31 Dis-Chem Pharmacies Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Dis-Chem Pharmacies interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Dis-Chem Pharmacies we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, our values include Professionalism, Commitment, and Genuine Effort -- all marks of strong achievers. Have you every gone out of your way to help a customer, coworker, or manager when you could have contributed only minimum effort instead? How was your help received?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"A few weeks ago, my manager was asking for volunteers to come in for a very early-morning shift to do a full store inventory before the store opened -- she was asking us to arrive at the store by 3 AM! Not many of my coworkers were thrilled about the idea, but a few of us volunteered. I asked my manager if it would be alright if I brought in some coffee and breakfast items to share with my coworkers to help make the painful early morning hours pass more happily, and she was grateful for the idea. The inventory ended up going really seamlessly, and everyone was happy to have the caffeine and pastries to pep up their morning. Those kinds of simple additions to the happiness and strength of my team are what I really enjoy contributing at work."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 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 October 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 October 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. What questions or concerns do you have about a role at Dis-Chem Pharmacies?
How to Answer
Let the interviewer know if you have any questions about the role.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm really excited about the possibility of moving to a new city at some point in the future. If I were offered a position at this store, would I be able to transfer to a store in another city at some point in the future?"
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I don't have any concerns about the job at all -- Dis-Chem seems like the exact kind of environment I've been looking for. I'm curious what your favorite thing about working for Dis-Chem is. Would you mind telling me about your experience here?"
Written by Jordan Henry
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Dis-Chem Pharmacies?
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!
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 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 to grow, and my sales skills as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
5. How do you feel about working closely with a team?
How to Answer
Team Philosophy is one of our guiding values at Dis-Chem Pharmacies, and it's important that our employees are comfortable working closely on a team with other talented individuals. Talk to the interviewer about how you feel about working closely on a team.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm definitely a team-oriented person, so I'm really glad that teamwork is so foundational to the culture at Dis-Chem. I've worked on teams in the past that have been toxic or unnecessarily competitive, and it was really hard to work through. I'm looking for a job where I can invest in my teammates and build something really strong together."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My jobs for the last few years have been extremely independent, which has been good in many ways, but I find the isolating nature of the work really difficult. I do much better when I can work on a team with people who are like-minded and share an enthusiasm for the work and the company."
Written by Jordan Henry
6. How can Dis-Chem Pharmacies 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a competitive person by nature, so I'm best motivated by working on a team of people who are always striving to do their best. I never want to be the weakest member of a team, so if everyone else is working at maximum efficiency, I'll work my hardest to exceed my own expectations and stand out on the team."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 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
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
From our great company culture to our powerful Dis-Chem Foundation, there's a lot to love about a career with Dis-Chem Pharmacies. We think it's a pretty special place to work, and we think you will, too. What kinds of companies get your attention? What do you look for in a potential employer?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"It's important to me to work for a company that's really giving back to the community, which is why I'm really enthusiastic about the possibility of starting a career with Dis-Chem. The Foundation is incredible, especially their community food garden. I love that they find such proactive ways to help South Africans instead of just throwing money at problems. They're really helping people, and I would feel really good about contributing my talents to the team here."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd 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."
Written by Jordan Henry
8. We need reliable people on our team at Dis-Chem Pharmacies. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
9. What do you know about the Dis-Chem Foundation?
How to Answer
The Dis-Chem Foundation provides care and support to improve the lives of individuals while relieving the burden on communities, families, and friends. The Dis-Chem Foundation is an important part of what we do here at Dis-Chem, so talk to the interviewer about what you learned by researching the foundation.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a bit in awe of the work that Dis-Chem does in our communities, and what really stands out to me is that they provide sanitary pads to young women in need so they don't have to miss school during their cycles. It seems like such a small thing, but it makes a huge impact in the futures of these young women and really gives them a chance at future success. I would be thrilled to work for a company that shows care for its community in such a proactive way."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've volunteered with organizations in the past who are lending aid to impoverished South African communities, so I'm familiar with the foundation's work through those experiences. I'm really impressed with the amount of good Dis-Chem does; they really are living their promise of Pharmacists Who Care."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. Personality fit is important to us at Dis-Chem Pharmacies. 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 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 October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
Written by Jordan Henry
11. How would you encourage a customer to sign up for the Dis-Chem Benefit Membership?
How to Answer
Part of your sales role with Dis-Chem Pharmacies will be to encourage our customers to enroll in our Benefit Membership, which provides a wealth of benefits, including discounts, special deals, and more. Show the interviewer that you're familiar with the Benefit Membership by telling them how you would explain the membership to a customer.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm actually a Dis-Chem Benefit member myself, so I would start out by telling the customer what convinced me to enroll: every time you swipe your Benefit card at the checkout, Dis-Chem donates a percentage of the transaction to their foundation, which goes directly to helping South Africans in serious need. That's the biggest benefit to me, and I know many of our customers would be interested in the great work that the Dis-Chem Foundation is doing in our communities."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my opinion, there's no good reason NOT to enroll in the Benefit programme! I'd talk to the customer about the instant cash discounts, exclusive offers, and automatic entries into store competitions. There are even specialized programmes for new parents, 18-25 year-olds, seniors, and customers who frequent the beauty department -- so customers can save more on the products they really enjoy and need."
Written by Jordan Henry
12. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, our managers embody our company values, which include Integrity, Commitment, Professionalism, Reliability, Team Philosophy, and Respect. Describe a great relationship you had with a manager in the past. What made this relationship so successful? Did the manager embody any of our company values in their leadership style?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The best managers I've ever had really lead by example: they're hard workers, very dedicated to the team and to the store, and always treat both customers and employees with respect and empathy. My favorite manager, who I'm still friends with to this day, was a great balance between fun, playful energy and serious professionalism -- we worked hard, and we enjoyed the work as a team because of her example."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think the best way to show respect to your employees is to get to know a bit about them. The best jobs I've had have been when I've worked on a team headed by a manager who really respected her employees. When I feel respected, I automatically do my best work; I want to make my manager proud and prove that I can show her respect by helping working hard and embodying the store values."
Written by Jordan Henry
13. Why is this job with Dis-Chem Pharmacies 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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been in retail for a few years, and I really love it. I never knew that I would want to build a career in this industry, but now I can't imagine working anywhere else! I'm at the point in my career where I'm trying to determine what sector of retail I'm really interested in, but I know that I would love to be a store manager someday. I have natural leadership and managerial skills, and I'm hoping that those skills will only grow stronger as I learn more about working at Dis-Chem and build upon my experience."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career in this position. Someday, I really hope to return to school and earn a Pharm.D so that I can become a full-time pharmacist. I hope that my experience as a sales associate at Dis-Chem will set me up for future success in my field as I learn more about serving customers in this setting."
Written by Jordan Henry
14. What draws you to a job at a pharmacy retailer?
How to Answer
Since its founding in 1978, Dis-Chem Pharmacies has prided itself on its extraordinary sales associates who support the work of the pharmacists and managers. What makes you interested in working for a retailer like Dis-Chem?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really enjoy caring for people, and I know that the target customer for a store like Dis-Chem are South Africans who are involved in caring for their own health issues or the issues of those they love. I enjoy being in an environment where I can bring some light into someone's day, especially if they're going through a hard time. I think that I'm well-suited for an environment like this, and I'm definitely excited about the possibility of caring for customers in proactive ways."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I was a caretaker for my sick grandmother, so I frequented my local Dis-Chem store regularly to fill her prescriptions and try out herbal remedies her doctor suggested. After she passed and I decided to return to the retail workforce, I knew I wanted to apply with Dis-Chem because I always had such good experiences with the helpful, knowledgeable staff here. Since I have so much experience from taking care of my grandmother, I think it would be easy for me to pick up product knowledge on the items you carry and help customers find exactly what will help them, just like sales associates helped me with my grandmother."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. Tell me about a time you had to handle conflict at work.
How to Answer
We work hard to make Dis-Chem Pharmacy stores great places to work, but we know there's no way to prevent conflict from happening from time to time. When conflict arises, it's important to embody our values of Honesty, Caring, and Respect. Have you ever had a conflict with a coworker or manager? How did you resolve the issue?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been lucky enough to never be involved personally in conflicts with a coworker, but I've done my share of mediating between feuding coworkers in the past. When I'm helping coworkers through conflict, I always try to fully understand both sides of the story and try to get to the root of the hurt between them. I think the experience of having and resolving conflict can actually be really healthy."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Many years ago, a coworker and I had an ongoing, unspoken issue between us from a situation that happened outside of work. We didn't talk about it, but I think everyone could feel the tension between us building. It finally erupted in an argument while we were at work, and our manager had to pull us aside to talk to us about our behavior. It was really embarrassing and uncomfortable, and I made a promise to myself to never let a conflict go on so long without addressing it. Now when I have an issue with a coworker or manager, I take some time to cool off, then approach them with respect and kindness and let them know how their actions affected me. That's been a great strategy for me so far."
Written by Jordan Henry
16. 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?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 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 October 4th, 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
17. This position requires a flexible schedule as we are open evenings, weekends, and most holidays. Are you able to commit to these hours?
How to Answer
Most retail positions require a wide range of hours that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and split shifts. Assure the interviewer that you can commit to a wide range of hours. If there is anything in your schedule that may hinder your availability, be sure to address this.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 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 October 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
18. How has your career experience prepared you for success in this role at Dis-Chem Pharmacies?
How to Answer
Whether you're new to the retail industry or a seasoned professional, the interviewer is interested in how you view your past career experiences. What have you learned in previous roles that you can incorporate into your work at Dis-Chem? What unique skills do you bring to the table?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've only been working in retail for about six months, and so far I'm happy that I made the transition into this industry. Before that, I was working in an IT support call center, where I learned plenty about excellent customer service and explaining complicated solutions over the phone, but I was really tired of the sedentary, isolated nature of the work. Making the transition to retail was difficult because I wasn't used to being on my feet all day or talking to customers in person, but I caught on really quickly and now I love it."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 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
19. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Dis-Chem Pharmacies?
How to Answer
Dis-Chem's vision is to be the leading retail pharmacy in South Africa, and our values are an important part of realizing that vision: Honesty, Integrity, Caring, Commitment, Relationships, Professionalism, Reliability, Striving, Trust, Emotional Connection, Genuine Effort, Team Philosophy, Respect, and Compassion. Talk to the interviewer about one or two of these values that stand out to you and describe how you would embody them in your role at Dis-Chem.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Professionalism and genuine effort are two of my foundational values, so it's very nice to see them listed on Dis-Chem's company values. I believe that the workplace is for work, and I'm an intensely focused worker. That doesn't mean I don't like to have fun at work -- if I'm on a team with the right people, even long shifts, big projects, and tedious tasks can be fun."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a very empathetic person by nature, so the values having to do with care really stand out to me: Caring, Emotional Connection, and Compassion are three of my major concerns at work and in every other area of my life. I embody these values at work in every interaction with customers as well as interactions with my coworkers. It's important to me to create bonds and connections with my teammates."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. You will be responsible for a large amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Dis-Chem Pharmacies. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, some of our values include honesty, integrity, and trust. We're looking for sales associates who we can trust with the valuable merchandise, pharmaceuticals, and cash at our store. Talk to the interviewer about how your former employers would describe your character.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my last two retail jobs, I've been given additional leadership responsibilities by my managers because they know they can trust me to treat our merchandise with respect and to set an example for my coworkers. These responsibilities often include access to the cash registers and safe when no one else is around, but it has never and would never cross my mind to steal."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd 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."
Written by Jordan Henry
21. In a retail environment, staff turnover is often high. How would you handle it if your co-worker did not show up for their shift?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
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."
Written by Jordan Henry
22. Working in a retail environment, you will sometimes come across rude customers. How would you handle a customer who is rude towards you or a co-worker?
How to Answer
The stress of illness can sometimes naturally lead to rude behavior on the part o the customer, but we expect our store associates to treat every customer with respect, patience, and kindness. Talk to the interviewer about how you respond when a customer is rude to you.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a really empathetic person, so my first reaction to a rude customer is to wonder what's going on beneath the surface -- I truly believe that most people don't start their day planning to be rude or unkind to others. I don't let rudeness phase me; usually, when a customer is rude, I respond with even more hospitality and kindness. I think it shows the customer that we care about them, and it shows any other customers who see the interaction that we really value and respect each of our customers."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Rude customers don't bother me. I know that sometimes people just have a bad day and will lash out at whomever is closest to them. If a customer is rude to me directly, I just smile and continue to offer the same great service, and I'll give them a bit more space as well so they don't feel pressured."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Dis-Chem Pharmacies.
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.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love interacting with new people every day -- that's one of the things I love most about the retail industry. I also bring a lot of intensity to my work, which is what has helped me become a top achiever in all of my former retail positions. I'm also pretty competitive, but never in a domineering, toxic way -- I just think friendly competition is one of the factors in creating a strong team."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would describe myself as passionate, outgoing, and positive. I've been in the retail industry for about three years, and I'm really passionate about it. I love helping people, so I think I'm especially well-suited for work in this store. I have a very outgoing, playful personality, which has helped me build lasting relationships with coworkers and customers in the past. And I think it's really important to bring a positive, openhearted attitude to work, especially in an industry that can be competitive and toxic."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. At Dis-Chem Pharmacies we firmly believe in grooming our employees into management roles as they show potential. Are you interested in potential leadership roles with us?
How to Answer
We do all we can to make each of our employees feel seen, appreciated, and empowered to take charge of their careers. At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, we're always looking for passionate sales associates who are ready to take on more responsibilities and be store leaders. Talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in taking on leadership responsibilities in the future.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking to begin a career in the retail industry, so I'm very prepared to take on as many responsibilities as I can as I display my hard work, dedication to the team, and attention to detail. I would love to become a store manager one day, and I'm very committed to making that dream a reality. I'm looking forward to learning about the Dis-Chem way of doing things."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Dis-Chem Pharmacies 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
25. At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, we take pride in our merchandising and keeping our stores neat and tidy. Do you consider yourself to be an organized person?
How to Answer
At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, part of our commitment to extraordinary customer service is making sure the merchandise is properly placed and our aisles are spotless, neat, and orderly. Your responsibilities will include maintaining our merchandising standards throughout the store, which requires an eye for detail. Would you call yourself organized and meticulous?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a bit of a perfectionist, and I actually love to clean and organize. At my last job, my manager told me that she was grateful that I consistently volunteer to perform cleaning duties around the store that my coworkers aren't keen on, like cleaning the toilets or taking out the trash at the end of the night. I enjoy cleaning, and I know it makes a huge impact on our customers when the store is clean and tidy."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have a bit of a habit of organizing merchandise when I'm out running errands or grocery shopping -- I can't stand shopping in a disorganized shop! Needless to say, I have a meticulous eye and feel confident that I can meet your standards of organization."
Written by Jordan Henry
26. This position requires you to wear a uniform to work. Have you worn a uniform in the workplace before? How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
In your role at Dis-Chem Pharmacies, you will be required to wear a free store-provided uniform regardless of what department you are assigned. Are you comfortable committing to a uniform policy?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've always found it rather freeing to wear a uniform to work -- they say the most successful people wear the same thing every day, after all. I'm more than happy to commit to wearing the company uniform. Do you mind showing me what the uniforms look like?"
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd 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 Dis-Chem Pharmacies and see that it adds a strong level of professionalism."
Written by Jordan Henry
27. What department of the store would you most enjoy working in?
How to Answer
From beauty to fitness to household products, Dis-Chem Pharmacies carry the widest range of products that our customers need. In what department do you think you would be most useful?
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been doing some research on homeopathic and herbal remedies, so I already have a fair amount of knowledge to share with customers were I to work in that department. I'm always curious to learn new things, so I'd be excited to be assigned to any area of the store -- if I have an opportunity to learn new things, I'll always be engaged."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm really keen on trying out sales in the beauty department -- I love trying new makeup techniques and talking to others about their unique tips, so I think it would be fun to engage with customers in that setting. Of course, I'm happy to work in any department -- Dis-Chem sounds like a wonderful workplace, so I know I'd thrive wherever I'd be most useful."
Written by Jordan Henry
28. What kinds of events cause you stress on the job? How do you respond to stress?
How to Answer
At Dis-Chem Pharmacies, we've worked hard to create an extraordinary company culture for our team members, but there are certain unavoidable realities inherent in the retail industry: it's fast-paced, competitive, and ever-changing, and there are bound to be times of stress. Talk to the interviewer about stressors you've encountered in the workplace and how you respond to times of stress.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In the past, I've become rather stressed when faced with a very large project with a tight timeline. A couple of years ago, I was tasked with reorganizing our entire stock room, and we needed it finished by the time our district manager came to the store. It was a huge undertaking, and I was initially very panicked about completing the work on time, but I realized that if I kept a level head and broke the project into smaller tasks, I could find the most efficient way to complete the project. I was able to complete the project in the required time frame, and our district manager was very pleased with the reorganized stock room."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I feel stressed by stationary, inactive work -- that's why I transitioned to the retail industry in the first place. I've been working in retail for about three years now, and my stress levels have honestly decreased significantly. I do occasionally feel stressed during times of extreme customer traffic, like during the holiday season, but even that stress can be fun if I'm working on a team with coworkers who are committed to having a good time while we work hard."
Written by Jordan Henry
29. At Dis-Chem Pharmacies 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
Our return policy is important at Dis-Chem -- our retail shops stock many items that cannot be returned for health and hygiene reasons, such as earrings, underwear, socks, shaving blades, surgical items, and baby food. Accepting returns and refunds is at the discretion of the store manager. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond to a customer who was upset about being denied a refund.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 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 October 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
30. What do you know about Dis-Chem Pharmacies? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Since 1978, Dis-Chem Pharmacies has been South Africa's first choice in pharmacies, and it's no wonder: with our linked dispensaries, family clinics, comprehensive self-medication centres, and so much more, our customers can always find exactly what they're looking for. Talk to the interviewer about what makes you interested in working for Dis-Chem.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really respond to the Dis-Chem promise: 'Pharmacists Who Care.' I think that simple promise speaks volumes about the integrity and values of the company. It's important to me to work for a company that has a strong sense of purpose and mission, and it's easy to see how much Dis-Chem contributes to their communities every day. This is the exact kind of company I'm hoping to work for."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I want to work for Dis-Chem Pharmacies because I shop here all of the time. I love your product, and your company culture seems great too."
Written by Jordan Henry
31. Dis-Chem Pharmacies puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Customer service is our highest priority at Dis-Chem Pharmacies -- it's one of the ways we're working toward our mission of becoming South Africa's favorite retail pharmacy. Our promise is simple: we are Pharmacists Who Care. Talk to the interviewer about your personal customer service strategy and how you would embody our promise to customers.
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I greet every customer I see with a friendly welcome and try to make a connection from the start: by offering assistance, making sure they know I'm available if they have questions, or asking how their day is going. Small interactions build up a customer's trust and comfort with an associate so they're more likely to ask for help if they need it."
Written by Jordan Henry on October 4th, 2018
2nd 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. For that reason, I am sure to take my time with every customer, giving customized recommendations. I want every one of my customers to be thrilled with their purchases and the service they received."
Written by Jordan Henry