31 Best Buy Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Best Buy we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
One of Best Buys' core values is having fun while being the best. They expect excellence from their employees and hard work. They certainly do not want gripers on their team as well. Confidently recall a story when you went above the expectations of a customer. You can share examples of when you faced a rude or angry customer and how you handled their complaints successfully. Or, you could have gone out of your way to help a customer that was disabled in any way, showing your compassionate heart.
1st Answer Example
"I currently work for a home furnishings retailer and had a customer the other day who had just purchased her first home but had no idea where to start with furnishings -- she had always relied on roommates and partners for home decor. I spent some time getting to know her personality and interests, then I went around the store and collected some items I thought she might like that would suit her home and get her started. She was really excited about a lot of the items I chose, and we had a great time."
2nd 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."
2. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
This question is about being organized and having personal responsibility. Demonstrate to the interviewer how you take proactive steps in ensuring you are not late or absent from work. This could be as simply as saying, 'Well, I have two alarm clocks in the morning, not because I am a heavy sleeper but because I never want to miss work.'
1st Answer Example
"I'm a mom, so I constantly have strategies running through my head for how I will respond to the unexpected. I operate from the perspective that you should always be prepared for something to go wrong. Since I'm constantly strategizing how I'll react to a problem, I usually have a good plan in place when the unexpected does happen."
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a very cool-headed, even-tempered person, so I don't panic when unexpected things happen on my way to work. I recently had a flat tire on my way into the store where I currently work, but I always leave for work earlier than necessary. I called my manager as soon as I could and let her know what was going on, and then I changed my tire. I only ended up being about fifteen minutes late for my shift, and it was no big deal because I had let my manager know what was going on."
3. What do you hope to learn from this job at Best Buy?
How to Answer
Best Buy wants self-motivated individuals and lifelong learners. They want the best of the best and are hoping you demonstrate that in your answer. Describe your career goals (as long as they have Best Buy's interest for the next year or two) to the interviewer and how this job will prepare you for what you want to achieve.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I hope to gain stronger skills in communication and customer service. I understand that retail can be challenging because of the multiple personalities you are faced with on a daily basis. I believe this will help my confidence to grow, and my sales skills as well."
4. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
If you're being asked this question, then chances are Best Buy offers performance incentives or the job they have in mind for you comes with performance incentives. Thus, answer by saying you are excited and this fuels your competitive nature. One detail you can mention throughout your interview is the fact that Best Buy offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, which allows their employees to buy Best Buy stock at a fifteen percent discount. Say, not only do you love performance incentives but you plan on taking advantage of the employee stock purchase plan as well.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that performance incentives are a great idea. They keep an employee motivated to do a great job and ensure that they are on top of their KPI's. The majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not require performance incentives, to do a great job; however, small perks are always nice to have!"
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Best Buy most likely has a standard pay rate for new employees and already has this calculated. Unfortunately, there probably isn't much wiggle room unless you have tremendous prior work experience. A simple answer of, 'I am happy with two dollars above minimum wage.' should suffice.
1st Answer Example
"I currently make minimum wage, so anything higher than that would be a huge improvement! I would like to get to a place where I can quit my second job and really focus my attentions and energies on doing my best work at Best Buy."
6. How can Best Buy motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer you enjoy being challenged at work and that you come not only to do a task but to learn and grow. This could be a permanent career for yourself or a springboard into something bigger down the road. You want to utilize your time wisely and pick a part-time job that prepares you for what's next in your career journey. Thus, let the interviewer know you are best motivated by being challenged and educated at work. And I don't mean educated in the sense that you plan on sitting behind a desk and learning from a teacher, it's educated in the sense that you came to gain real-world experience, specifically in sales. Which can benefit you in any career in the future.
1st Answer Example
"If I feel valued, I'll stay motivated. I want to know that my managers see me and my own unique contributions to the team. It can be anything from a simple word of appreciation to an award or public recognition -- the type of recognition itself doesn't matter as long as I'm being treated with respect and appreciated for my hard work."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very much self-driven and self-motivated. As long as I am being treated with respect and feel appreciated, you will get the best work from me."
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
The important point to remember when answering this question is that you want to sound goal oriented. Not having an ideal employer, where you have the potential to climb the ladder or springboard into a better career down the line, will come off as inept and lazy to the interviewer. Thus, describe your ideal employer as one who provides opportunities for your career. An employer where you have the potential to learn new skills and challenge yourself on a regular basis.
1st Answer Example
"I need to know that I'm a part of something bigger than myself -- like my work is contributing to an important goal. My ideal employer has a strong vision that they communicate to all of their employees. As long as I feel like I'm a part of a team that is working toward a common goal, I'll be happy."
2nd Answer Example
"Environmentally-ethical actions are extremely important to me -- I just can't work for a company that isn't doing it's part to decrease their carbon footprint and make the world a better place. I'm excited about Best Buy's dedication to renewable energy and helping its customers live sustainably -- they're making a huge impact on the world both inside and outside their organization. That's the kind of company I'm excited to work for."
8. We need reliable people on our team at Best Buy. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
Any retailer will want reliable workers. Demonstrate how you understand your responsibilities as an employee and that you make it a priority to arrive ten minutes early to every shift and, of course, never call off. If you are the type of person to call off work, then ask yourself why? Why do you want to go through life being mediocre?
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
On their company website, Best Buy fosters a competitive yet friendly and fun work environment. Thus, answer this question by saying you enjoy being competitive at work and love an environment that fosters your competitiveness, yet enjoy having fun and interacting with customers.
1st Answer Example
"I'm very excited about making the transition to retail -- I've primarily worked desk jobs throughout my career, and I feel very burnt out from the solitary, inactive work. I'm looking forward to being on my feet, interacting with lots of new people, and, most importantly, working on a team."
2nd Answer Example
"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 Best Buy. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
From my understanding of Best Buy, they want overachievers, hard workers, passionate employees, and most importantly honest-driven team members. Blend in any of those examples into your answer and demonstrate how you've actually done that at your last job.
1st Answer Example
"I think the word that best sums up my personality is Intentional. I'm intentional in my relationships, my interactions with customers, and my tasks -- I don't like to go into 'auto-pilot.' I think mistakes are made more often than not when we take our focus off of what we're doing. When I'm talking to a customer, I want to make sure I'm really present and truly listening to what they're asking for; when I'm working on a task, I want to make sure I'm doing my very best and executing everything to perfection."
2nd Answer Example
"First and foremost, I love being on teams. I've been involved in sports since I was a little kid, so I just love the dynamic of working together to accomplish a goal. Part of that is loving competition, but it goes deeper than that. I really value individuality and know that two people can truly accomplish more than one person alone."
11. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking to see if you would sit back and not seek work, or if you are proactive. If the manager does not communicate jobs for you to accomplish, it's easy and lazy to remain idle. It's also incredibly boring, but that's a side note. The key to answering this question is to tell the interviewer you would either come up with duties/tasks and present them to your manager, or you would go directly to the manager and kindly force their hand and have them lead you.
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
If we look to Best Buy's values, one of them is 'Unleashing the Power of our People'. They want to be sure their management style, aligns with what you are looking for. So if you can't take criticism and be positively encouraged, you potentially won't enjoy working at Best Buy. Thus, describe a manager who challenged you and made you a better candidate.
1st Answer Example
"My very first retail manager was an amazing leader: she truly led by example. She was an incredibly hard worker and had a ton of responsibilities, but she never seemed phased or stressed, even when the unexpected happened. Her investment in her job made me want to work harder because I wanted to be a good team member for her. That relationship has really influenced the way I work and the way I interact with my coworkers."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate managers who take the time to get to know their team members on a personal level. I know that retail is fast-paced and there's not always time to form close relationships, but I really think that makes a big difference in the way a team functions. Even simple gestures go a long way in encouraging teamwork and a great store culture."
13. Why is this job with Best Buy right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
The interviewer might ask this question to be sure you know why you applied. Meaning, if you can't answer this question with confidence, then chances are you won't last long. Something you can say, 'I applied to Best Buy because of the reputation of your company and I believe this would be a great place for me to work while completing my studies at college.' An answer like this, lets the interviewer know, 'okay, this candidate has three years remaining at university, so I'll potentially have a great worker for the next three years.' Whereas, if you flutter while answering, the interviewer has no confidence in how long you'll stay and will prefer a candidate with a better outlook.
1st Answer Example
"Right now, I'm working to earn my degree in Information Technology -- that's really where I see my career headed. I'm hoping that this sales position will increase my communication and customer service skills because those are valuable tools for workers in IT. I'm also hopeful that, after I earn my degree and prove my dependability and work ethic to the team at this store, there will be opportunities for me to pursue a job in the IT department in the Best Buy corporate offices."
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 is the most competitive work situation you have experienced? How did you handle it? What was the result?
How to Answer
Best Buy loves competition, that's why one of their values is 'Have Fun While Being the Best'. I have never worked at Best Buy, but I can imagine they offer sales and customer satisfaction competitions regularly. Thus, be prepared to describe your competitive nature and how you enjoy being the best.
1st Answer Example
"I'm competitive by nature, so I love the idea of friendly competition at work! I appreciate that Best Buy values fun and hard work together -- I don't believe that they're mutually exclusive, and I'm glad to see that Best Buy doesn't, either. I've worked in both competitive and non-competitive work environments and have done well in both -- but I definitely prefer an atmosphere where I can get a little competitive. I think it's fun!"
2nd Answer Example
"My current sales position is highly commission based, so my colleagues and I are quite competitive. Despite being competitive, 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."
15. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
This used to be a more common interview question but, let's face it, you probably won't be asked to give a critique of Best Buy at your interview. If you are asked this, it could be a trap just to see how much you complain or are negative about the store and the company. Start off your answer by saying you love the company and think they've done a great job moving into the e-commerce business and competing with Amazon, yet still being able to offer customers the in-store experience. The positivity from your initial response should outweigh anything negative you say after. I would finish the answer by saying offering more unique and in-store experiences would be where I would look to improve the stores because that is something Amazon can never do and customers love it.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"When I first started at my current job, we didn't have any kind of recycling system in place and our waste levels were through the roof. The company as a whole had a strong recycling program but without practical implementation at the store level. I spent some time after work gathering information about local recycling programs and then came up with a plan to get my coworkers involved in recycling items we used at the store. I created a points and rewards system so that we could have some friendly competition. I took the idea to my manager, who was thrilled, and we started seeing our waste levels decrease almost immediately. It was great for team bonding, too."
16. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
Part of Best Buys' value of unleashing the power of their people is to make sure that they are acknowledging and recognizing the hard work that their employees do every day for their customers. Talk to the interviewer about how you enjoy being recognized for your accomplishments at work. Share an example in the past of when a manager recognized any instance or long period of hard work you put in.
1st Answer Example
"I don't need anything big to feel recognized for my work, but when I achieve something large -- like completion of a huge project -- I think it's nice to receive something that feels celebratory, like a small gift card to a local restaurant. That way, my partner and I can enjoy a nice meal out together to celebrate my accomplishments. That's the ideal situation for 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
Best Buy is typically open everyday of the year except on Christmas. Most retail positions require a wide range of hours, including 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.
Entry Level Example
"Yes, I am willing to work any hours you have available. I understand I will be required to work holidays and that will be okay with me."
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."
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
Best Buy claims to prefer three months or more of retail experience to work at their stores. For all interviews, you should think back to a challenging time you had at your last job and be prepared to retell the story. This question will come up time and time again for the rest of your interviewing life so always put this in your repertoire. Keep your answer positive and the outcome a success.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in retail for the past eight years. My most challenging position was with Company ABC. I found it so challenging because it was a different industry than I was accustomed. I learned a great deal during that time. This position was also my favorite because it was such a great challenge. I like to be pushed beyond my boundaries. It keeps me motivated to be better."
2nd Answer Example
"My most challenging position, and also my most favorite position, would be my current role. I would not normally choose to leave; however, I need to find a position related to my newly acquired degree. In my current position, the hours are great, my co-workers are nice, and I receive fair compensation."
19. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Best Buy?
How to Answer
Best Buy's core values are: unleashing the power for their people, learn from challenges and change, showing respect, humility, and integrity. Lastly, have fun while being the best. A quick google search will explain each of those values and it'll be more important to know them in detail for upper-level positions. For this answer, knowing one should suffice for a retail-level position, but if you know more, that will definitely impress the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I really appreciate that Best Buy sees challenges and changes as opportunities for growth -- that's exactly how I operate in my life and in my career. I love new challenges because I've had my best ideas when in the midst of challenge and change. I bring this value with me wherever I go, so it would definitely be a part of my work-life at Best Buy."
2nd Answer Example
"From reading through the Best Buy website, it's really clear how much they value their employees -- and I love that their very first value is unleashing the power of their employees. I want to feel empowered when I'm at work: to do my best, to meet challenges head on, and to take ownership of my career. I would bring this value into my role by finding ways to empower my coworkers, as well as unleashing my own potential."
20. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Best Buy. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
Integrity is extremely important to Best Buy -- that's why its one of their foundational values as a company. Use your past work experience to demonstrate your integrity and trust to the interviewer. Reach back to examples of when you handled large amounts of money or assets. If this is your first job, then even small amounts of money are significant and capable of demonstrating your trustworthiness.
1st Answer Example
"I've taken some time off of work over the last few years to raise my kids, but I had a long retail career history before that where I was consistently promoted into leadership and management positions. My last retail job, about five years ago, was as a department lead, and part of that role involved being in charge of the cash registers at the end of the night when no one else was around. My managers have consistently trusted me in the past, and I know that I can earn your trust as you get to know my work, character, and integrity."
2nd Answer Example
"I think the best way for you to know that you can trust me is by talking to my references -- they're my managers from my last three retail positions. I know that they would all say that they trusted my character and integrity. During my exit interview from my last job, my manager made it a point to let me know that she would hire me back in an instant if I decided I wanted to return to the company because she knows that she can really rely on me."
21. In a retail environment, staff turnover is often high. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?
How to Answer
Working in retail, this can happen often. There is nothing you can do besides work hard no matter what. Ensure the interviewer you will not let this bother you and you'll complete your assignments, whether that is stocking the shelves by yourself or handling a particular sales floor alone, without an issue.
1st Answer Example
"I am more than willing to cover a shift for a co-worker if I am able. I don't mind accepting overtime hours and do consider myself to be a team player."
2nd Answer Example
"If a co-worker failed to show up for their shift, I would pick it up if possible. I always strive to be a team player."
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
This is an alarming stat, according to National Retail Federation, retailers experience an average of 4 rude customers each day. Personally, I think that stat is a little high but regardless, you will undoubtedly encounter a rude worker while working retail. When answering this question, tell the interviewer you will act with kindness and listen to the customer. One of Best Buy's foundational values is to show respect, humility, and integrity. That value is perhaps never so important as it is when dealing with an upset, rude, or frustrated customer.
1st Answer Example
"I don't think it's every okay to treat a customer with disrespect, even if the customer isn't being respectful toward me or my coworkers. Everyone has bad days from time to time, but I think strong integrity means treating every customer with the same kindness, respect, and service. If a customer was directly rude to me, I would continue to be friendly and hospitable but would probably give the customer a little space so they felt more comfortable."
2nd Answer Example
"I really believe in being a brand ambassador when I'm at work, so I always do my best to make sure that customers' needs are met regardless of their attitude. If a customer is rude or aggressive toward me, I treat them with kindness and hospitality. It's never okay to react in a negative way toward a customer who is upset or having a bad day. Being a brand ambassador sometimes means swallowing your pride when a customer is rude to you."
23. Tell me three qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Best Buy.
How to Answer
According to Best Buy, their core values are customer obsession, own the outcome, act with urgency, and be brave. Pick three skills that delve into one or a few of those core values. Some examples are, being friendly with customers, approachable demeanor, take ownership of your work, and passion to get work done. Any of these would be great assets for a Best Buy employee to have.
1st Answer Example
"I would describe myself as an energetic life-long learner who loves helping people. I have a very friendly, bubbly personality and enjoy being active at work, which is partially why retail is such a good fit for me. Learning new things is my favorite part of any job, and it doesn't really matter what I'm learning -- as long as I have opportunities to share my new knowledge with others, I'm happy. I also really love to be helpful; I get such a feeling of satisfaction from helping a customer find exactly what they're looking for and feeling like I made a positive impact on their day."
2nd Answer Example
"First, I really love technology -- learning about new tech is a hobby of mine, so I already have a working knowledge of a lot of the products you sell here. My brain naturally converts complicated information into something easy to understand, so I'm looking forward to having a job where I can share complicated information with customers in a way that they can really grasp and make the best decisions for their needs. I'm also very adaptable and flexible; it's easy for me to transition between tasks or multitask without feeling flustered."
24. At Best Buy 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
Best Buy believes in unleashing the power of their employees and utilizing their unique talents, life experiences, beliefs, and backgrounds to create incredible experiences for their customers. According to their website: "We don't just want to attract top talent -- we want to invest in our employees and empower them to take control of their careers, which means that we always want to provide opportunities for our most enthusiastic, talented employees to move into leadership positions." Talk to the interviewer about your interest in taking on a leadership role.
Remember, wanting a leadership role is not a requirement for employment at Best Buy. Leadership is not for everyone, and if you love tech and just want to talk tech with customers, say it.
Entry Level Example
"Yes, I would love to pursue a leadership role in the future. Currently, my plan is to get my foot in the door and learn as much as I can as an associate. If I am able to excel at my job and my managers believe the next best step for me is in a leadership role, I'd be happy to consider that idea."
1st Answer Example
"I really enjoy being in leadership positions because I have a natural gift for understanding how teams work and can easily pinpoint which person will do the best work in a particular role or accomplishing a particular task. I've been in leadership positions at work in the past and really enjoyed it; I'm definitely interested in taking on more responsibility in the future as you feel I'm ready to move forward."
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Best Buy 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. What draws you to a job in tech sales? In what area do you think you'd be most useful?
How to Answer
Best Buy has a huge selection of technology to suit customers' every need: from home appliances, entertainment, and security to cameras, video games, and wearable technology. Think of the area you are most interested in and relay that to the interviewer. Be sure to remind the interviewer, you'll be excited to work anywhere in Best Buy and would learn the technology if it's an area that was new to yourself.
Entry Level Example
"I've always had a passion for computers and laptops. I would love to work in that department. I am 100% flexible and willing to work wherever your greatest needs are. I love describing to my friends what computer has the best specs and where the best value is for your dollar, I think I would excel in sales in this area.."
1st Answer Example
"I've been playing around with computers since I was about 5 years old, taking them apart and putting them back together again. I'm an engineer at heart and love figuring out how things work, so that's how I became interested in tech. Video games are my primary hobby, so I have a lot of product knowledge to offer customers about the best gaming machines and the most exciting new game releases. I'm definitely interested in learning about some of the other departments as well, but I think I can bring the most to the computer and games sales team."
2nd Answer Example
"I've always enjoyed playing with any new technology that comes onto the market, from smart appliances to smart watches. I'm fascinated by the huge leaps technology had made in the last decade to make our lives so much easier and more exciting. I don't have a specific department I'm most interested in; I love learning new things, so I'm pretty excited to dive into product knowledge across the board. I'll be happy to work in any area of the store."
26. This position requires you to wear a uniform to work. Have you worn a uniform in the workplace before? How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
As a Best Buy sales associate, you'll be expected to adhere to their uniform policy. They'll provide you with a Best Buy-branded polo shirt, and you can wear your own khakis or dark pants with closed-toed shoes. The only acceptable answer is to agree to their uniform policy.
Entry Level Example
"No, I have never been required to wear a uniform, but I have no problem with this at all. I expected to wear a uniform when I applied to this job and look forward to being part of the Best Buy team."
1st Answer Example
"I have worn a uniform for work at restaurant XYZ and when I was a retail manager for company ABC. I have seen the uniforms worn by the retail employees at Best Buy and see that it adds a strong level of professionalism."
2nd Answer Example
"I think that uniforms 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 definitely comfortable committing to the uniforms here."
27. In this role you will be required to handle customer transactions. On a scale of 1-10 how strong are your mathematical skills?
How to Answer
Strong math skills are an asset in any retail based role. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with the math associated with handling cash transactions and performing inventory counts. For this, a 10 should be your answer. Cash counting is basic math and shouldn't be anything you're hesitant about.
Entry Level Example
"I love math and can handle basic math calculations on the fly. I would have no problem handling cash transactions if asked."
1st Answer Example
"I did very well in math during High School and am comfortable with the math skills required when it comes to accepting cash, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"My math skills are strong, and I am confident that I can meet your expectations when it comes to accepting payment from customers."
28. Best Buy employees are restricted from reselling items purchased with their employee discount. How would you react if you discovered a coworker breaking this rule?
How to Answer
One of the many perks for Best Buy employees is their generous employee discount on a wide selection of their merchandise, but employees are strictly prohibited from reselling items that they've purchased with their discount for a profit. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond if you suspected or discovered that a coworker was abusing their employee discount. I would kindly tell on the employee to a manager. It's not fair for you to obey rules and watch a co-worker cheat the system, which thus penalizes yourself in the long run (Best Buy may not offer the discount forever if employees are abusing it, etc).
Entry Level Example
"I would bring this to the attention of my manager. I don't believe that is fair for an employee to abuse company policy which is essentially theft in this case."
1st Answer Example
"I want my managers to be able to trust me, so I would immediately take the issue to my manager or supervisor as soon as I discovered a coworker behaving in this way. Abusing the employee discount basically equates to stealing from the store, and I have a huge problem with that."
2nd Answer Example
"If I only suspected that my coworker was abusing their discount, I would probably approach them about it and ask directly. If they confirmed it or denied it but I wasn't convinced that they were telling the truth, I would go directly to my manager and let her know. I don't think that kind of lack of respect and character has any place at work."
29. At Best Buy 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
The interviewer is looking to learn how you would handle stressful situations that will occur on the job. Unfortunately in Retail, a high bar has been set that any product for any length of time can be returned. I've seen this first hand while working at Lowes; a customer begged and pleaded until finally, they were able to get their 5-year-old broken dehumidifier exchanged for a new one. When answering this question, say you would stick to the company's policy. I would ask the manager before being placed on duty, if there were wiggle room in the policy or if this is a black-and-white policy. If it were black and white, then I'd absolutely obey the policy.
Entry Level Example
"I would follow the training and company policies. If the situation were to escalate and be disruptive for other guests, I would contact the manager."
1st Answer Example
"First, I would tell the customer that we have a different return policy for Best Buy Elite Members and Elite Plus Members -- if the customer frequently makes purchases through Best Buy, then it might make sense to take advantage of one of these memberships so they don't have to worry about running into this problem again. I would patiently listen to their frustrations and let them know that I understand where they're coming from. If they were still upset, I would check with my manager to see if I could offer the customer a one-time 'peace offering' of a small discount or merchandise card so that the customer leaves the store feeling like their frustrations were heard and that they had been cared for."
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 Best Buy? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Best Buy is easily America's leading technology retailer. When customers want to buy technology products, they love getting their hands on devices and seeing it in person. Explain this to the interviewer and that you are excited to share with customers the great tech that Best Buy has to offer.
Entry Level Example
"I know Best Buy is one of the largest technology retailers in the world. Your floor rooms are the most entertaining and well-designed that I have seen. I've read that you really value your employees and try to nurture their growth. I believe this would be an ideal company to start my career with."
1st Answer Example
"I've been working in retail for several years, and I really enjoy the work. I'm energized by interacting with customers and have a knack for helping them find exactly what they're looking for -- it's very fulfilling to me. But I haven't found a company culture that really aligns with what I'm looking for in a workplace, which is why I'm interested in working at Best Buy. I'd like to move into management someday, and I know the culture here is supposed to be phenomenal, that everyone works as a team, and that there's no toxic competition in the store. I'm excited about the opportunity to explore the start of a new career with Best Buy."
2nd Answer Example
"Essentially, I want to work here because you have a great reputation across the board: from taking active steps to be environmentally conscious, to the company culture, to the way customers can trust that they're getting the best deals and services here. I've made all of my large entertainment purchases at Best Buy because I know exactly what I'm going to get when I come into one of your stores: knowledgeable and friendly sales people and the lowest prices. I'm passionate about sales, so it just makes sense for me to combine that with my interest in the entertainment industry."
31. Best Buy puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Customers at Best Buy expect associates to have a vast knowledge of various technology products and most importantly, expect an honest and non-pressured conversation. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to have a conversation with non-tech people and your ability to do so without belittling the person whom your speaking with.
Entry Level Example
"I love helping people. I have volunteered at a local thrift store with my father since I was twelve years old and those experiences have taught me a lot about helping those in need. Each time I volunteered, I would assist the thrift store's customers in what they were looking for. Most often, products the customers' wanted were in the warehouse so I would gladly retrieve what I could for them. It's been a great experience and I look forward to assisting customers' in the same way at Best Buy."
1st Answer Example
"I know that Best Buy customers are often looking to make large purchases, like TVs, kitchen appliances, and computers, and that usually means they're looking for guidance on the best choice for their needs. My customer service strategy is to always have deep product knowledge so that I can easily answer customer's questions, or have information close at hand that I can share. I want each customer to feel secure and confident in the decisions they make when they're looking to make large purchases."
2nd Answer Example
"I've worked for retailers in the past that encouraged sales workers to pressure customers into buying more expensive products or adding on unnecessary items that don't really suit the customer's needs. I had a really hard time with that; it never felt ethical to me. I appreciate that Best Buy never wants its customers to feel pressured because that's exactly how I approach my customer service strategy: I want to make genuine connections with a customer and earn their trust so that I can help them find exactly what they're looking for."