29 Kroger Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Kroger we like to hire strong achievers. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
How to Answer
With nearly half a million employees at Kroger, how will you be one to stand out? Display to the interviewer that you can do more than the bare minimum. Show that you appropriately react when you see that your employer has a need that goes beyond your usual day-to-day expectations.
1st Answer Example
"Last week I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff were complaining that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her work so that she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help but also benefited me by way of organization."
2nd Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer make a purchase, and I noticed that she was struggling with her bags. She had a stroller, a couple of kids, and a lot of bags to carry. I offered to help her out to her car, and she gratefully accepted. It felt excellent to go above the call of duty that day. After reading your values statement, I believe these are the qualities that Kroger looks for in their employees as well."
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.
1st Answer Example
"I stay calm and composed when issues arise. My dad got rear ended one time when driving me to school. I texted my friend to see if she could tell my teacher what happened. I explained the situation to my teacher when I got to class. If this happened on my way to work, I would call ahead of time to ensure someone could cover my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I hope never to be late! When I started working at a restaurant at sixteen years old, we were taught the adage of 'if you're on time, you're late,' so I've worked to implement that into my life. I always try to arrive 15 minutes early, but there are unforeseen circumstances that can arise. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others top of mind."
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.
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."
2nd Answer Example
"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year, and that was due to a snowstorm which stalled all of our employee's commute - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."
4. What do you hope to learn from this job at Kroger?
How to Answer
Kroger aims to hire those who will grow with their organization. Perhaps you would like to gain communication skills and work your way into the customer service department. Maybe you are looking to get some warehouse experience to help you decide if you want to become a warehouse manager. Share what you are looking to get out of the experience. Review the job description and information about related careers to help you get a better idea of what you have to look forward to. Discuss how this position will help you in your career!
1st Answer Example
"I am looking to lay the foundation for the rest of my career with this position. I looked at a lot of job postings and had interviewed some very carefully selected places, but you are by far my front-runner. I want to learn not only the fundamentals of customer service and merchandising but also become comfortable with the marketing side of the business. I appreciate that you want me to start with the basics of the customer service associate role before moving into a keyholder position."
2nd Answer Example
"I hope to gain stronger skills in communication and customer service. I understand that retail can be challenging because of the diverse personalities we face on a daily basis. I believe this will help my confidence to grow, and my human resources knowledge as well."
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus employee perks like discounts, bonus', and a 401k. Last year my total earnings were $49,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $11/hour with health care benefits. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
6. How can Kroger motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Kroger values employees through a variety of perks, programs, and opportunities. Some of these include:
- Competitive wages
- Healthcare benefits
- Retirement benefits
- Employee discounts
- Scholarships
- Tuition reimbursement
- Fitness allowances
- Discounts at stores in your community
- Merchandise discounts
Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you find motivation on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts matter. In my current position, we have a leaderboard, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very much self-driven and self-motivated. As long as I am being treated with respect and feel appreciated, you will get the best work from me."
7. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Tell the interviewer about your ideal employer. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations. Kroger is a big fish in the sea of employers, and it's essential that you understand all the great things they have to offer before you head into your interview.
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance. I have heard many times that Kroger looks to promote from within and I found it exceptionally interesting that your CEO has worked for the company for 40 years, starting as a clerk. This type of story makes me believe that Kroger will nurture me in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal employer is reliable, has a good reputation, and treats me like a unique individual versus just a number. I would like to work for a large organization, such as Kroger, who will be able to take my career to new heights based on my excellent performance."
8. We need reliable people on our team at Kroger. 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 and show them why you will be the reliable addition they need.
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2, and a note from my doctor accompanied those. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very committed to my employer and am only absent in events of sickness or the odd family emergency. I do my best always to be available and present when expected."
9. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are flexible and able to work well in many environments. Think about a time when you may have experienced a position where the atmosphere wasn't conducive to your productivity. How does Kroger fit the workplace environment that you appreciate? Be sure to end your answer on a positive note, with a compliment on the Kroger culture.
1st Answer Example
"I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic. One of the reasons why I applied here is because of your very high ratings online and also the fact that you recently won an award for being a Top 50 employer in the diversity category."
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. I know that Kroger supports this type of environment which I part of the reason I applied to work here."
10. Personality fit is important to us at Kroger. 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. Remember - Kroger actively seeks out people who are naturally honest, driven by integrity, and who embrace diversity.
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. I also embrace everyone around me, no matter how different they may be from me. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
11. How do you handle a situation where your supervisor does not properly communicate information to you?
How to Answer
You cannot force others to communicate with you in a way that you would always prefer. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have handled a supervisor who does not interact with you in a way that you like. Avoid sounding negative and focus on what you did to turn the situation into a positive.
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. Could you share with me the communication style of the managers in this location?"
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."
12. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
Kroger's values include 'truthfulness with each other' and treating all with dignity while valuing the perspectives and opinions of others. Their managers experience intense training in these values. The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability, while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best with a manager who allows me autonomy while still investing time in me through mentorship and training. I like that Kroger trains their management team to be accepting of diversity, and to encourage truthfulness with each other and every customer."
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 I know well. Kroger also has a reputation for training all management level employees very well, with firmly established values, which I appreciate."
13. Why is this job with Kroger 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'response that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on Kroger.
1st Answer Example
"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my new education in Communication while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills. The fact that Kroger is such a huge organization is appealing to me. I want to carve a career here for the long term."
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 Kroger because of the flexibility you offer students, as well as the growth potential."
14. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
In addition to being able to handle change, can you also recognize when change is required and be confident enough to present that to your organization? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to suggest a change in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Last year when I was managing our weekend shift, I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. I created a presentation and gave it to my manager who took it to upper management. Headquarters implemented the changes, and I was very proud of the suggestion that I made."
2nd Answer Example
"The store where I currently work is a family run shop where they operated based on trust and didn't have a loss prevention plan. We were having some problems with theft because of it. I suggested that we install a couple of cameras inside the store to deter anyone from stealing. So far, we have seen a 56% decline in the overall loss."
15. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
In April 2018, Kroger announced they are investing $500 million in wages, training, and employee development over the next three years. They are not afraid to be generous to those that show potential and promise! Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. This credit could include gifts, discounts, financial perks, health benefits, tuition benefits, kind words, and even title promotions.
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is through words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that you notice my hard work."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate being given opportunities to grow. Your tuition reimbursement program is very encouraging to me since I want to join a company where I can enhance my knowledge and learn new job functions."
16. This position requires a flexible schedule as we are open evenings, weekends, and most holidays. Are you able to commit to these hours?
How to Answer
Kroger is committed to their employees, and they ask for a substantial commitment in turn. If you are working in one of their retail-based stores, you may be required to be available for a wide range of hours that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and split shifts. Assure the interviewer that you can commit to a wide range of hours. If there is anything in your schedule that may hinder your availability, be sure to address this.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to offer Kroger a flexible schedule, and to work overtime as needed. I do take an evening college course on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so I would not be available those days, after 5 PM."
2nd Answer Example
"Supermarkets are most often the busiest outside of regular business hours. For that reason, I understand that this role will include working evenings, weekends, and holidays. I am available to work anytime and am happy to work overtime for Kroger as well."
17. Have you researched our company values? What makes you the best candidate for Kroger?
How to Answer
It is essential to research the company's core values and mission statement before you interview with them. Discuss with the hiring manager why you think you are the top choice for this role with Kroger.
Kroger's corporate values include six significant areas of focus:
1. Honesty
2. Integrity
3. Respect
4. Diversity
5. Safety
6. Inclusion
1st Answer Example
"I have researched your core values online and appreciate that you put your customers first while empowering your employees at the same time. I think that I would be the best person for this job because I have a great appreciation for what Kroger is achieving in the retail marketplace. Diversity and inclusion are hot topics, as are safety and respect."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have researched your company, and know that you have six core values including diversity and inclusion, safety, respect, honesty, and integrity. I feel that my values align nicely with these, making me a solid candidate for this role."
18. You will be responsible for a significant amount of cash and valuable merchandise at Kroger. What would your most recent employer say about your character and honesty?
How to Answer
Kroger isn't just a supermarket! The organization also has jewelry stores and department stores. With merchandise of all values, the interviewer needs assurance that you can handle the responsibility of managing valuable commodity. Due to the transaction volume at most Kroger locations, you may also be responsible for significant amounts of cash. Honesty is of utmost importance. Assure the interviewer that you can be trusted. Draw on the opinion of others to solidify your answer.
1st Answer Example
"My most recent employer has provided me with a very positive written reference which touches on the fact that I am reliable and honest. Other employes would agree that I have strong character and always choose honesty first."
2nd Answer Example
"My most recent employer would say that I am a person of integrity. I strive to be honest in all situations. Rest assured, I will not disappoint you!"
19. 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
Kroger rewards employees who show loyalty, honesty, and respect. If you commit to your team, you are sure to be recognized or even promoted. Being flexible in your schedule is valuable as a retail-based employee, especially when a variety of shifts are available. 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, willing to jump in whenever you are able.
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 as well. I know that Kroger looks to people who are willing to work as part of a cohesive team, and do consider myself to be a team player."
2nd Answer Example
"If a co-worker failed to show up for their shift, I would pick it up if possible. I always strive to be a team player. I assure you that I will fit well with the Kroger environment of collaboration and respect."
20. 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
Kroger dedicates themselves to providing the ultimate customer service experience to their customers. As you know, customer service roles will often require diplomacy. You have to put your best foot forward, on behalf of Kroger, no matter the situation. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle an aggressive customer.
1st Answer Example
"If I had a customer who was being aggressive and disrespectful, I would keep a calm voice and ask them what I could do to remedy the situation. If the situation escalated to the point where I had to call security, I would do so. I will always respect people and would certainly apply my customer resolution training wherever possible."
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 Kroger. I am a very respectful person, so I do not like lingering confrontation. I would try to smooth any uncomfortable situation over as swiftly as possible."
21. Tell me 3 qualities you possess that make you a strong fit for this position with Kroger.
How to Answer
You will notice that many of the Kroger job postings ask for applicants to 'demonstrate the company's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety.' Before your interview, it is essential that you review their job description thoroughly, to give yourself a keen understanding of the qualities they desire in their successful candidate. Tie these desired qualities into your answer to display you are a fit for the role.
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of qualities that transfer well into this deli management position. The top ones would include my willingness to show respect to everyone, my ability to have a conversation with people from all walks of life, and my solid level of honesty."
2nd Answer Example
"Try to include a variety of words that the interviewer does not hear all the time. Be unique! Here are some ideas:
- Adaptable
- Considerate
- Diligent
- Intuitive
- Persistent
- Resourceful
- Sincere
- Witty"
22. At Kroger, 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
One of Kroger's slogans is: 'Come for a job, stay for a career!' Did you know that Kroger's CEO started over 40 years ago as a courtesy clerk? Kroger has a steadfast commitment to creating an opportunity for their associates who show dedication and promise. Leadership opportunities include store management, district-level leadership, and opportunities in their corporate offices. Talk to the interviewer about any interest you have in gaining a leadership role down the road.
1st Answer Example
"I would be very excited about obtaining a role in leadership within Kroger in the future. I read the story about your CEO beginning as a clerk over 40 years ago and found it to be very inspiring. I am prepared to express my interest through hard work and taking on leadership duties as you feel I am ready."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been in an unofficial leadership role for the past three years of my career. I believe that a management role with Kroger would be a great next step in my career. I am thrilled to hear that you put a lot of effort into the career trajectory of your top performers. Your slogan, 'Come for a job, stay for a career,' is one that certainly caught my eye."
23. 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 you have photo examples of displays that you have created, this would be ideal. Do you have unique ideas that you can share with Kroger in regards to their current merchandising? Show the interviewer that you are interested in the creative aspect of creating an attractive retail display.
1st Answer Example
"I have a strong creative flair and enjoy creating attractive displays. I think I have enough experience in retail to understand what attracts a customer and what prompts them to purchase. The displays I have seen in your stores are fascinating, and I would love to be a part of that creative flair."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that with some training, I could very easily create visually attractive displays. I have a natural flair for the creative. I used to work at a clothing store where we would dress the mannequins and organize the standing glass displays. I am sure that Kroger has a team in place for this, but I would be interested in learning a bit about their process."
24. 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
Most Kroger stores will provide you with their branded shirts, a staple for their employee uniform. They may also require the purchase of dress pants or khakis. This practice is very standard in retail and supermarket environments. Talk to the interviewer about any times that you have been required to wear a uniform, in your previous roles. Keep your answer positive and avoid speaking poorly of the practice surrounding uniforms.
1st Answer Example
"I have worn a uniform for work at Restaurant XYZ and when I was a retail manager for Company ABC. I have seen the uniforms worn by the retail employees at Kroger and see that it adds a strong level of professionalism. I am willing to purchase any uniform required."
2nd Answer Example
"I think that uniforms are a great way to provide a feeling of unity in the workplace. I have seen your employees wearing the standard Kroger golf style shirts and khakis. Is this the uniform I would be wearing?"
25. 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
It may not be calculus and algebra, but strong math skills are an asset when you are working for Kroger. If this role is cash-based, you will often need to give complicated returns, price adjustments, and accurate inventory counts. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with the math requirements associated with handling financial transactions and performing inventory counts.
1st Answer Example
"I did very well in math during my high school career and am comfortable with the math skills required when it comes to accepting payment, balancing a cash float, and performing inventory-related tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"My math skills are strong, and I am confident that I can meet your expectations when it comes to accepting payment from customers. I have three years' experience working as a cashier for our local grocery store. My till was always balanced, and I only once had a small discrepancy."
26. We have an active employee honesty program in place at Kroger to prevent loss. What would you do if you discovered that a co-worker was stealing a product or money?
How to Answer
Kroger has nearly 3,000 supermarkets and department stores, and over 300 jewelry stores to track. With almost half a million employees, Kroger is highly aware that not everyone will be honest, or a team player. Airtight loss prevention initiatives are essential at Kroger. Discuss with the interviewer how you would handle a situation surrounding employee theft. Be sure to avoid sounding self-righteous in your answer. Be diplomatic and refer to company protocol in these situations.
1st Answer Example
"My reaction to employee theft would differ if I were a retail associate or a retail manager. If I were a manager and caught an employee stealing, I would terminate them immediately. If I were an associate, I would report the incident according to the Kroger company protocol. I would avoid approaching the employee as I would not want to make it a personal issue. I am aware that you employ almost 500,000 people. This level of responsibility must be an incredible challenge when it comes to loss prevention efforts. I assure you I will do my part at all times."
2nd Answer Example
"Just like Kroger, I value honesty. If I saw a co-worker stealing; I would tell my manager immediately. With almost half a million employees, I am sure that you have a solid process in place for reporting unethical employee behavior."
27. At Kroger 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
Kroger has one of the best and most flexible return policies in the market. Kroger will almost always accept returns of products, even if it's because you don't like the brand. Often, you don't need a receipt! They offer refunds, exchanges, or a Kroger gift card. As a Kroger employee, you may still come across customers who want to argue with store policy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle a situation like this with poise while keeping the customer happy, and keeping the needs of the company in mind as well.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that Krogers' return policy is one of the most generous in the retail market. If there were an exception, and I could not take a customers' return, I would talk to my supervisor about offering an alternate solution. There is a delicate balance between being accommodating and being a pushover. If I were unsure of the best decision, I would ask my supervisor for clarification."
2nd Answer Example
"I agree with how Kroger operates, with a notable and flexible return policy. I have dispute resolution training from my previous supermarket cashier position if needed. In the past, I have learned that flexibility needs to occur in most customer-facing situations. Receiving a bad review, or having a bad reputation in the community is not worth being stubborn over."
28. What do you know about Kroger? Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
Kroger is the largest supermarket chain in the US. They profit an estimated $110 billion per year and employ approximately half of a million people. Their business holdings include supermarkets, processing plants, manufacturing plants, department stores, jewelry stores, fuel centers, pharmacies, and more. Kroger is well known for fantastic community involvement efforts, and for putting their customers first. Display your enthusiasm for the job by assuring the interviewer you have researched the organization and the role. What did you find in your research that made you excited to work for Kroger?
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Kroger a great deal and am very happy with the positive reviews I came across, online. I would love to work for a company that is so generous. I read on your website that Kroger commits to contributing over $220 million per year in food, products, and financial help to communities across the country. That is incredible, and I look forward to working with such a genuine and generous company."
2nd Answer Example
"I initially wanted to work for Kroger because I shop here all of the time. I love your product, and your company culture seems great. The more I researched the company, the more enthusiastic I became. Your level of community involvement and giving is outstanding. Also, your employee benefits are incredibly generous. I look forward to being eligible for your tuition reimbursement programs. Also, your merchandise discount programs will greatly benefit my family."
29. Kroger puts customer service first. How do you ensure that you always put the customers' needs first?
How to Answer
Kroger promised that the customer will always come first and they show dedication to making every customer touch point the very best it can be. This promise includes friendly service, community involvement, and fresh food, always. Supermarket environments are competitive, and Kroger has cornered the market. Discuss with the interviewer how you will ensure that your customers receive the best service from you.
1st Answer Example
"I have a rule always to treat my customers how I would want treatment in a store or establishment. Customer service is vital to a company's success, and because Kroger is the most profitable supermarket chain in the country, you know how to do it best."
2nd Answer Example
"I like that one of Krogers' motto's is 'You always come first.' I meet my customers' needs and show them they are important, by actively listening to them and also asking the right questions. Treat others as you want to be treated. It's a good rule to live by."