30 Calvin Klein Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Calvin Klein Inc. interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Calvin Klein we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
We value Passion at Calvin Klein -- that means we like to hire sales associates who are passionate about our brand, our products, our designs, and most importantly our customers and the people who make up our communities around the world. How do you bring a high level of passion to work? How does your passion help you meet and exceed your goals? Talk to the interviewer about a time you did more than the bare minimum for your coworkers or customers.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am definitely passionate about the retail industry -- I truly love getting to know customers and the challenge of tailoring my customer service to each individual who comes into the store. Last week, a customer came into the store where I currently work with a goal: she wanted to simplify her wardrobe and purchase several every-day staples that she could wear again and again. I had a great time getting to know her and understanding the ethical reasons behind her decision to purchase a few high-quality, earth-friendly garments. I set her up in the fitting room and then grabbed several items from our store for her to try. We spent about two hours together, I walked her through product information about each of the garments she was purchasing, and she left the store feeling very satisfied and ready to make the change she had planned."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
2. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
3. Tell me about a time that you disagreed with a supervisor.
How to Answer
Part of encouraging every Calvin Klein employee to be themselves and bring their innovative, creative ideas to work is allowing space for disagreements between managers and associates. Disagreements don't have to turn into arguments if both parties approach each other with respect and mutual understanding. Talk to the interviewer about any times you've had a disagreement with a supervisor in the past. How did you approach the situation? What was the result?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I was recently helping my manager reorganize the floor because we were set to install a huge new in-store display the following day... and we had a bit of a disagreement about how to approach the reorganization. We can both be kind of stubborn about our opinions, but we've worked together long enough that we really respect each other and our individual points of view. We relieved the tension by joking around a little, both taking a deep breath, and then hearing each other out. We ended up combining our ideas, and it worked out great!"
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"For a long time, I was really afraid of approaching any supervisor about ideas or concerns I had that went against what they were saying, but recently I was in a situation where I really had an ethical problem with a decision that was made by my manager. I thought about it for a couple of days, and then I asked her if I could have a short meeting with her. I explained to her the problems I had with her decision, and she was really nice about it -- she told me that she hadn't thought about the situation from that perspective and appreciated that I had taken the initiative to talk to her about it instead of complaining about it like some of my coworkers were doing."
Written by Jordan Henry
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Calvin Klein?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we are committed to the personal and professional growth of our associates because we believe that our people are the lifeblood of our company and the key to our future successes. Part of the way we strive to help our associates build long-term, successful careers is by offering many learning and development opportunities. Talk to the interviewer about what you hope to learn during your time with Calvin Klein.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been working in the retail industry for about three years, and I'm ready to work toward the next phase of my career. I'm interested in learning about a few different areas of the business, especially management and merchandising -- so I'm hoping that this sales position will provide me with opportunities to learn more about those areas and hopefully help me gain the skills necessary to move into one of those positions with the company in the future."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
5. What are your salary and benefits expectations?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we are committed to providing our associates with a competitive and comprehensive benefits program that offers the protection, peace of mind, and flexibility to support our associates both at work and at home. Our program is based on four important pillars: positive work environments, maintaining health and wellness, planning for the future, and some additional perks. And with starting hourly wages between $11.50 and $13.00 per hour, we're doing our best to take care of each employee. Talk to the interviewer about how you expect to be compensated at Calvin Klein.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm really impressed with the starting hourly wage here! That's roughly what I earn now after being promoted twice at my current store, so I'm especially excited about the potential to transition to a new role at the same rate. I'm hoping to work as much as possible because I really want to grow my career here."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love that Calvin Klein took the time to establish pillars of employee benefits -- that makes me feel even more confident that I will be treated like a unique individual instead of just a cog in a machine or a means to an end. The starting salary is very reasonable, and I'm hopeful that I can work my way toward a promotion at some point in the future."
Written by Jordan Henry
6. How can Calvin Klein motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
We value our employees at every level at Calvin Klein, but we especially recognize that our store associates are the lifeblood of our company. We want to motivate our sales associates to be themselves, work hard as a team, and take ownership of their store and of their careers. Talk to the interviewer about ways that you find motivation at work.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel very motivated by working on a team with like-minded people who are passionate about their work, work hard to achieve their goals, and treat every customer and coworker with respect. I love being around other people who have a thirst for knowledge and a curiosity about the way things work and how they can do their best to achieve their goals. When I'm surrounded by people who I respect and feel respected by, I feel motivated to do my best work."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we're always striving to make a positive impact on the world, and we believe that's one of the things that sets us apart in the retail industry. Accountability is one of our foundational values, and that means that we take action to do the right thing and assume responsibility for our decisions, actions, and products in the best interest of our customers -- and also the workers who produce our products. Talk to the interviewer about what you look for in a company. What stands out to you about Calvin Klein?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really love that Calvin Klein is committed to human rights, safe workplaces, inclusion, and diversity. It's clear that from the highest levels, people are the top priority. That's my ideal workplace: an organization that values its employees, customers, and workers throughout the supply chain."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I can't work for a company that isn't taking proactive steps to make the Earth safer and healthier through sustainability and recycling efforts. I'm really impressed with the various commitments that Calvin Klein has made to responsible chemical management, sustainable packaging and materials, and reducing greenhouse gasses."
Written by Jordan Henry
8. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
The retail industry is fast-paced, challenging, and active -- and it's not for everyone. Talk to the interviewer about any environments you've encountered that you don't enjoy working in.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking for a job that gets me on my feet and allows me to communicate with people all day -- that's what I'm really missing in my current work, and it's why I'm interested in making the transition to retail. I'm looking forward to work that feels engaging, where there are always new problems to solve and new people to interact with."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"By and large, I've worked in places with great environments. However, part of the reason I'm interested in working at Calvin Klein is that my current store is really toxic: my coworkers are all unhappy with the management team, and they're constantly arguing, griping, and competing with each other. It feels really negative, and I can see that it's having an impact on our customers and on our sales. I want to work somewhere that I can connect with my coworkers and help create an open, hospitable environment without the toxicity and negativity."
Written by Jordan Henry
9. Personality fit is important to us at Calvin Klein. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we embody authenticity and embrace individuality, and we work hard to create an inclusive environment where every individual is valued and empowered to be themselves at work. Talk to the interviewer about your personality. What makes you uniquely suited for a role on our team?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I think the most essential thing about my personality is my creativity. I'm artistic by nature, but my creativity extends deeper than that: I love to solve problems and 'think around corners.' I think that's a valuable kind of creativity, especially in the retail industry where every day there's a new problem to solve or challenge to overcome. I'm glad to know that Calvin Klein values innovative minds that naturally dream up solutions to problems and new ways of doing things."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been told I have a really engaging personality -- people tend to open up to me very quickly, and it's easy for me to make genuine, lasting relationships with people after only a few minutes. I do try to be warm and open when I meet new people, and it really energizes me to form new relationships with customers and coworkers. That's how I've build solid client relationships with customers at my current store, and I know I could bring that same level of emotional engagement to my work at Calvin Klein."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
11. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we work hard to build an inclusive environment where every individual is valued and empowered to be themselves. That's why one of our foundational values is Partnership: we believe in collaboration, inclusion, and empowering every associate to contribute to the goals of their team. Our managers are hard at work to make sure each store meets this goal. Talk to the interviewer about positive relationships you've had with managers in the past. What made these relationships so successful?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current manager is incredible, and she actually really embodies the value of collaboration. She's always hard at work, and her dedication makes me want to do my best work and exceed my own expectations. She has a lot of administrative responsibilities, but she's also on the floor very regularly throughout the day, talking to customers and her employees to get a feel for the energy and atmosphere in the store."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I work best with managers who take a little time to get to know their employees -- I think that's the secret to a strong team; if you know your employees' likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, you can build a stronger, more hard-working team. The best manager I ever had took time each quarter to get to know her employees on a personal level by taking each of us out for coffee during work hours. These 10-Minute Meetups, as she called them, became a really important part of our team's success, and I've always really admired the way she managed her team and the store."
Written by Jordan Henry
12. Why is this job with Calvin Klein right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
A career at Calvin Klein affords you opportunities to help us build on our long history as one of the largest apparel companies in the world. We believe that the secret of our success for so many years is our employees, and that's why we are committed to their personal and professional growth. We pride ourselves on our high retention rates and long associate tenure -- if you're looking to build a career in the retail industry, we want to meet you. What are your personal career goals? How can this role at Calvin Klein help you meet those goals?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been working in the retail industry for a little over two years, and I'm ready to take my career to the next level. It's become clear to me at my current store that I wasn't going to have an opportunity to progress, which is why I'm so excited about the possibility of beginning with Calvin Klein. I truly want to build a full career in the retail industry, and there are a lot of different areas I'm interested in. I'm hoping that this position will provide me with the opportunities to learn more about the business-side of the industry so that I can gain a better understanding of where I want my career to take me in retail."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My long-term goal is to become a personal shopper. I love getting to know customers on a personal level and understanding their interests, lifestyle, career, and wardrobe objectives. I'm very hopeful that this position with Calvin Klein will help me make the connections I need to help me meet this goal, and I would especially love to talk about any opportunities to become a personal shopper through Calvin Klein."
Written by Jordan Henry
13. What kinds of situations cause you stress on the job?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, like most of the retail industry, the environment is fast-paced, active, challenging, and ever-changing. This atmosphere can give rise to situations that could be stressful for sales associates, and the interviewer wants to know how you handle stress while you're working. Tell the interviewer about any stressful situations you've encountered at work in the past and how you dealt with them.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I try to let stressful situations energize me to problem-solve. A few weeks ago at my current store, for instance, we found out that our district manager was coming into the store early the next morning with very little notice. While the team at my current store is really good about keeping up our standards, it's still stressful to know that your high-level boss is coming into the store. Even my manager was feeling really panicked, but I approached her and asked if I could help organize the available associates to work on tasks around the store that would get us ready. She was really appreciative of my offer, and we got a lot done in a short amount of time!"
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I fully believe that challenge and change are opportunities for growth: some of my best ideas have come as a result of being in a stressful, unfamiliar situation at work. I enjoy being pushed to solve a problem or exceed my own limits."
Written by Jordan Henry
14. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we believe in a culture that promotes discovery and brave thinking -- we have always been and continue to be a cultural catalyst by embracing tension, sparking ideas, and embracing new possibilities. We're looking for employees who want to contribute to continuing our cultural revolution here, and we work hard to create an environment where every employee feels empowered to bring a fresh, new idea or perspective to their managers. Have you ever suggested a change to an organization? How was your idea received? What was the result?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"A few years ago, I worked for a small family-run business that didn't have any kind of marketing strategy or updated web presence -- they had a steady customer base but hadn't been experiencing any growth. For several nights after work, I spent time researching marketing plans and came up with a new strategy that I thought would work well for the business. I took it to the owners, and they were really pleased -- they gave me full ownership of the implementation of the marketing plan, and we ended up seeing our client base increase in just a few weeks. That's one of the things I'm most proud of in my career to date."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
Our goal at Calvin Klein is to create an inclusive environment where every individual is valued. That's why one of our foundational values is Partnership: we truly want each of our employees to feel like they are vested partners in our business, and that we in turn are invested in them. In our environment, accomplishments are regularly recognized and rewarded, so talk to the interviewer about ways that you appreciate being recognized for your accomplishments.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I don't need anything major to feel recognized for my work, but when I achieve something big -- like the completion of a major 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 accomplishment. That's the ideal situation for me."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I had a manager a few years ago who made it a point to give her employees simple, hand-written notes of appreciation when she noticed that they had performed particularly well, whether it was a great customer interaction or the completion of a project. That was the best recognition I could have hoped for -- knowing that my manager took the time to say thank you in such a personal way made a huge impact on me."
Written by Jordan Henry
16. 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
A position with Calvin Klein necessitates employees who are flexible to work rotating hours as assigned by management. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
17. Take me through your career history in retail and elsewhere. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite, and why?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, 1 year of retail experience is preferred, though not required. It's more important that we know that each of our employees have the skills and passion to meet their goals and serve our customers. Talk to the interviewer about your career and how it has prepared you for a role at Calvin Klein.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've only been in retail for about six months, but I love it so far. The transition was really difficult at first -- I wasn't a very confident communicator, and I was nervous about being too pushy when I was trying to sell things to customers. But now I love it! I enjoy the process of getting to know a customer and figure out exactly how I can help them find what they're looking for. I'm excited to stretch myself in this new role at CK -- I'm always looking for a new challenge, and I think this position would be just the thing I need to take my career to the next level."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
18. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Calvin Klein?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we believe in a culture that provokes discovery and brave thinking, and our goal is to create an inclusive environment where every individual is truly valued. That's what our core values are all about: Partnership, Accountability, Individuality, Passion, and Integrity. Which of these values stands out to you most? How would you embody these values in your role at Calvin Klein?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really respond to each of the core values at Calvin Klein, but I especially like that Partnership is at the very top of the list. I believe that the best work is always done in collaboration -- I really think that the old saying of 'two heads are better than one' is true! I really love working on teams, which is why I transitioned to retail a few years ago. I would bring this value to work by building strong relationships with my coworkers and always offering my help to complete tasks, as well as looping other coworkers in to help a customer find specific items."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Accountability is something I look for in an employer -- I want to know that the organization I'm working for behaves in an ethical way and takes their responsibilities in the world seriously. That's how I operate at work; I believe in always doing the right thing, even if it's hard, and that's a goal I bring to work with me every day."
Written by Jordan Henry
19. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Calvin Klein. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, Integrity and Accountability are two of our foundational values, and we expect each of our employees to adhere to our standards of respect, ethical behavior, and right action. We need to know that we can trust you with our valuable merchandise and large volumes of cash in the store. Talk to the interviewer about how your former employers would describe your character.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The best way for you to get to know my character is by talking to my references -- my two most recent managers. They each regularly told me how much they appreciated my hard work, but more importantly that they appreciated that they knew that they could trust me. That's why I was given additional leadership responsibilities around the store in both of those roles. I believe that they would tell you that I have strong moral fiber and always try to do the right thing, even when it's hard or inconvenient."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Honesty is one of my own personal values, so I've never had trouble respecting valuables and cash that don't belong to me. In my retail positions in the past, I've had access to the cash drawers and safe when no one else is around; it would never even cross my mind to steal."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. At Calvin Klein, our staff retention rates are high, but turnover does still happen from time to time. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, we pride ourselves on our high retention rate and long associate tenure, and we strive to help each and every associate build long-term, successful careers -- but turnover still happens from time to time. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond if your manager asked you to step in for an absent coworker at the last minute.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm excited about working at Calvin Klein, so I'm happy to accept any additional hours I can get! I truly want to build my career here, and I know CK will help me meet my goals. Any extra exposure I have to the business is one step further down the path to the career of my dreams, so I'd be happy to step in at the last minute if a coworker didn't show up for their shift."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As long as I'm available, I'm always happy to take an extra shift. I love working in the retail industry, and my schedule is very flexible, so I'm almost always available to grab an extra shift if needed at the last minute."
Written by Jordan Henry
21. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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 Calvin Klein."
Written by Jordan Henry
22. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Calvin Klein.
How to Answer
Individuality is one of our foundational values here at Calvin Klein, and we want our employees to feel free to be their truest selves at work. What are some qualities that make you stand out as an individual and as an employee? How do you bring your individuality to work?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would describe myself as a great listener, a high achiever, and a goofball with a quirky sense of humor. I've been in the retail industry for four years now, and I think all three of these qualities are really important to the way I approach customer service and accomplishing tasks. My quirky humor, especially, is something that customers tend to respond to, and it's helped me make a lot of friends in my workplaces over the years."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If I had to describe myself in three words, I would say Intuitive, Thoughtful, and Diligent. I have a sixth sense about customers' needs, and I always try to anticipate those needs so that customers are pleasantly surprised at the level of service they're receiving. It's little things like adding accessories I think they'll like to their fitting rooms, or giving a genuine compliment about an item they're wearing or their overall look. I think customers respond to genuine thoughtfulness and connection instead of just being 'sold' to."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. At Calvin Klein 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
Calvin Klein is passionate about building leaders -- that's why we offer several custom-designed leadership development programs that focus on developing strong leadership and business acumen. We are committed to the professional and personal growth of our associates, and we're always looking for leadership potential. Talk to the interviewer about your interest in progressing into a leadership role with us in the future.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been in retail for about two years now, and I feel like I'm ready to take my career to the next level. I'm definitely interested in pursuing leadership opportunities here -- I'm not looking for just another retail job; I really want to start building a career in this industry."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Calvin Klein in the future. I am prepared to express my interest through hard work and taking on leadership duties as you feel I am ready."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. 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
Our window and in-store displays at Calvin Klein are designed to match our aesthetic: they are provocative, modern, sensual, and iconic with bold, progressive ideas and a minimalistic aesthetic. Would you feel comfortable assisting the display coordinators with the construction or assembling of displays? Do you have any interest in assisting with display design?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm definitely interested in assisting with any aspect of display creation. I'm currently working on my M.F.A. in sculpture and design, so displays are definitely in my wheelhouse. I would eventually love to become a display coordinator, so I'm excited to meet the display coordinators in the store and find out more about how to achieve that goal."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd 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."
Written by Jordan Henry
25. This position requires you to adhere to a dress code. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, it's important that our employees match our modern, clean, and edgy aesthetic in their work wardrobe -- we want to inspire our customers with looks on the mannequins, racks, and on our sales associates. You'll be expected to wear CK jeans with black, white, or gray solid tops, as well as nice dress shoes or flats. Do you feel capable of adhering to this dress code policy?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Your dress code is essentially how I dress on a daily basis -- I like to keep things clean and minimal. So I'm definitely confident I can adhere to the dress code without any problem."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love the idea of such a simple, clean dress code! I think dress codes and uniforms make the workplace feel professional, and it'll make getting ready for work that much easier!"
Written by Jordan Henry
26. Part of your responsibilities in this role will be to encourage customers to sign up for our Loyalty Program. Do you feel comfortable with this kind of customer interaction?
How to Answer
Our Preferred Loyalty Program Members have access to amazing perks, and we want each of our customers to have the chance to take advantage of this program. That's why we need our customer associates at the registers to be comfortable with talking to each customer about the benefits of becoming a Loyalty Member. Talk to the interviewer about how you would talk to a customer about the Loyalty Program.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would think every customer would want to sign up for the Loyalty Program! The benefits are great. The $20 reward for every $200 spent was enough to get me to join; if a customer was still reticent about signing up, I would let them know that they'll also receive special birthday offers and invitations to members-only events."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm very comfortable talking to customers about memberships -- in my current role, one of our sales goals includes selling store credit cards, so I have a lot of experience with that kind of customer interaction. If a customer didn't seem interested in the loyalty program here, I wouldn't pressure them; instead, I would tell them about some of the benefits and then let them know that they can easily sign up online if they change their mind in the future."
Written by Jordan Henry
27. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Calvin Klein to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
At Calvin Klein, two of our founding values are Integrity and Accountability -- that means we expect our employees to work in an ethical manner and take action to do the right thing. How would you respond if you suspected that a coworker was violating these values and policies by stealing from the store or abusing their employee discount by reselling items at a personal profit?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm disgusted by stealing, especially taking advantage of your place of work. If I had an idea that my coworker were stealing, I would go straight to my manager and tell her about what I suspected or saw happening. There's no excuse for that kind of behavior."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Accountability is a personal value of mine, and it sometimes means doing the right thing even when it's hard. I've had to go to a manager in the past and tell her that I believed a coworker was stealing; it was a really hard situation because I don't want to be involved in a person losing their job, but I knew it was the right thing to do. I would do it again."
Written by Jordan Henry
28. At Calvin Klein 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
At Calvin Klein, we work hard to give each customer a great experience in our store, whether they want to make a purchase or process a return or exchange. We have clear policies in place to help the refund and exchange process as seamless as possible, but customers may be upset from time to time when they can't return an ineligible item. Talk to the interviewer about how you would work through a situation like this with a customer.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
29. What do you know about Calvin Klein? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Since it was founded in 1968, Calvin Klein has been known for its provocative, modern, sensual, and iconic styling. We seek to thrill and inspire our customers with our striking designs and often minimalistic aesthetic. What about Calvin Klein's brand stands out to you? What attracts you to working for us?
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love that Calvin Klein has been shaping the fashion industry for such a long time. I like how they describe themselves on the website as a 'cultural catalyst' -- that's exactly how I feel about this brand. What stands out to me most is the high quality of their garments and the fact that so many of their manufacturing processes are sustainable and earth-friendly. That's the kind of company I can get behind."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I really respond to the modern, iconic, minimalistic aesthetic of Calvin Klein. I've shopped here for years because I like to be bold and classic at the same time, and CK never fails to deliver that style. I've also been doing research about the brand, and I'm really impressed with their commitment to making a positive impact on the world and in the lives of their customers and employees. It seems like a really great place to work."
Written by Jordan Henry
30. Calvin Klein 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I think that great customer service is made up of many small things, which is why the Calvin Klein shopping experience is so unique. My personal strategy is to make sure that every customer feels seen and acknowledged, whether it's a simple friendly hello when they first enter the store, a genuine compliment on their apparel or look, or an offer to help them find the perfect piece."
Written by Jordan Henry on September 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Each customer is unique, and so I approach each customer in a way that I think will have the best impact with them based on my intuition. It's a simple matter of being attentive and noticing little things -- it makes a big impact when a customer feels like they are really seen as an individual."
Written by Jordan Henry