Focus on describing any retail or customer service work you have done. Describe where you worked, how long, and what your duties entailed. If you have not worked before, assure the interviewer that you are a people person and look forward to working in a retail and customer service position.

Avoid saying you worked in retail or customer service if you have not. The interviewer has your resume and references and will quickly see that you are being untruthful. You will not get passed over for the position because you lack retail or customer service experience, but you will be disqualified if you are dishonest.

"Yes, I have five years of experience working in customer service jobs. I worked as a hostess at a restaurant and then moved up to a server position. Customers often requested to sit in my section, and my supervisor always commented on my customer service skills in my performance reviews. I enjoy working with the public and providing excellent customer service."