32 Coles Supermarkets Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Coles Supermarkets 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. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
The managers at Coles Supermarkets will be focused on nurturing a positive work environment and strong team, so they'll be sure to offer feedback on your work as well as recognition of your accomplishments. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
2. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
At Coles Supermarkets, promptness is important -- your team members are relying on you to be on time and ready to start work. It's always better to be a few minutes early for a shift. Make sure that your interviewer knows that you always plan for traffic, bad weather, and any other situation that could make you late for your shift. Your interviewer wants to know that you are proactive and that you can handle the stress of unexpected situations that affect arriving to work on time.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 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 July 12th, 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 unforeseen circumstances can arise from time to time. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others in mind."
Written by Jordan Henry
3. Do you have reliable transportation?
How to Answer
The management team at Coles Supermarkets needs to know that you will be able to make it to work consistently and on time. Let the interviewer know about your transportation plans, whether that includes driving, walking, taking public transit, or riding your bike.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
Answer Example
"I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to the store every day."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Coles Supermarkets?
How to Answer
Employees at Coles Supermarkets have the opportunity to learn a wide variety of skills. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career with this position. I love helping people and am excited about the chance to learn more about customer service. I'm also an artist and love building things, so I'm also hoping that I get a chance to learn more about creating store displays."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 grow and my sales skills as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
5. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating, and you may have opportunities to take advantage of such incentives as an associate at Coles Supermarkets. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I think performance incentives are a great idea -- they keep me motivated to do a great job, and I like knowing that I'm part of ensuring that our team is on top of our KPI's. I'm extremely motivated by being rewarded for my successes."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've never worked in a position that offers performance incentives, but that's never stopped me from staying motivated. However, small perks are always nice to have!"
Written by Jordan Henry
6. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Do some research to determine what to expect from a position at Coles Supermarkets, and use your current earnings to talk about your expectations. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I currently make $15 per hour and generally work between 25 and 35 hours per week. I'm hoping to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I currently make minimum wage, and I'm happy to begin a position at Coles in that same range. I'm hopeful that my hard work and dedication to the team will earn me a promotion or pay increase after some time. Does Coles have any merit-based bonuses or pay-scale increases?"
Written by Jordan Henry
7. How can Coles Supermarkets motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
The management team at Coles Supermarkets wants to know how best to motivate every member of their team. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you find motivation on the job.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leader board -- I like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
8. 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 a job at Coles Supermarkets is a good fit for you. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one who brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations that encourage learning and promote their employees based on performance."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal employer is reliable, has a good reputation, and treats me like a unique individual versus just a number."
Written by Jordan Henry
9. We need reliable people on our team at Coles Supermarkets. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
Being a Coles Supermarket team-member means being reliable and consistent. Make sure the interviewer knows that you respect your coworkers and managers enough to always show up for your assigned shifts. You can be honest about a time you had to miss a shift; be sure to mention that you followed all of the protocols for calling off of work.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I know that my coworkers and managers rely on every team-member to show up for their shifts on time and prepared to work. I've never skipped work without a good reason, and I always make sure to call in with plenty of advance notice so that my managers and coworkers are prepared to cover the shift. I've never had an unexcused absence from work."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Luckily, I've only ever had to call into work twice -- I had a terrible case of the flu last year and couldn't make it into work for two shifts in one week. As soon as I got home from the doctor, I followed store protocol by emailing my coworkers and asking if anyone could cover my shift. I was able to get one shift covered, but no one was available to cover the other. I immediately got in touch with my manager and let her know the situation. I made sure to get a doctor's note that I brought in with me during my next shift."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
An interview at Coles Supermarkets is not only about seeing if you are right for Coles -- it's also about making sure a job at Coles is right for you. Describe your experience in different work environments. 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? Make sure you're familiar with the environment at Coles Supermarkets.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the energy is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
11. Personality fit is important to us at Coles Supermarkets. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
When you work at Coles Supermarkets, you are one part of a larger team. Your personality will play a part in whether the interviewer believes you would be a good fit for the team. Talk to the interviewer about your personality -- such as introverted, energetic, or confident -- as opposed to your character -- such as honest, hard-working, or reliable.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am a confident communicator, and I'm very friendly! My last boss, Trish, always described me as a go-getter; I enjoy challenges and pushing myself to achieve new goals."
Written by Jordan Henry
12. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
Organizations like Coles Supermarkets are fast-paced; though supervisors have the best intentions, some information may fall through the cracks and your managers may not always communicate with you in a way that you prefer. Describe your communication preferences and tell the interviewer about a time that you have handled a supervisor who communicated with you in a way that didn't match those preferences.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 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 July 12th, 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
13. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
Managers at Coles Supermarkets work hard to ensure a healthy team, which starts with supporting individual employees. Show the interviewer that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you, whether it's a close working relationship with a lot of accountability or a more hands-off approach where you have autonomy. If you are unsure about your preference, try to make your answer as open as possible.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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?"
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
14. Why is this job with Coles Supermarkets right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
A position at Coles Supermarkets will provide you with plenty of benefits in the present while also allowing for opportunities to move up in the company in the future. Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how a position at Coles fits well with the changes that you want to make. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have been interested in seeking a new position for quite some time but 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, especially at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in Communications while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 Coles Supermarkets because of the flexibility you offer students, as well as the growth potential."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. What is the most competitive work situation you have experienced? How did you handle it? What was the result?
How to Answer
Retail environments like Coles Supermarkets may offer opportunities for friendly competition with your coworkers and other stores in your district and region. Tell the interviewer about your experience in competitive environments, whether this was racing others to achieve the highest sales, 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. Be sure to mention any successful outcome.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current sales position is highly commission based, so my colleagues and I are quite competitive. Even when we compete, 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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 sales contests greatly motivated mI ended up winning 7 of the 12 contests! I won an iPad, cash incentives, and concert tickets. It was great."
Written by Jordan Henry
16. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
The most successful organizations are always growing and adapting to better serve their customers, and Coles Supermarkets is no exception. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"When I began my most recent job at a family-run business, the owners operated based on trust and didn't have a loss prevention plan. 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."
Written by Jordan Henry
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
Retail jobs such as positions at Coles Supermarkets 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 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 July 12th, 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
18. At Coles Supermarkets we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
At Coles Supermarkets, customer service always comes first. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer make a purchase, and I noticed that she was struggling with her belongings. 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."
Written by Jordan Henry
19. 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
From the bakery and deli to specialty Kosher and gluten-free sections, Coles Supermarkets is all about creating great customer experiences. If you have experience in the customer-service industry, walk the interviewer through your your previous jobs and be sure to highlight your favorite and most challenging, positions. If you don't have customer-service experience, that's okay! You have likely gained the skills and experience needed to make customers happy through your other professional and personal relationships -- and you can let the interviewer know that you are excited to make the transition to customer-service and learn more about the industry.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 to. I learned a great deal during that time. This position was also my favorite because it was such a great challenge. I like to be pushed beyond my boundaries. It keeps me motivated to be better."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"While I haven't yet worked in a customer service environment, I'm really excited to get started! I love learning new things, especially when it comes to working with and serving other people. In college, I worked at a writing lab where I helped younger students correct essays and prepare for English exams. That experience taught me to listen to other people's needs, practice patience, and help frustrated students feel more at ease. I think that experience set me up for success in the retail industry."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Coles Supermarkets?
How to Answer
Being knowledgeable about the Coles Supermarkets brand and customer is incredibly important -- any information you know about the company's values will set you apart from other candidates. Spend some time exploring the Coles website and becoming familiar with their core values: 'Giving Aussie families the products they need for a happy, healthy home life, at prices they can afford.' Discuss with the hiring manager why you think you are the top choice for this role with Coles Supermarkets.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm so appreciative of Coles Supermarkets' dedication to putting Australian business first and sourcing quality local products. I would love to be a part of an organization that is encouraging Aussie farmers and sustainability."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I recently learned about the Coles Nurture Fund, and I am so impressed with their dedication to investing in Australian innovations in the food industry -- they've invested so much in small business and developers who want to create new market-leading products, technologies, and processes."
Written by Jordan Henry
21. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Coles Supermarkets. 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 like Coles Supermarkets, where employees handle 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would never steal from any store, especially my place of work! I know how important it is that my managers can trust me to treat the store, merchandise, and cash with respect. During my exit interview at my last job, my manager, Keenan, even told me that he found me extremely trustworthy and would hire me again if I ever wanted to return to the company."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent team leader, Salim, told me multiple times that he considered me a person of integrity and honesty, which is feedback I really appreciate. I always want to be a person who my coworkers and employers can trust."
Written by Jordan Henry
22. 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
Employees at Coles Supermarkets must be adaptable and flexible. Assure the interviewer that you are a team player and are happy to step in if your manager needed a shift covered at the last minute.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I know that my coworkers and managers rely on every team-member to show up for their shifts on time and prepared to work. If my manager needed me to come in at the last minute to cover someone's shift, I would be more than happy to fill in. I want my coworkers and managers to see me as a willing and excited team player."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm in a position right now where I have plenty of free time, and my schedule is very flexible. As long as I'm available, I'm always happy to cover a coworker's shift if they're unable to make it. I've also volunteered to stay late to help cover shifts that coworkers didn't show up for, and I'd almost always be able to do that at Coles as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. 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
In a service-focused job like a position at Coles Supermarkets, you will likely encounter customers who make your job less than pleasant. 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 July 12th, 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 July 12th, 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 Coles Supermarkets."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Coles Supermarkets.
How to Answer
Before your interview, take some time to find out more about what Coles Supermarkets looks for in an employee, and find ways to honestly demonstrate how your personality meets those needs. Describe how you are uniquely suited for some of the job requirements.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Sharai, my team leader at my former job, recently told me how much she appreciated my hard work and my willingness to do tasks that other team-members weren't excited about, like taking out the trash and mopping the floors at the end of the night. I have a generally sunny disposition, and I love meeting new people -- so connecting with customers would come naturally to me!"
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I always strive to be adaptable and flexible -- I know that being in a customer-service role sometimes means being interrupted in the middle of tasks or suddenly pivoting to something new. I've had managers in the past tell me that I'm a great listener. I'm also pretty witty and bring a lot of fun, positive energy to a workplace, which I think is really important, especially on busy or frustrating days!"
Written by Jordan Henry
25. At Coles Supermarkets 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
Many seasonal or entry-level employees at Coles Supermarkets go on to explore other 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Coles Supermarkets in the future. I'm confident that you will find that my hard work and attention to detail will make me well-suited for a leadership position in the future as you feel I'm ready."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have been in an unofficial leadership role for the past three years of my career, so I think a management role with Coles Supermarkets would be a great next step in my career!"
Written by Jordan Henry
26. 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
If offered a position at Coles Supermarkets, you may be asked to contribute to the design and construction of displays. Do you have examples of displays that you have created? Do you have unique ideas that you can share with Coles Supermarkets in regards to their current merchandising? Show the interviewer that you are interested in the creative aspect of creating an attractive retail display.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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, and I'm eager to learn more! The displays I have seen in your stores are fascinating, and I would love to be a part of those creative projects."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
27. 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
At Coles Supermarkets, it's important for customers to know who they can turn to if they need help finding an item or have a question about a product -- and uniforms help accomplish that goal. Talk to the interviewer about any times 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 Coles Supermarkets and see that it adds a strong level of professionalism."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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 a shift that much easier! May I see what your uniforms look like?"
Written by Jordan Henry
28. 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 for associates at Coles Supermarkets. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with the skills associated with math-related tasks.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I did very well in math during high school and am comfortable with the skills involved in accepting cash, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
29. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at Coles Supermarkets to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
Coles Supermarkets takes loss prevention and employee theft very seriously. Loss prevention initiatives are an important part of ensuring that Coles Supermarkets stays competitive in their market. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle a situation surrounding employee theft.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I once had a coworker who asked me to help him steal, and it was so uncomfortable! I would never steal something for any reason, so it was easy to say no to him. Even though it was hard to tell my manager and know that my coworker would probably get fired, I had to do the right thing. What is the process for those kinds of situations at Coles?"
Written by Jordan Henry
30. At Coles Supermarkets 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 Coles Supermarkets 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 making the customer happy and keeping the needs of the company in mind as well.
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 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 July 12th, 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
31. What do you know about Coles Supermarkets? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
It's important that you understand the mission and aesthetic of Coles Supermarkets. Spend some time on the Coles website, take a look at their different departments and offerings, and get a feel for their brand. Interviewers will be impressed with any knowledge you have about their seasonal promotions and ongoing events. What did you find in your research that made you excited to work for Coles Supermarkets?
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been a Coles Supermarkets customer for years and have always appreciated their dedication to giving Aussie families the products they need for a happy, healthy life at prices they can afford. I also love that it's been around for over 100 years!"
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I want to work for Coles Supermarkets because I shop here all the time. I love your products, and your company culture seems great too."
Written by Jordan Henry
32. Coles Supermarkets puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Like most retail environments, Coles Supermarkets has to compete with other companies in the industry -- which means that 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 July 12th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on July 12th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I ensure that my customers' needs are met by actively listening to them and also asking the right questions. If I'm working on a task and a customer has a question, I always stop and help them before going back to my task."
Written by Jordan Henry