32 Bloomingdale's Interview Questions & Answers
1. 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."
2. Bloomingdale's puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Retail environments are competitive, and business can go down with one honest mistake. Discuss with the interviewer how you ensure that your customers receive the best service from you.
1st Answer Example
"I have a rule always to treat my customers how I would want treatment in a store or establishment. Customer service is vital to a company's success."
2nd Answer Example
"I ensure that my customers' needs are met by actively listening to them and also asking the right questions. Treat others as you want to be treated. It's a good rule to live by."
3. What do you know about Bloomingdale's? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Display your enthusiasm for the job by assuring the interviewer you have researched the organization and the role. What did you find in your research that made you excited to work for Bloomingdale's, Inc.?
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Bloomingdale's, Inc. a great deal and am very happy with the positive reviews I came across, online. I would love to work for a company with such a great reputation."
2nd Answer Example
"I want to work for Bloomingdale's, Inc. because I shop here all of the time. I love your product, and your company culture seems great too."
4. At Bloomingdale's 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
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"I have some dispute resolution training from my previous retail position and fully believe that flexibility needs to be offered in extreme situations."
5. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Bloomingdale's 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
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"I value honesty so if I saw a co-worker stealing; I would tell my manager immediately. Do you have a process in place for reporting these types of situations?"
6. 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.
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."
7. 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
Many retail-based organizations require their employees to wear a uniform. Talk to the interviewer about any times that you have been required to wear a uniform. What are your thoughts on this? Be sure to keep your answer positive and avoid speaking poorly of the practice surrounding uniforms.
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 Bloomingdale's, Inc. 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. May I see what your uniforms look like?"
8. 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 Bloomingdale's, Inc. 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."
9. At Bloomingdale's 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
Leadership at the retail level can open up many career options such as store management, district level leadership and even corporate opportunities. Talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in gaining a leadership role down the road.
1st Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Bloomingdale's, Inc. in the future. I am prepared to express my interest through hard work and taking on leadership duties as you feel I am ready."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been in an unofficial leadership role for the past three years of my career. I believe that a management role with Bloomingdale's, Inc. would be a great next step in my career."
10. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Bloomingdale's.
How to Answer
Before your interview, it is essential that you review the company's job description to give yourself a keen understanding of the qualities they desire in their successful candidate. Tie these desired qualities into your answer to display you are a fit for the role.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"Try to include a variety of words that the interviewer does not hear all the time. Be unique! Here are some ideas:
- Adaptable
- Considerate
- Diligent
- Intuitive
- Persistent
- Resourceful
- Sincere
- Witty"
11. Working in a retail environment, you will sometimes come across rude customers. How would you handle a customer who is aggressive towards you or a co-worker?
How to Answer
Retail and customer service based roles will often require diplomacy when it comes to working with the public. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle an aggressive customer.
1st Answer Example
"If I had a customer who was being aggressive and disrespectful, I would calmly but firmly ask them to calm down. If security needed to be called, I would do so. Everyone needs to remain respectful, and I would not hesitate to ask a customer to offer that respect, in return."
2nd Answer Example
"Most places that I have worked have procedures in place for these kinds of scenarios, and I am happy to follow the procedures put in place by Bloomingdale's, Inc.."
12. 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
Being flexible in your schedule is valuable as a retail-based employee. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift and you were asked to cover? Assure the interviewer that you are a team player.
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."
13. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Bloomingdale's. 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."
14. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Bloomingdale's?
How to Answer
It is incredibly important to research the company's core values and mission statement before you interview with them. Discuss with the hiring manager why you think you are the top choice for this role with Bloomingdale's, Inc..
1st Answer Example
"I have researched your core values online and appreciate that you put your customers first while empowering your employees at the same time. I think that I would be the best person for this job because I have a great appreciation for what Bloomingdale's, Inc. is achieving in the retail marketplace."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have researched your company, and I feel that my retail marketing education, as well as the fact that I am bilingual, makes me a solid candidate for this role."
15. 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
Walk the interviewer through your career history in retail. Be sure to highlight your favorite, and most challenging, positions. Discuss what made them so challenging and rewarding.
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."
16. At Bloomingdale's 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."
17. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like recognition in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"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."
18. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
In addition to being able to handle change, can you also recognize when change is required and be confident enough to present that to your organization? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to suggest a change in the workplace.
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
"The store where I currently work is a family run shop where they operated based on trust and didn't have a loss prevention plan. We were having some problems with theft because of it. I suggested that we install a couple of cameras inside the store to deter anyone from stealing. So far, we have seen a 56% decline in the overall loss."
19. What is the most competitive work situation you have experienced? How did you handle it? What was the result?
How to Answer
This question is designed to determine if you can function well in a competitive environment. Think back to a time when you were racing others to achieve the highest sales, were working towards a promotion, or eagerly trying to win a new contract. Show the interviewer that you rose to the challenge and that you were excited to push yourself to be the best. It is a definite plus if you have cheered on your competitors and helped them along the way. Finally, be sure to mention any successful outcome.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"Last year I worked at a high-end jewelry store where sales goals were intense, and the rewards were high. I am geared for healthy competition, so when we had contests, it greatly motivated me. I ended up winning 7 of the 12 contests! I won an iPad, cash incentives, and concert tickets. It was great."
20. Why is this job with Bloomingdale's right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical 'I am looking for growth' answer that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"This job will fit perfectly surrounding my school schedule. I hope once I complete my education that I can be given full-time hours for the summer. I am excited to work for Bloomingdale's, Inc. because of the flexibility you offer students, as well as the growth potential."
21. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability, while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.
1st 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?"
2nd Answer Example
"In the past, I have worked best with managers who are strong mentors but also offer autonomy when it comes to the tasks they know I am well versed in."
22. 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."
23. Personality fit is important to us at Bloomingdale's. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your traits vs. your integrity. These examples could include buzzwords such as introverted, energetic, and confident.
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
24. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
Are you pretty flexible in your ability to work in most environments? Have you experienced a position where the atmosphere wasn't conducive to your productivity? Be sure to know the type of environment offered in this position before the interview.
1st 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."
2nd Answer Example
"Rather than focusing on the negative, try spinning your answer into a positive focus: "I do best in a supportive environment where there is room to grow, the ability to ask questions, and healthy co-worker relationships."
25. We need reliable people on our team at Bloomingdale's. 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."
26. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Tell the interviewer about your ideal employer. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal employer is reliable, has a good reputation, and treats me like a unique individual versus just a number."
27. How can Bloomingdale's 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 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."
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."
28. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
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."
29. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
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!"
30. What do you hope to learn from this job at Bloomingdale's?
How to Answer
Are you looking to learn the technical skills that will help you learn how to troubleshoot and repair computer issues so that you can one day work in the IT industry? Maybe you are looking to get some experience to help you decide if you want to become a social worker or work in the medical field. Share what you are looking to get out of the experience. Review the job description and information about related careers to help you get a better idea of what you have to look forward to. Discuss how this position will help you in your career!
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."
31. 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."
32. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
Proper planning will get you far, but sometimes life happens, and you'll need a plan B. Think about some of the variables in your life that could affect your ability to arrive on time for work. Sick children, traffic, car breakdowns... the list goes on. It may not be possible for everything to work out so smoothly, getting your shift covered or still making it to work on time. Your interviewer is looking to see that you are proactive and that you can handle the stress of unexpected situations that can arise.
1st Answer Example
"I stay calm and composed when issues arise. My dad got rear ended one time when driving me to school. I texted my friend to see if she could tell my teacher what happened. I explained the situation to my teacher when I got to class. If this happened on my way to work, I would call ahead of time to ensure someone could cover my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I hope never to be late! When I started working at a restaurant at sixteen years old, we were taught the adage of '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 there are unforeseen circumstances that can arise. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others top of mind."