping our associates achieve balance personally and professionally. Talk to the interviewer about how you expect to be compensated for your work with Belk.
1st Answer Example
"I'm happy to start out at minimum wage as long as I feel sure that I will have opportunities to work at least 20 hours per week and to eventually move into a leadership role where I can work full time."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $22/hour with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
6. How can Belk motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you find motivation on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I find it very motivating to work on a team with people who are doing their best work -- I'm a competitive person by nature, so I never want to be the weakest link on the team. If I'm surrounded by coworkers who are all focused on our team goals and their own personal goals, I'll do whatever I can to keep up with and exceed expectations and standards."
2nd Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leaderboard and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
There's a lot to love about working at Belk: from our rich heritage of community involvement and philanthropy to our commitment to a diverse and inclusive company culture that encourages innovation and creativity. What kinds of companies get your attention? What do you look for in an employer?
1st Answer Example
"I've shopped at Belk for many years but have only recently become familiar with The Belk Foundation -- I love that they invest so much money into public schools every year. My mother was a public school teacher, and I really appreciate that Belk recognizes that donations and partnerships with local public school systems can truly change lives. I'd be excited about working for a company that takes such active steps to help its local communities."
2nd Answer Example
"I'm definitely impressed by companies who put their values into action, especially in regards to diversity in all areas of their supply chain, corporate structure, and stores. I love that Belk partners with women- and minority-owned businesses to stimulate economic development in diverse communities -- that's something I'm passionate about, and I would be thrilled to work for a company whose values I feel so aligned with."
8. We need reliable people on our team at Belk. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2, and a note from my Doctor accompanied those. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very committed to my employer and am only absent in events of sickness or the odd family emergency. I do my best always to be available and present when expected."
9. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
At Belk, you will find a positive, inclusive, vibrant, and fast-paced environment where we expect you to take advantage of the tools and resources necessary to be effective at your job. Our sales associates love the fast pace and ever-changing nature of our stores, but we know that environment isn't right for everyone. Talk to the interviewer about any work environments that you haven't done well with in the past.
1st Answer Example
"I worked in a call center for several years, and I was definitely ill-suited for that environment. I worked in a cubicle with many other employees, but we rarely even spoke to each other. It was very isolating, and I think my work performance went down because I didn't feel motivated to do my best. I definitely do better in the retail industry; I love the fast pace and the fact that no two days are the same."
2nd Answer Example
"I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic. I do best in a supportive environment where there is room to grow, the ability to ask questions, and healthy co-worker relationships."
10. Personality fit is important to us at Belk. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
At Belk, we know that our sales associates are what make our stores extraordinary. We embrace a diverse and inclusive culture where the unique talents and perspectives of our associates fuel innovation and enable us to better serve our customers and communities. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered to bring your authentic self to work, so talk to the interviewer about your personality.
1st Answer Example
"Authenticity is really important to me, so I'm glad to know that Belk wants its employees to be themselves at work. I'm a really fun-loving, energetic person, but that never stops me from working hard and exceeding my sales goals. If you give me a task, I'll execute it to perfection, and I'll have fun while I'm doing it."
2nd Answer Example
"My friends always describe me as charismatic -- I think that's one of the reasons I work so well in sales. I have a lot of playful energy, and I love to make people feel special. When a customer walks into the store where I work now, I always try to find a way to sincerely compliment her, whether it's on her outfit, makeup, accessories, or smile. I want every person I interact with to feel welcome and embraced; that's really an essential part of my personality."
11. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
You cannot force others to communicate with you in a way that you would always prefer. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have handled a supervisor who does not interact with you in a way that you like.
1st Answer Example
"Whenever I have had a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. Sometimes you have to relate to others in their style to be understood."
2nd Answer Example
"I have had great supervisors in my previous positions; however, if faced with a communication challenge like this, I would ask the supervisor how I could improve communication between us. Rather than placing blame, I believe it's always more effective to ask for growth recommendations."
12. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The management team at Belk works hard to make sure that every sales associate has all of the tools they need to be the best at what they do, from our on-boarding programs to our continuous opportunities for training and development. Talk to the interviewer about successful relationships you've had with managers in the past. What made these relationships so positive?
1st Answer Example
"When I first started out in retail, I really felt out of my depth -- I had been working primarily desk jobs with limited interactions with others for several years, so the retail industry was a huge change. My manager was so patient and kind, and I really felt like she was invested in my success. She took time to train me in areas where I struggled, and I never felt like she was frustrated with me or that I was expected to understand everything all at once."
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best with a manager who allows me autonomy while still investing time in me through mentorship and training. Can you describe the management style here?"
13. Why is this job with Belk right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
One of our foundational values at Belk is to be committed to the success of our associates, so we offer continuous opportunities to learn and progress in your career with us, if that's what you choose. We're always excited to welcome new associates who are looking to build a career with Belk. Talk to the interviewer about your own career goals and how this position at Belk can help you work toward those goals.
1st Answer Example
"My long-term goal is to become a personal shopper -- I love dressing women, getting to know their personal style, interests, and lifestyle, and forming genuine connections with them. I'm hopeful that this position with Belk will help me form the contacts I need to be successful in my career and help me strengthen my already great communication and customer service skills. I would love to explore any opportunities to work as a personal shopper at Belk."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in Communication while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
14. What kinds of events cause you stress on the job? How do you respond to stress?
How to Answer
At Belk, we've worked hard to create an extraordinary company culture for our employees, but there are certain unavoidable realities in the retail industry: it's a fast-paced, competitive, ever-changing environment, and there are bound to be times of stress. Talk to the interviewer about stressors you've encountered in the workplace and how you respond to times of stress.
1st Answer Example
"I really love the retail industry and have found that it's the atmosphere I feel most comfortable and peaceful in for my working life. I do get stressed out if the relationships between team members aren't healthy; I have a tendency to absorb the emotional energy of others, so in the past I've had trouble focusing on my work if I know there's drama going on between my coworkers. I believe I've gotten better about this over the years, however; when I find myself feeling stressed, I try to channel my energy into efficiency and having great customer interactions."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel very stressed out by stationary, inactive work -- that's why I made the transition to retail from IT in the first place. I've been working in retail now for about three years, and my stress levels have honestly decreased so much. I do occasionally feel stressed out during times of extreme customer traffic, like at the holidays, but even that stress is fun as long as I'm working on a team with people who are committed to having a good time while providing excellent customer service."
15. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
At Belk, we embrace a diverse and inclusive culture where the unique talents and contributions of our employees fuel innovation and collaboration. That's why one of our company values is to be encouraging of growth and change. Have you ever suggested an improvement to a company you've worked for? How was your idea received? What was the outcome?
1st Answer Example
"A few years ago, I worked for a small family-run business that didn't have a marketing strategy of any kind -- they had a solid customer base but hadn't been experiencing any growth because not many people knew about them. After work for a few weeks, I did research on marketing strategies and web presence, then put together a presentation for the company owners. They were excited about the proposed changes, and we implemented the strategy to realize a substantial increase in our customers after only a few months. I was really proud of the suggestion I made."
2nd Answer Example
"Last year when I was managing our weekend shift, I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. I created a presentation and gave it to my manager who took it to upper management. The changes were implemented, and I was very proud of the suggestion that I made."
16. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
At Belk, we're passionate about our sales associates because we know that they're our secret weapons. That's why one of our foundational values is to be committed to the success of our associates. One of the ways we offer our support and commitment to our employees is by recognizing their individual accomplishments and contributions to our team. Talk to the interviewer about what kind of recognition means the most to you.
1st Answer Example
"I had a manager once who made it a habit to give employees handwritten notes of appreciation when she thought they had done a particularly good job. It was a small acknowledgement, but those notes always meant a lot to me -- it showed me that my manager saw me as a valuable member of the team and took time out of her busy day to acknowledge me."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is through words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is noticed."
17. This position requires a flexible schedule as we are open evenings, weekends, and most holidays. Are you able to commit to these hours?
How to Answer
Most retail positions require a wide range of hours that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and split shifts. Assure the interviewer that you can commit to a wide range of hours. If there is anything in your schedule that may hinder your availability, be sure to address this.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to offer a flexible schedule, and to work overtime as needed. I do take an evening college course on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so I would not be available those days, after 5 PM."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that this role will include working evenings, weekends, and holidays. I am available to work anytime and am happy to work overtime as well."
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I am willing to work evenings, weekends, and most holidays. If any schedule conflicts arise, I will make sure to notify you at least a week in advance."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
I suggest removing the final part of your answer because it creates doubt around scheduling complications that don't exist. If you have a specific restriction, it's important to mention this; however, discussing random conflicts that might come up in the future will only create confusion for the interviewer. Instead, you can further qualify yourself and help the interviewer feel confident in your reliability level by discussing the scheduling requirements that you meet in your current position. I've offered a revision for you below.
"Yes, I am willing to work evenings, weekends, and most holidays. In my current position, I work every weekend and many holidays. I am accustomed to providing flexibility to my team."
18. Take me through your experience in retail. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite, and why?
How to Answer
Though retail experience is preferred, it's more important that sales associates at Belk are capable of outstanding customer service, have a passion for the retail industry, and can adapt to change quickly and efficiently. While these are qualities that you can obtain through retail work, we know that it's possible to develop these qualities in other ways as well. Talk to the interviewer about your history in retail, if any, or how you have gained the necessary skills for this role.
1st Answer Example
"I haven't yet worked in the retail industry, but I've had several customer service-related jobs. Most recently, I've worked as a receptionist at a dental office, and I have definitely learned a lot about giving clients great service, being prepared to answer their questions, and adapting quickly to new tasks and changes. I'm confident that I can transfer these skills into my work at Belk, and I'm eager to learn more about customer service in the retail industry."
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in retail for the past eight years. My most challenging position was with Company ABC. I found it so challenging because it was a different industry than I was accustomed. I learned a great deal during that time. This position was also my favorite because it was such a great challenge. I like to be pushed beyond my boundaries. It keeps me motivated to be better."
19. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Belk?
How to Answer
At Belk, we believe that Southern isn't just a place -- it's an attitude, a state of mind, and a way of doing business that has made our company successful over the years. It's what makes us unique. That Southern hospitality is founded in our core values: be encouraging of growth and change, be proud of our rich heritage, be involved in our communities, be committed to the success of our associates, and be the best at what we do. Which of these values stand out to you most? How would you embody these values in your job at Belk?
1st Answer Example
"I really like that Belk is committed to encourage growth and change -- that's something I really value personally. I've worked in stores in the past that are slow to embrace change and innovation or that shy away from challenges. I love challenge and see challenges as opportunities for growth, so it makes me excited that Belk values that as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate that Belk is so focused on investing in its employees and in its community. I love our local community here, and I'm really invested in making it an even better place to live, work, and raise a family; I'm glad to know that I can partner with Belk in that way. I also love knowing that I would be working for a company that truly values and invests in its employees -- I've experienced job situations that don't value my individual contributions, so it would be a great change of pace to work for Belk!"
20. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Belk. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
Honesty is incredibly important when you are working in a retail environment based on a multitude of cash transactions. Assure the interviewer that you can be trusted by speaking about your character. Draw on the opinion of others to solidify your answer.
1st Answer Example
"My most recent employer and all others would say that I have strong character and always choose honesty first. I have solid references who will attest to that as well."
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent employer would say that I am a person of integrity. I fully believe in honesty at all times."
21. In this role, you may be tasked with assisting in the setup, running, and cleanup of our regular store events. Are you comfortable with this?
How to Answer
At Belk, we're passionate about our local communities. That's why we host regular store events, such as charity events and fashion shows to engage our community in all of the fun things going on at Belk. Do you feel confident in your abilities to assist in the setup, hosting, and tear-down of these events?
1st Answer Example
"Store events are one of the things I'm most excited about in this position! I was actually first introduced to Belk last year when I went to a charity event in the store, and I've been a dedicated shopper here ever since. I love event-planning, so I'd be thrilled to help out with any tasks related to in-store events."
2nd Answer Example
"I've never worked a function like a charity event or fashion show before, but I'd be excited to learn more and help out! The in-store events sound really fun."
22. Working in a retail environment, you will sometimes come across rude customers. How would you handle a customer who is rude towards you or a co-worker?
How to Answer
Belk sales associates are tasked with providing excellent customer service with our elevated Southern hospitality to every customer without exception -- even customers who don't offer our sales associates the same courtesy. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond to a rude customer.
1st Answer Example
"I think part of the Southern hospitality aesthetic that's so central to Belk's customer service strategy is to continue to be kind, open, friendly, and hospitable even when a customer is rude. After all, you never know what is going on in a customer's day or life that could be affecting their mood. If a customer is directly rude to me, I just give them space but make sure they know that I'm available if they have any questions or need assistance."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that there is never a good reason to treat a customer with anything less than respect and hospitality, even if they're being rude. When customers are rude to me, I don't take it personally, and I don't treat them any differently. Every customer deserves the same elevated, professional, and friendly customer service."
23. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Belk.
How to Answer
At Belk, we love our sales associates and know that they are our secret weapon. We're looking for passionate, energetic goal-driven employees to bring the best service to our customers. What are some qualities that make you stand out from other candidates? What makes you well-suited for a job at Belk?
1st Answer Example
"First, I'm an extremely professional person. The workplace is for work, and in the retail industry there's always something to do, even when there aren't many customers in the store. I balance my professionalism with my friendly, outgoing personality -- I think it's possible to have fun and work hard at the same time. I also just love the fashion industry and am always on top of the latest trends, so I'm very confident that I can help the Belk customer find everything that she's looking for."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a lot of qualities that transfer well into a retail-based position. The top ones would include my strong organization skills, my ability to have a conversation with anyone comfortably, and my solid work ethic/level of honesty."
24. At Belk we firmly believe in grooming our employees into management roles as they show potential. Are you interested in potential leadership roles with us?
How to Answer
We're always looking for talented individuals who are interested in a career, not just a job. The corporate team at Belk knows that our sales associates are our secret weapons, so we're always looking to invest in you so that you feel invested in us. That's why we offer training programs and plenty of opportunities for advancement. Talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in training to be in leadership or management with Belk.
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking to start a career with Belk, so I'm absolutely interested in taking advantage of any trainings and development opportunities here so that I can move into a leadership position in the future."
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Belk in the future. I am prepared to express my interest through hard work and taking on leadership duties as you feel I am ready."
25. In our retail stores we take pride in our merchandising and displays. Do you consider yourself to be a creative person, capable of making an attractive retail display?
How to Answer
Do you have examples of displays that you have created? Do you have unique ideas that you can share with Belk in regards to their current merchandising? Show the interviewer that you are interested in the creative aspect of creating an attractive retail display.
1st Answer Example
"I have a strong creative flair and enjoy creating attractive displays. I think I have enough experience in retail to understand what attracts a customer and what prompts them to purchase. The displays I have seen in your stores are fascinating, and I would love to be a part of that creative flair."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that with some training, I could very easily create some attractive displays. I have a natural flair for the creative and look forward to exercising that."
26. This position requires you to adhere to a dress code. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
At Belk, you'll be expected to adhere to a professional dress code -- that means no tennis shoes, jeans, or yoga pants. We want our customers to see that our associates take their work seriously and are invested in our merchandise. Do you feel comfortable adhering to our dress code standards?
1st Answer Example
"In my last two retail positions, I've been required to wear a store-branded uniform, so a dress code would be a nice change of pace for me! I'm definitely comfortable committing to the dress code here."
2nd Answer Example
"I think that dress codes are a great way to provide a feeling of unity in the workplace, and it makes getting ready for work that much easier! I'm happy to commit to any dressing standards necessary."
27. This role is goal-based and you will be responsible for setting and meeting daily sales goals. Are you comfortable with the different forms of selling you'll be expected to do?
How to Answer
In addition to daily sales goals for apparel, home, beauty, and other Belk departments, you will be expected to meet goals for new customer credit acquisitions, orders from the store, customer date capture, and new client acquisitions. Talk to the interviewer about your experience with these types of sales goals. Do you feel confident that you can consistently meet and exceed your goals?
1st Answer Example
"I've been working in the retail industry for the past four years, so I have plenty of experience with these types of sales. I've never failed to meet a sales goal; in fact, I've exceeded the sales goals set for me by my managers in 7 out of the last 12 months, and I'm confident I can bring that same high achievement to my role at Belk as well."
2nd Answer Example
"Though I've never worked at a store where I'm responsible for selling credit cards, I'm eager to learn! I think there are a lot of great benefits to the Belk credit card, and I feel confident that I can talk to customers about these benefits in a friendly, non-aggressive way and help our store meet its daily goals."
28. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Belk to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
Loss prevention initiatives are incredibly important in the retail sector. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle a situation surrounding employee theft. Be sure to avoid sounding self-righteous in your answer. Be diplomatic and refer to company protocol in these situations.
1st Answer Example
"Honesty and integrity are two of my personal values, so I would be very upset and angry if I found out that a coworker was stealing from the store. There's only one right way to handle that situation -- I would immediately go to my manager and explain to her what I suspected or had observed. I don't think there's any excuse for that kind of behavior."
2nd Answer Example
"My reaction to employee theft would differ if I were a retail associate or a retail manager. If I were a manager and caught an employee stealing, I would terminate them immediately. If I were an associate, I would report the incident according to company protocol. I would avoid approaching the employee as I would not want to make it a personal issue."
29. At Belk, we have a very clear return policy. How would you handle a customer who was arguing with you about a potential return?
How to Answer
As a retail employee, you will come across customers who want to argue with store policy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle a situation like this with poise while keeping the customer happy, and keeping the needs of the company in mind as well.
1st Answer Example
"The return policy at Belk is so generous, I would be shocked if someone argued with it! I would first acknowledge the customer's feelings and empathize with their frustrations, and then I would explain why we're unable to accept the return, whether it's because it's outside of the 180 day window or the customer is attempting to return an ineligible item, like a mattress. I would make sure the customer understood where the store was coming from; if they were still upset, I would check with my manager to see if we could offer the customer a one-time 'peace offering,' like a small merchandise card or coupon."
2nd Answer Example
"Return policies are meant to be followed; however, there may be some exceptions allowed from time to time. I feel that having a satisfied customer is most important and sometimes refusing a return is not worth the bad word of mouth or risk of negative online review. There is a fine balance between being accommodating and being a pushover. If I were unsure of the best decision, I would ask my supervisor for clarification."
30. What do you know about Belk? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Since 1888, the Southern woman has come to rely on Belk first for her, for her family, and for every phase of her life. Our customers know exactly what to expect when they walk into one of our stores: friendly service, fair prices, and an emphasis on our local communities. That's been the Belk way since the very beginning, and we don't plan to change any time soon. Talk to the interviewer about what stands out to you about Belk and why you are interested in starting a career with us.
1st Answer Example
"I love that Belk began as a small family business and is still privately-owned -- and it's been around forever, which means you're definitely doing something right! I've been a Belk shopper for years, and I've always appreciated how involved the stores are in my community. I'm passionate about taking care of my town and supporting local organizations, so I'm excited about the chance to work for a store that values our community as much as I do."
2nd Answer Example
"My mom was a Belk shopper, and she passed down the tradition to me and my sister -- it's our go-to place. I always receive great service, and the sales associates always look like they're having a great time. I'm looking to start a career with friendly coworkers who have similar goals and interests, so I'm definitely excited about meeting the team here."
User-Submitted Answer
"I know that Belk is a private department store company that was founded by William Henry Belk and later overseen by his descendants. I want to work for Belk because I love how the company started from traditional and humble beginnings. Being a southerner from Mississippi, I feel my values and ideals on topics like family and southern hospitality align with those of Belk."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You're off to a great start! I like that you mention the values of the company and how they align with your own. This approach will help the interviewer make a connection with you. To make your answer even stronger, I suggest discussing specific ways that working with Belk will positively impact you/your career and how the company will benefit from hiring you.
31. Belk puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
At Belk, our customers always come first. A Belk sales associate provides outstanding customer service to each and every customer, displays a passion for retail and fashion, and is excited to learn more about our products. Talk to the interviewer about your own approach to customer service and how you would embody the spirit of southern hospitality for our customers.
1st Answer Example
"I'm a born and raised Southern woman, so the concept of Southern hospitality is definitely not lost on me. I know that the Belk customer expects elevated service and genuine kindness and friendliness when she walks through the doors. My own personal customer service strategy is firmly rooted in my upbringing in the South; I always greet customers with a friendly smile, ask how their day is going, and try to offer assistance right away, whether I'm telling the customer about promotions and sales or answering a question."
2nd Answer Example
"I love learning product knowledge -- it's one of my favorite things about working in retail. I enjoy doing research about products and merchandise and then being able to answer customers' questions about those items. That's a big part of my customer service strategy; I think it lets customers know that I take my work seriously, and it shows them that our products are worth investing in."
User-Submitted Answer
"I will always put the customers' needs first by asking detailed questions in order to best assist them. I know that Belk prides themselves on their customer service and southern hospitality, and I am completely devoted to their mission in order to uphold these values."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's terrific that you mention the values of Belk in your response. If you have past customer service experience or training, I recommend changing your phrasing from 'I will...' to 'I do...' This phrasing will solidify for the interviewer that you have experience meeting the needs of your customers. If this is your very first job, it's totally fine to stick with the 'I will...' phrasing. I've provided an example for you below.
"In my current position, I put my customers' needs first by asking detailed questions to best assist them. I know that Belk takes pride in its customer service and southern hospitality, and I am completely devoted to upholding these values and company mission."