Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone you didn't get along with?

The interviewer wants to hear that you handle conflict appropriately in the workplace. Start off by sharing with the interviewer that you typically get along with your co-workers great, but from time-to-time, you might have a disagreement with someone. Next, think of a time when you had a conflict with a co-worker. Tell the interviewer a brief overview of why you had a disagreed. Discuss how you ensured that you did not embarrass the individual by pulling them aside into a private space to have the conversation. Tell the interviewer that instead of continuing to be frustrated, it was better to talk about the situation to resolve it. Finally, be sure to mention that the person continued to have a respectful relationship with you following the conversation due to the way that you handled the situation.

Tell me about a time when it was better to be agreeable in a situation rather than continue the arguement.

When you come to work, you are there to work. Not be in constant arguments with fellow employees. Unless you are an executive and making a high level decision, your argument with a fellow coworker is not that important. Specifically in a retail setting where customers are always around. Now, this question could also relate to your engagement with customers. Just ask yourself, Why in the world would you ever get into an argument with a customer? Customer is always right, you are there to serve the customer and help them with their project. If Customer would like to rip off every roof shingle with a putty knife, who are you to tell them otherwise? Sure, tell them that would be a long painstaking process and they should at least consider the claw on a hammer, if they are unwilling to spend money on a shingle remover. With that said, tell the interviewer this job is not about your pride, but about helping customers, and your only concern is that they leave happy and with any knowledge you may provide. If they reject it, so be it.

Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for customer service?

Talking about a time when you calmed an upset customer can be a great example for this question. Be ready to talk about the time you went above and beyond with handling a customer complaint. Explain how you personally listened to every word the customer had to say. Next, describe how you apologized to the customer with a calm voice and sincere heart. Finally, be sure to tell the interviewer what solution you offered the customer. Perhaps you did not charge them for a meal if it was in a restaurant. Maybe you offered a new dish for them to try. Be sure to close with how happy the customer was when they left! Or, you may approach the question with something you have done during the normal course of the day to go above and beyond for your customers. For example, if you work at a grocery store, you might share that you walk the customers out to their car when customer levels allow and assist them with loading the groceries into their car.

Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you prioritize?

Start off by telling the interviewer that you are typically an organized person and achieve everything on time. Share how you usually organize your work. You might share that you keep a to-do list of all the objectives that you must complete, keep your electronic calendar up-to-date, and that you spend 5-10 minutes at the beginning of your day reviewing your calendar for the day as well as prioritizing your to-do list for that day. Next, share about a time when you failed to get an assigned task done on time due to something outside of your control. Perhaps you were sick, an emergency arose, or someone else called in sick for the day changing your priorities. Share how you prioritized your time with the goal of achieving the deadline, and share why you were not able to achieve it on time. Finally, be sure to wrap it up by re-iterating that you are usually a deadline driven person, and you almost always complete everything on time.

Tell me about a time when you had to be a leader. How was the outcome?

The interviewer wants to hear about a positive experience you have had with leadership. Think about a time when you led a sports team, led a college project, managed a store, or coached a little league team. These are all great examples! Start off by giving the interviewer a high-level overview of what you were leading, and share that you enjoyed the experience. Discuss the positive outcome that the group had, and explain that you would gladly lead again!

Why should we not hire you?

The interviewer is hoping to hear that there is no reason not to hire you! Simply tell the interviewer that you would be a great employee, and confidently share that there is no reason not to hire you! You might wrap it up by sharing that you are customer focused, have a proven employment record, and you really love Menards!

You have been out of work for a while, what have you been doing?

If you have a recent gap in your employment history, be prepared to discuss what you have been doing during this time. The interviewer needs to hear that you have been doing something productive with your time. You might share how you have been spending your days searching for jobs. Perhaps you have been caring for a loved one who is ill. Maybe you have been lucky enough to take a European vacation. Or, maybe you have been furthering your education. Simply share with the interviewer how you have been productive with your time.

How do you define good customer service?

Start off by telling the interviewer that good customer service means having a positive attitude, and creating a great experience for customers while doing what it takes to ensure customers come back to your store. Tell the interviewer that good customer service is dropping what you are doing to happily assist a customer, greeting them when they walk through the door, and asking them if you can help them find something.

If you found a twenty dollar bill in the parking lot, what would you do?

You would turn the money in at the member service desk or to a store manager! The interviewer needs to hear that you are honest and ethical. In this situation, the best thing to do is to turn the money in, and it is what the interviewer expects to hear from you. Be sure to mention that the person who dropped the money may desperately need that $20 today, and turning it in will give them a better chance of finding the money.

How do you think you can work in a team environment here at Menards?

Menards is a team environment, and the interviewer wants to hear that you enjoy being a part of a team. Start off by telling the interviewer that you like being a part of a team. Share that you are open to mentoring/training new team members once you have learned your role. Tell the interviewer that you can fill in for team members who might be ill as long as you have a little notice to re-arrange your schedule. Discuss how you look forward to celebrating team member birthdays and work anniversaries. And, mention that you look forward to achieving goals together as a group.

If you find a problem going on with two different employees, what would you do?

You should evaluate the problem first. Can this argument or disagreement be handled with a simple conversation? If so, you should try to de-escalate the situation. Also, evaluate whether or not this disagreement is impacting any customers. If it is, you need to diffuse the situation immediately. If this problem is beyond your control, you need to immediately tell a supervisor. If these employees are working together to steal company property, the managers need to know immediately.

What steps do you take to solve a problem?

Start off by telling the interviewer that once you recognize a problem, you like to analyze the problem and all possible solutions. Next, share that you pick your best solution, and implement it. Finally, be sure to mention that you like to take note of the outcome of your choice because this helps you continually learn to ensure you keep making good choices in the future.

What do you know about Tools?

Be honest with the interviewer about your knowledge of tools. If you have a lot of knowledge and experience, that is great! If not, simply tell the interviewer that you do not know a lot and you look forward to learning all about tools. The interviewer will likely ensure you receive extra training when you start to help you learn the ins-and-outs of tools.

Do you shop at Menards?

Hopefully you do! If a Menards, or yourself, just moved to the area then it is excusable. Otherwise, if a Menards has been 5-10 minutes away from your house for the last few years, you better get moving and visit a location! An interviewer likes to ask these questions to test your passion for the company. If you have never visited a Menards, then you have no connection whatsoever to a Menards. You'll be more likely to call it quits, when things aren't going as you planned. If an interviewer asks you this question, tell them how often you visit, and be sure to mention how much you enjoy every single visit!

How well would you say you know our departments and what we sell?

Be honest with the interviewer about your knowledge of departments and what is sold. If you have a lot of knowledge and experience, that is great! If not, simply tell the interviewer that you do not know a lot and you look forward to learning . You might say that you know the basics and that Menards offers a plumbing, lighting, paint, flooring, appliance, electrical, garden, and tool department. You might also mention that you know the high-level of products sold at Menards such as washers/dryers, kitchen appliances, tools, paint, patio furniture, flowers, plumbing, and many many more!

Have you ever worked on a house before? What was your project?

Think about a recent home project you have done. This can be anything from remodeling your home to putting on new light plate covers or painting in your apartment. Tell the interviewer, "Yes, I have!" Follow this with a high-level overview of what project you tackled. If you have any class work or job training in any home improvement scenario, be sure to mention that as well! If you have no experience, be sure to have a good reason why you may not. Example: 'I recently purchased my house with my wife last week, and I am eager to get a jump start on new projects. Prior to this house, we rented for five years, and no maintenance was required.'

What to you makes Menards better than Home Depot and Lowes?

The size and depth of products! Menards also has a much friendlier and helpful staff. I've personally ordered siding and lumber from the building materials department and it was a breeze. The staff was helpful and knowledgeable. The pick up was easy. The selection of tile, and hardwood is far superior. The windows and doors available at Menards are far better than that of Home Depot and Lowes. I still feel there are a few areas of Menards that can be improved, but overall they are becoming the dominant home improvement store in my opinion.

What makes an ideal employee for this position?

Someone who loves home improvement! If you are not one of them, hopefully you are only applying for a truck driving position where it doesn't matter so much as to what you are hauling. Otherwise, your chances of getting a job at Menards are slim. With that said, know home improvement before walking into this interview. Be able to tell the interviewer, a great candidate for Menards would be someone who loves home improvement, has great customer service skills, and truly enjoys helping and serving people.

How many stores do we have at Menards?

Currently, Menards has 280 stores. Several more are slated to be open this year and next. These types of interview questions, are to test you awareness for the company. Basically, have you done your homework on researching Menards history and current market situation, before you walked into this job interview. With that said, unless you are interviewing for a corporate position, I would not sweat about knowing any extremely detailed history about Menards.

Tell me about your experience in working in retail?

Tell the interviewer about all the positive experiences you had in retail, and that is the reason you are applying for this job at Menards. You enjoy every day, helping a new person, working together with your coworkers, discovering new products that come to Menards. That is one thing for sure to be excited about; their are always new products being launched in Home Improvement! You enjoy learning about these products and can't wait to demonstrate them to customers. Sure there can be some negatives about retail, but for the most part, it is a fun and exciting job and you are eager to begin that experience with Menards.

When was the last time you contributed to a team effort and what was your role?

The interviewer wants to hear that you enjoy being a part of a team and that you contribute to the success of the team. Start off by sharing the last time you contributed to a team effort. Perhaps it was a large project at work. Maybe it was on a basketball team. Or, you might have led a Boy/Girl Scout troop. All of these make great examples! Discuss how you personally made efforts to contribute to the team, and be sure to mention how successful the team was!

Have you ever helped someone else achieve their goal or helped to better themselves, if so, how?

Think about the times you have helped a friend achieve their goal. You may have run a few miles with them each day in preparation for a 10k. You might have stayed up late at night reviewing flashcards for a big test the next day. Or, maybe you watched a family. Aslo, talk about any home improvement projects you helped your friend complete!

Why do you feel you will be better suited for this job than the rest of the applicants?

Talking about ourselves in this way can be challenging. We recommend reaching out to a few colleagues, family members, and friends. Ask them for their opinion. You'll probably be surprised at the consistency in their responses! Their answers will give you insight into how to answer this question. Tell the interviewer what sets you apart, and explain how your co-workers, family members, and friends have encouraged you with your gift in this area.

Why do you want to work in retail?

Working in retail can definitely be a challenging experience. Knowing what a career in retail is, and what to expect, before your job interview is a huge plus. Example, customer service skills are very important. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you have the patience and positive attitude to work in a retail environment. Also, you love helping others! You are thrilled to share your home improvement knowledge with all patrons. Tell the interviewer, you enjoy being on your feet! You can't imagine what it would be like to have a desk job, and you love the daily interactions with new people.

What is your best personal trait?

This should be easy! Don't overthink it, just describe what you believe you are best at. For me, I would say I love thinking and analyzing problems. I love to make things better, and more efficient. At my last job, I reduced employee waste by 20% by introducing office initiatives that saved paper. Whatever your answer may be, be prepared to describe a scenario in which you have applied that trait in the work place.

What are some of your weaknesses?

Some variation of this question will always be asked in the interview. Remember to apply this equation: 'My work style is X, and that means I am bad at Y, and I try to compensate by doing Z.' An example would be: 'I do not enjoy talking in front of large groups of people, therefore when I have to give instructions to a large team, I have to spend an hour beforehand writing notes and making sure my presentation is rehearsed.'

Do you prefer working in a team environment or alone?

At Menards, you really should enjoy working in a team environment, unless you plan on stocking shelves. So if its stocking shelves, that can actually be a plus, because most of them work in one aisle by them self. Tell the interviewer, you enjoy working in teams. Cite an example, of when you last worked in a team environment. Remind the interviewer of how well you interact with people, how well your communication skills are, and it's who you are as a person.

How well do you handle customer complaints?

By listening! Every customer complaint should generate your full interest. Listen to the customer, then analyze the situation. See how you can help the customer after the complaint. You want them leaving Menards happy, and coming back.

Why do you want to work at Menards?

Menards is an amazing retail opportunity. One of the fastest growing home improvement stores in the country. Talk about how you know Menards is dedicated to teamwork, service, and quality; all traits you have and are excited to use. Describe how it would be a great opportunity for you to start your career in retail, at a place that emphasizes on promoting within the company. Next, go into your passion for home improvement, and how you believe you will fit right into Menards and will have a huge impact on their team.

What do you know about working in retail?

It's okay to give an honest answer here, tell the interviewer you heard it's a demanding, and tough job. List the reasons why you are then qualified and are able to handle the work involved. Customer satisfaction is the key at any retailer, and you understand what it takes to provide excellent customer service.

Describe a time when you disliked company rules in your last job?

Even if you dislike rules at times, you have to demonstrate to the interviewer that you understand there is always a reason why rules are put in place. You may not have to know the exact reason, but you value the judgement of the company, and will honor any rules that are in place.

Describe a time when you had to sacrifice quality to complete a job?

Quality should always come first. When answering this question, make sure you demonstrate to the interviewer you would never sacrifice quality to get any job done faster. That is all this question is about. Just picture yourself as a Menards customer, what would you prefer, something done right, or something done half-way? Therefore when answering this, say, 'As a customer to Menards, I know this place is special because of it's quality. I would never sacrifice quality to complete a job. I'd rather stay extra hours to finish the job, then do something half-way.'

How do you expect to make a difference at Menards?

The interviewer wants to hear that you are passionate about working at Menards and have thought about how you can make a positive impact while working there. Think about what kind of impact you could make. Here are some examples: Your knowledge of home improvement would be a great asset to Menards, your positive attitude will keep customers coming back, your friendly demeanor will be greatly appreciated by the customers, you are very responsible and will always be on time for your shifts. Those are a few examples, and I am sure you can think of a few of your own that fit your personality.

Where do you see yourself in the Menards organization in two years?

The interviewer wants to hear that you have realistic career progression expectations within Menards. Tell the interviewer that you are excited about joining the team at Menards, and you anticipate that you will likely be in the same job in two years that you are hired for. If a promotion or another opportunity is available before then, that is great! But, you recognize that it takes time for promotions and internal job changes to occur, so in two years, there is a good chance you will still be in the same job title, and that is okay with you! Be sure to mention that your goal is to learn as much as you can, so when the opportunity arises, you can be promoted.If you are a student, tell the interviewer that you plan to stay at Menards through graduation in the role that you are hired into, and then share what career or further education you hope to be pursuing following graduation. If Menards offers careers in your field, such as management, be sure to mention that you would be open to considering a career in your field at Menards if one is available upon graduation.

What would you do if a coworker asked you to help them steal?

The interviewer wants to hear that you are an honest and ethical person. Tell the interviewer that you would not steal if a coworker asked you to, and share that you would instead tell your manager about the situation because it is the right thing to do.

How would you deal with an angry customer while you were busy completing tasks?

The interviewer wants to hear that customers are your priority. Tell the interviewer that you would graciously stop what you were doing and start by genuinely listening to the customer. Next, share that you would apologize to the customer and take whatever corrective action was necessary. Be sure to mention that most challenging customers really do not take much time, and they really just want to know that their opinion is being heard. Finally, be sure to mention that once you have the customer on their way you would go back to working on your task.

Name your three best qualities?

Think about the things that people have repeatedly commended you for. What are the common qualities that you have received praise for at work, in school, or within your family? These things make great examples! Simply share your three qualities, and tell the interviewer that other people have told you they really like these qualities in you. Some examples might include your joyful attitude, your kindhearted spirit, your ability to help others, your knack for striking up a conversation, or your patience.

Menards Interview Questions

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1. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone you didn't get along with?
2. Tell me about a time when it was better to be agreeable in a situation rather than continue the arguement.
3. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for customer service?
4. Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you prioritize?
5. Tell me about a time when you had to be a leader. How was the outcome?
6. Why should we not hire you?
7. You have been out of work for a while, what have you been doing?
8. How do you define good customer service?
9. If you found a twenty dollar bill in the parking lot, what would you do?
10. How do you think you can work in a team environment here at Menards?
11. If you find a problem going on with two different employees, what would you do?
12. What steps do you take to solve a problem?
13. What do you know about Tools?
14. Do you shop at Menards?
15. How well would you say you know our departments and what we sell?
16. Have you ever worked on a house before? What was your project?
17. What to you makes Menards better than Home Depot and Lowes?
18. What makes an ideal employee for this position?
19. How many stores do we have at Menards?
20. Tell me about your experience in working in retail?
21. When was the last time you contributed to a team effort and what was your role?
22. Have you ever helped someone else achieve their goal or helped to better themselves, if so, how?
23. Why do you feel you will be better suited for this job than the rest of the applicants?
24. Why do you want to work in retail?
25. What is your best personal trait?
26. What are some of your weaknesses?
27. Do you prefer working in a team environment or alone?
28. How well do you handle customer complaints?
29. Why do you want to work at Menards?
30. What do you know about working in retail?
31. Describe a time when you disliked company rules in your last job?
32. Describe a time when you had to sacrifice quality to complete a job?
33. How do you expect to make a difference at Menards?
34. Where do you see yourself in the Menards organization in two years?
35. What would you do if a coworker asked you to help them steal?
36. How would you deal with an angry customer while you were busy completing tasks?
37. Name your three best qualities?

Menards Interview Questions

1. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone you didn't get along with?

2. Tell me about a time when it was better to be agreeable in a situation rather than continue the arguement.

3. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for customer service?

4. Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you prioritize?

5. Tell me about a time when you had to be a leader. How was the outcome?

6. Why should we not hire you?

7. You have been out of work for a while, what have you been doing?

8. How do you define good customer service?

9. If you found a twenty dollar bill in the parking lot, what would you do?

10. How do you think you can work in a team environment here at Menards?

11. If you find a problem going on with two different employees, what would you do?

12. What steps do you take to solve a problem?

13. What do you know about Tools?

14. Do you shop at Menards?

15. How well would you say you know our departments and what we sell?

16. Have you ever worked on a house before? What was your project?

17. What to you makes Menards better than Home Depot and Lowes?

18. What makes an ideal employee for this position?

19. How many stores do we have at Menards?

20. Tell me about your experience in working in retail?

21. When was the last time you contributed to a team effort and what was your role?

22. Have you ever helped someone else achieve their goal or helped to better themselves, if so, how?

23. Why do you feel you will be better suited for this job than the rest of the applicants?

24. Why do you want to work in retail?

25. What is your best personal trait?

26. What are some of your weaknesses?

27. Do you prefer working in a team environment or alone?

28. How well do you handle customer complaints?

29. Why do you want to work at Menards?

30. What do you know about working in retail?

31. Describe a time when you disliked company rules in your last job?

32. Describe a time when you had to sacrifice quality to complete a job?

33. How do you expect to make a difference at Menards?

34. Where do you see yourself in the Menards organization in two years?

35. What would you do if a coworker asked you to help them steal?

36. How would you deal with an angry customer while you were busy completing tasks?

37. Name your three best qualities?