31 JCPenney Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our JCPenney 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 JCPenney we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
Working at JCPenney means joining a dedicated team of associates who are encouraged to be uniquely themselves in a collaborative and inclusive environment. We're looking for employees who display a willingness to step up to a challenge. Talk to the interviewer about a time you went beyond the call of duty for your customers, coworkers, or supervisors.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"At my last job, I had an idea about how we could standardize and organize the stockroom so that things moved more efficiently. One week, I spent my evenings after work coming up with a solid plan that I thought I could implement in the course of one shift, and then I took my idea and plan to my manager. She thought the idea was a good one, so I asked if I could use one of my upcoming shifts to put my plan into action and she agreed. After that, things moved much more efficiently in the stock room, and my coworkers were really appreciative of how much easier it was to find everything they were looking for. It allowed us to spend more time focusing on what our customers needed on the sales floor."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer make a purchase, and I noticed that she was struggling with her bags. She had a stroller, a couple of kids, and a lot of bags to carry. I offered to help her out to her car, and she gratefully accepted. It felt excellent to go above the call of duty that day."
Written by Jordan Henry
2. The JCPenney culture is fueled by the Warrior Spirit. What does this spirit mean to you?
How to Answer
The Warrior Spirit is what guides and leads us in every area of our organization -- it encapsulates the values of loyalty, passion, courage, and service. What does the Warrior Spirit mean to you? In what ways do you identify with this spirit?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"It's so interesting and unique that JCPenney takes a 'warrior' mentality to their place in the retail market. I love that that spirit has been foundational to the company culture from the very beginning. I definitely identify with the spirit of loyalty. As you can see from my resume, I have a track record for staying at each company I've worked at for at least 3 years. I'm a loyal person by nature; when I feel aligned with a company's values and culture, I become an advocate for that company."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Courage is a value that is really personally relevant to me, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that included in the values of the Warrior Spirit at JCP. To me, courage at work means going above and beyond the bare minimum, taking initiative and being proactive in your work, and being accountable for both your successes and failures."
Written by Jordan Henry
3. Do you have reliable transportation?
How to Answer
Even if you're not expected to drive for the job, you will need to have some form of reliable transportation. If you take the bus or ride a bike, that works too! Merely share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year, and that was due to a snowstorm which stalled all of our employee's commute - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."
Written by Jordan Henry
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at JCPenney?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, developing our leaders is not only an investment in their career progression -- it positively delivers results, drives accountability for actions and outcomes, and galvanizes a mindset that empowers every employee to take initiative. We make learning materials available through video broadcasts, virtual training, and e-Learning courses. We're very motivated to help you learn while on the job at JCP. Have you researched any of our learning opportunities?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm really excited about all of the learning opportunities that JCPenney has available, particularly the GM Leadership Program. I love that it JCP is focused on increasing career progression opportunities for POC specifically, and it sounds like an amazing program. I'm hopeful that I'll earn a spot in one of these leadership development programs at some point in the future."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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 do you think about our online presence?
How to Answer
One of JCPenney's strategic priorities is to become a world-class Omnichannel retailer, so we're investing a lot of time, money, and energy to bettering our online position in the retail market. Talk to the interviewer about your experience on the JCP website, social media accounts, as well as your experience in JCP stores.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I can definitely see the impact of JCPenney's efforts to increase their online presence and help customers find a shopping experience that suits their needs. I particularly like using the JCPenney app -- I love that way the Departments are organized, and I especially like having access to all of the available coupons in one place."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm more of an in-store shopper -- I buy things online from time to time, but to me nothing really beats being able to see and touch products before I buy them. But I'm definitely curious to check out the other available ways to shop at JCP!"
Written by Jordan Henry
6. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $22/hour with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
Written by Jordan Henry
7. How can JCPenney motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, we are looking for associates who are self-motivated and proactively find ways to improve customer experience, but we also want to motivate you as well. Talk to the interviewer about ways that you find motivation at work. How can JCPenney bring out the best in you?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel really motivated by working for a company whose values align with my own, so I don't think I would have a hard time staying motivated at JCPenney. I love that JCP values diversity and inclusion, which are two things I hold extremely valuable."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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
There's a lot to love about working for JCPenney: from our competitive pay and benefits to our commitment to diversity and environmental stewardship, we're doing our best to make our company and our world a better place. Talk to the interviewer about what you think makes a great employer.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I need to feel like I'm a part of something bigger than myself, so I want to work for a company that has a vision I feel aligned with and actionable steps that make me feel like I'm a part of that vision. That's exactly what a job with JCPenney seems like it would be."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one who is taking active steps to reduce their carbon footprint and has environmentally ethical practices across their supply chain. I love that JCPenney does so much for the environment: from their Energy Star-certified buildings to their commitment to integrating sustainability in every aspect of their operations."
Written by Jordan Henry
9. At JCPenney, we value diversity, inclusion, and equality. What makes JCPenney stand out to you as a great place to work?
How to Answer
JCPenney has been recognized for fostering an inclusive workplace time and time again and has received awards for top supplier diversity program. We believe that diversity promotes innovation, drives competition, and shows the company's interest in and commitment to economic growth in all communities. Talk to the interviewer about what it means to you to work for a company that values diversity.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The fact that 80% of sales associates at JCPenney are women, and that 51% of sales associates are minorities, is something I definitely took into consideration as I have been applying to retail positions. I'm excited to work for a company who not only says they value diversity but who actively take steps to make their stores and their corporate offices as diverse as possible."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love what the CEO has said about diversity: that it's the foundation of the company culture and that it fosters collaboration and respect. That's the exact kind of company I want to work for: I value collaboration, respect, and diversity of opinion, so I'm very excited about the idea of working at a company that values those things, as well."
Written by Jordan Henry
10. Personality fit is important to us at JCPenney. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
JCPenney is looking for people with passion and purpose. Working with us means joining a dedicated team of associates who are encouraged to be uniquely themselves in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Briefly describe your personality to the interviewer and talk about what would make you a unique addition to the JCPenney team.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm a major extrovert -- I really come to life when I'm around a lot of people, and I especially love talking to strangers. There's something exciting about getting to know someone new, even if it's just a five minute conversation with a customer."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love a challenge -- it's one of my most defining personality traits, especially when it comes to work. I'm constantly looking for a new challenge to overcome, which is why I think retail is such a great fit for me."
Written by Jordan Henry
11. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
The culture at JCPenney is based on workers who inspire strong performance in self and others and who build positive, inclusive, and respectful relationships with their teammates. Good communication is key to putting this expectation into practice. Have you had managers in the past who didn't have strong communication skills? How did you respond to this?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Everyone communicates and absorbs information in different ways, and I think that's really the root of poor communication between a manager and her employees. I have a hard time processing instructions for a task without a hands-on approach -- I respond best to simple, to-the-point instructions and a simple tutorial of how to accomplish the task. A few years ago, I had a manager who communicated a lot of extra information when describing a new task or project, and I had a hard time parsing out what I needed to do to get started on the project. I finally just sat down with the manager and told her I was having a hard time understanding what she needed from me. We talked it out and came to an understanding of how she would communicate with me in the future, and we didn't have any trouble after that."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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
12. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, we invest time and resources into our leadership team because we know that they are the foundation for our associates to learn and grow. We believe that the key to our success is engaging our management and business leaders in their career development so that they in turn can help their supervisees learn and grow. Tell the interviewer about positive relationships you've had with managers in the past. What made these relationships special?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I had a great manager at my very first retail job several years ago, and I've been trying to recreate that relationship ever since! She stands out as a great manager because she was extremely organized and efficient, which meant that the entire team always knew exactly what was expected of them every day. She was a great communicator and was very straightforward with her expectations of each of her employees, and she had a real sixth sense about who would be best in each role. She was also extremely open, kind, and encouraging -- I really felt like she was invested in me not only as a worker but as a person."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent manager was amazing because she really encouraged teamwork. When our store had a new challenge to solve, she would ask for each associate's perspective and advice. We would have little 'think tank' sessions before the store opened in the mornings so we could discuss the previous day's challenges and success stories, as well as choosing one thing that we could do better today. Her enthusiasm for the work was infectious -- I wanted to do my best because I always knew she was doing her best, and I was excited to help the store meet our goals under her leadership."
Written by Jordan Henry
13. Why is this job with JCPenney right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, we believe that developing our leaders is not only an investment in their career progression -- it positively delivers results, drives accountability, and empowers every JCPenney employee to take initiative and drive change. We take leadership and career development very seriously, and we're looking for associates who plan to are interested in being a part of the JCPenney team for many years to come. Talk to the interviewer about your career goals and how a job at JCPenney will help you achieve those goals.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm just starting out in retail, but so far I love it. I'm hoping to make the transition to JCPenney from my current position because the culture seems great here -- my only real complaint about my current job is that the environment can be kind of competitive and combative, and that's not really my ideal atmosphere. I'm looking to work for a company that I can invest my energies and talents into, and that will invest resources and development into me."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been working in IT for the last several years, and I've been feeling pretty burnt out. I think it's time for me to tackle a new challenge, and retail feels like a good fit: I'm excited about a job that keeps me on my feet so that I can feel more active instead of sitting behind a desk all day, and I think it would be great to use my communication and interpersonal skills to the benefit of a team."
Written by Jordan Henry
14. What is the most competitive work situation you have experienced? How did you handle it? What was the result?
How to Answer
This question is designed to determine if you can function well in a competitive environment. Think back to a time when you were racing others to achieve the highest sales, were working towards a promotion, or eagerly trying to win a new contract. Show the interviewer that you rose to the challenge and that you were excited to push yourself to be the best. It is a definite plus if you have cheered on your competitors and helped them along the way. Finally, be sure to mention any successful outcome.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My current sales position is highly commission based, so my colleagues and I are quite competitive. Despite being competitive, we have a great work environment where we help each other when someone is struggling to meet their quota. We coach each other on sales techniques and share success stories. The result has been a positive work environment with healthy competition."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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 when we had contests, it greatly motivated me. I ended up winning 7 of the 12 contests! I won an iPad, cash incentives, and concert tickets. It was great."
Written by Jordan Henry
15. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
At JCPenney, we're looking for associates who 'proactively find ways to improve customer experience' and who 'take action with energy and urgency.' We're always looking for the next big idea, and we know that idea may come from any source in our company, including our retail associates. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you suggested a change at work. What was the outcome?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"A few years ago, I was working for a small family-owned business that had a strong customer base that hadn't really grown in several years. The company didn't have any kind of marketing or PR strategy, and I thought it was really keeping the company growing and achieving its yearly goals. For several evenings after work, I researched marketing plans and implementation strategies, and then I put together a presentation for the owners. They approved my marketing plan, and we implemented it over the next several months. That's one of the things I'm most proud of in my career, so I'm very glad to know that JCPenney values employee feedback and ideas as well."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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
16. Do you have any experience with volunteer work? Are you interested in volunteer work with JCPenney?
How to Answer
Volunteering is one of the most important things that JCPenney does in their communities. In 2015-2016, JCP employees logged nearly 68,000 volunteer hours at local nonprofits -- that's something we're very proud of. Talk to the interviewer about your interest in being a part of volunteer teams through JCPenney.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love that JCPenney commits time and resources to volunteering and donations to local nonprofits. I'm very passionate about giving back to my community, so I'd be thrilled to have a chance to do volunteer work under the JCP umbrella."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've been volunteering at my local YMCA for many years, and I love it! I love that JCPenney has a signature partnership with the Y to aid in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. I'd be so excited to have a chance to continue my volunteer work with the Y through JCPenney's volunteer programs."
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 August 13th, 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 August 13th, 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. Take me through your experience in retail. What was the most challenging position you have held? Which was your favorite, and why?
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your career history in retail. Be sure to highlight your favorite, and most challenging, positions. Discuss what made them so challenging and rewarding.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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. 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 August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most challenging position, and also my most favorite position, would be my current role. I would not normally choose to leave; however, I need to find a position related to my newly acquired degree. In my current position, the hours are great, my co-workers are nice, and I receive fair compensation."
Written by Jordan Henry
19. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for JCPenney?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, the Golden Rule and our values of loyalty, passion, courage, and service are the foundations of our business. Talk to the interviewer about which of these values stand out to you most and which you most identify with.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I like that JCPenney included courage as one of their foundational values. To me, being courageous at work can mean many things: taking initiative to tackle a problem you haven't encountered before; reaching out to coworkers and supervisors if you sense they could use a hand with a project; engaging with customers who may be difficult or aggressive; admitting to a mistake. Courage is a value I hold sacred in my own life, so I'm happy to know that JCPenney values it, as well."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think that being a leader means being a servant -- to me, that's what customer service is all about. My goal as a retail worker is to have a servanthood mindset when I'm interacting with customers, coworkers, and supervisors so that they know that I will do everything I can to make sure that they have the best experience at JCPenney."
Written by Jordan Henry
20. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, one of our defining values is loyalty, and we think that this value should be applied to the way our employees feel about the work, the company, their coworkers, and their customers. Talk to the interviewer about how your former employers would describe your character. Would they describe you as loyal and honest?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a reputation for being extremely loyal. When my values are aligned with another person or with an organization, I'm the first to defend them. I would never steal from any store, especially my place of business."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent employer would say that I am a person of integrity. I fully believe in honesty at all times."
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 August 13th, 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 August 13th, 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 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 August 13th, 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 August 13th, 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 JCPenney."
Written by Jordan Henry
23. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with JCPenney.
How to Answer
Working at JCPenney means joining a dedicated team of associates who are encouraged to be uniquely themselves in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Show the interviewer that you have researched what JCP is looking for in a sales associate role and describe how you are uniquely suited to meet the goals identified on their website.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really identify with the qualities that JCP is looking for: 'a smiling face, a helping hand, an eye for style, and a willingness to step up to the challenge.' That's exactly how I would describe myself. I specifically love challenges and am excited about finding regular opportunities to push myself to achieve higher goals and serve the JCPenney customer."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If I had to choose three qualities about myself, I would say: Collaborative, Efficient, and Positive. I do my best work when I'm a member of a team, so I really appreciate that JCP values collaboration in its employees. I have a strategic mind that enjoys the process of identifying the most efficient way to accomplish a task. And I'm a very glass-half-full type of person; I can always see the silver lining, and I think in most situations a positive attitude can work wonders."
Written by Jordan Henry
24. At JCPenney 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
At JCPenney, we invest a lot in our employees and always try to promote to management and leadership positions from within the company. Our Emerging Leaders Program is one of the best leadership development programs in the country. We've worked hard to develop a pipeline of sharp and diverse talent who bring unique perspectives and ideas to the table. Talk to the interviewer about your interest in leadership opportunities with us.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I'm definitely interested in moving into a management position at JCPenney at some point in the future. The Emerging Leaders Program looks incredible -- I would be so excited for the opportunity to apply for that program and to move into a leadership position with JCPenney."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within JCPenney 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. The JCPenney brand promise is to provide 'style and value for all.' What does this promise mean to you as a shopper and retail associate?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, our goal is to make great apparel and home furnishings available to a wide market. We respect our customers' money and the effort it took to earn it. We're also committed to partnering with diverse suppliers, which means that we are able to serve a very wide range of customers with different products, services, and lifestyle preferences. Talk to the interviewer about your response to the JCPenney brand promise.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I really enjoyed reading all of the information on the website about JCPenney's commitment to diversifying their suppliers, ensuring that they are working with suppliers with different ethnic identities and cultural backgrounds. Anyone can shop at JCP and see their personal style and values represented, and that's very important to me."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love fashion, but I don't love how high the prices are at some retailers. But the JCPenney way is different: it's so accessible, and the value is great considering the low prices. I know that shoppers don't want to sacrifice quality and style just to save a few bucks, so I appreciate that JCP works hard to keep their prices low."
Written by Jordan Henry
26. JCPenney has a strict dress code. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings about having a dress code at
How to Answer
JCPenney employees should put in an effort to appear professional and put-together. As one of the country's largest apparel retailers, we want to send a very specific message to our customers. That means we don't allow our employees to wear athletic shoes, shorts, or shirts with branding. Do you feel confident that you can adhere to this dress code?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate that JCPenney wants its employees to meet a high standard -- I always say that you should dress for the job you want, not the job you have. I'm more than happy and willing to adhere to the dress code here."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I think that dress codes are a great way to provide a feeling of unity in the workplace. Could you tell me more about the dress code here?"
Written by Jordan Henry
27. In this role you will be required to handle customer transactions. On a scale of 1-10 how strong are your mathematical skills?
How to Answer
Strong math skills are an asset in any retail based role. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with the math associated with handling cash transactions and performing inventory counts.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I did very well in math during High School and am comfortable with the math skills required when it comes to accepting cash, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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
28. We have a strong employee honesty program in place at JCPenney to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing product or money?
How to Answer
At JCPenney, our foundational Warrior Spirit values include loyalty and courage. It's important to us to hire retail associates who can display courage by doing the right thing if they see or suspect that a coworker is behaving inappropriately in the store, especially if they are stealing cash or merchandise. Talk to the interviewer about how you would react to a coworker who you suspected was stealing.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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 August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I value honesty so if I saw a co-worker stealing; I would tell my manager immediately. Do you have a process in place for reporting these types of situations?"
Written by Jordan Henry
29. At JCPenney we have a very clear return policy. How would you handle a customer who was arguing with you about a potential return?
How to Answer
As a retail employee, you will come across customers who want to argue with store policy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle a situation like this with poise while keeping the customer happy, and keeping the needs of the company in mind as well.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 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 August 13th, 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 JCPenney? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
The JCPenney website is full of information about their values and mission, their brand promise, and specific ways that they are contributing to environmental stewardship, responsible sourcing, and diversity. There's a lot to love about the JCP way! What stands out to you about JCPenney? What makes you most excited to join our team?
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I've been a JCPenney shopper for years but never paid much attention to how they function as a company -- which is why I was so impressed by their different resource teams. I love that they have put together teams that serve underrepresented communities: from advocating for a better understanding of disabilities, their resource team for veterans and LGBT persons and allies, and their teams that serve Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, African Americans, and women. I'd be thrilled to work for a company that dedicates so much of their time and resources to making their communities stronger together."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love that JCP cares about environment stewardship and that they're doing so much to promote ethical environmental standards across all operations and supply chain. It's incredible that they're making such a concerted effort to recycle 85% of their annual waste by 2020 -- now that's a company I'd love to work for!"
Written by Jordan Henry
31. JCPenney's values are grounded in the Golden Rule. How would you apply this value to your own customer service approach?
How to Answer
From its founding over 110 years ago, JCPenney has been guided by the Golden Rule: treat others the way you want to be treated. Talk to the interviewer about your own model for customer service and how you would fit the Golden Rule into your own approach.
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love that the Golden Rule is such an important element of the values and mission of the company -- that's such a unique and important approach. I've been in retail for awhile, and one thing I've noticed both as a customer service associate and as a shopper is that the majority of shoppers want to be treated like a unique individual and feel respected and cared for while they're shopping. That's why I'm always looking for ways I can serve my customers, from helping them with their bags to directing them to the exact right thing for all of their apparel and home needs."
Written by Jordan Henry on August 13th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I try to live by the Golden Rule in all areas of my life, including my career. It's especially helpful to me when communicating with a difficult customer who's being rude, combative, or frustrating. When this happens, I try to take a deep breath and remember the Golden Rule, and I think about how I would want to be treated if I were having a bad day."
Written by Jordan Henry