30 Fine Retailer Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Fine Retailer 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 Company ABC we pride ourselves in our high end products. Walk me through your experience in selling high end products.
How to Answer
Company ABC products are in the multi-thousand dollar price tag arena. Assure the interviewer that you are able, and comfortable, in selling products with a more significant price tag. Use examples from your work history and talk about a massive sale or large sales target from the past.
1st Answer Example
"I started my career in luxury sales with company ABC and, after spending two years there, I moved on to company XYZ which was an even higher price tag. With ABC, my average sale was $2500, and with XYZ, it was $6500. I am accustomed to sales quotas of $1M plus and would have no issue asking for the sale when it comes to a $10,000 luxury handbag or fine couture item."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a total of 5 years' experience in luxury sales. This experience has included designer labels, diamonds, and cars. I am most comfortable working in a luxury setting and would fit in very well here at Company ABC."
2. In your opinion, what is the biggest difference when it comes to selling low end and high end products?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you understand the approach required to sell Company ABC products successfully. Compare the sales of lower end products to luxury products and discuss what you feel is the most significant difference when it comes to closing the deal.
1st Answer Example
"In my opinion, the most significant difference in selling high-end products is that you must have incredible product knowledge. You need to show value and display why your product is superior, and also why the luxury is worth the price tag. With Company ABC, the brand story is exceptional and the fact that you have been around for so many years is incredible."
2nd Answer Example
"The sales system needs to be more precise, and the sales process may be slower when it comes to selling high-end products. One must give exceptional service, no matter what the price range is of the sale; however."
3. Do you have any formal sales training or certifications?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any sales training you have attended, either independently or through a previous employer. Be sure to highlight any of your biggest 'take-away's' from these courses. If you do not have any formal sales training be sure to express your willingness to attend any training encouraged by Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"I do not have any formal sales training - simply, on-the-job training in all of my current positions. I would be very interested in expanding my sales knowledge. Are there specific sales training programs that you recommend I take?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have attended a variety of sales courses through Dale Carnegie and Sandler Sales. My biggest takeaway from these courses were the lessons on building my business through referrals."
4. At Company ABC we prefer to hire those dedicated to their professional growth. How do you plan to grow your career this year?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are dedicated to your professional growth and that you can see yourself quickly advancing with Company ABC. Give an example of how you maintain a dedication to your growth and advancement in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I am very career focused and would like to see my career grow into a management focused role. I have been reading books on leadership this year which is helping me to prepare for the responsibility when the opportunity comes my way."
2nd Answer Example
"I agree that professional growth is significant for any person wanting to advance in their career. I plan to grow my career by fully immersing myself in training at Company ABC and taking full advantage of any additional workshops and courses that come my way."
5. What is the most expensive product or service you have ever sold?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are capable and experienced when it comes to selling high-end goods. Talk about your best sale, biggest win, or a significant career highlight that excites you. Now is the time to brag about yourself a little bit!
1st Answer Example
"I have sold luxury products for many years, but I would say that the most expensive was a vehicle worth nearly $400K when working at the Aston Martin dealership. That was an incredible day for me!"
2nd Answer Example
"The most expensive product I have ever sold was a $40,000 engagement ring. It was so exhilarating to close a sale that big and it made me thirsty for more big career wins like that!"
6. At Company ABC we always seek to hire top performers. Tell me about your past 3 years' sales targets and results.
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your sales targets and results, being sure to highlight your top achievements. If you have fallen short of your expected targets, you need to own up to that and discuss the situation. Honesty is always the best policy. If you have documentation to back up your sales, bring that with you.
1st Answer Example
"My past three years' sales targets have been $700K, $850K and $1.2M consecutively. Year 1, I met my target at $720K, Year 2 I exceeded by 21% and this past year I was shy just $60K. I attribute this to a substantial return that I ended up having to take due to a manufacturer's defect. Also, the economy has been a bit lighter than we expected this year, and luxury goods did take a bit of a hit."
2nd Answer Example
"I have exceeded my sales targets for the last five years, in fact! I attribute my success to the great client follow up process that I have, as well as my high customer referral rating. In my current role, my annual target is $500,000. The last 3 years I have sold $520,000, $589,000 and $610,000. I have seen consistent growth and this year am aiming to reach $670,000."
7. At Company ABC we always take our appearance and professionalism seriously. How do you feel about adhering to a code of ethics including rules surrounding your workplace wardrobe?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any previous positions where you have been asked to follow a code of ethics, and had to adhere to a particular dress code. Keep your answer positive and assure the interviewer that you are willing to support their specific codes of conduct.
1st Answer Example
"I have adhered to a dress code the past three years. I like it because it takes the guesswork out of my day but also because it gives the organization a professional and clean look. I am happy to adhere to any code of ethics put forth by Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I would love to see your code of ethics and workplace wardrobe documents before fully agreeing; however, I am in full understanding of the importance when it comes to presenting a united front in the workplace as well as appropriate dress."
8. Do you personally own any of our product? What is your favourite product from Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you are personally acquainted with any of their product. Talk to the hiring manager about any personal exposure you may have to their product. Be sure to reinforce your experience positively!
If you have not personally owned any of the Company ABC product, talk about an item you have your eye on and why you hope to own it one day.
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I have been lucky enough to purchase A, B, and C from Company ABC! The craftsmanship is undeniable, and I feel proud to have purchased those items for myself. One can never have too much luxury in their life!"
2nd Answer Example
"I have not personally owned any of the product from Company ABC; however I have admired it for many years. Product XYZ is on my bucket list for personal purchases because the craftsmanship is undeniable."
9. We have peak seasons in the fine retailer industry such as Christmas and Valentines Day. Are you able to work overtime, weekends, and evenings during those times?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you can provide flexibility in your schedule when it comes to the needs of the company. If you have any restrictions on your calendar, this is an excellent time to address them. If you do have limitations, be sure to offer a feasible workaround!
1st Answer Example
"I am more than willing to be a flexible employee for Company ABC. Currently, I do not have many restrictions on my availability, except for Tuesday evenings. If that is a concern, I can always try to work around that engagement."
2nd Answer Example
"At this point, my schedule is wide open, and I welcome the idea of overtime work!"
10. Working for a fine retailer is often much like owning your own business. How have you shown initiative in building your business, or client base, in the past?
How to Answer
Many fine retailers require their sales staff to build a portfolio of clients and create repeat business, resulting in substantial commission opportunities. Share with the interviewer how you develop your 'business' and ensure that your targets are consistently met. Do you have a strong portfolio of clients that follow you from one position to another? This client base is especially important in a luxury retail environment.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role I have built a strong portfolio of clients who I call whenever new products come in. It's the basis of my business and my clients provide me with a firm referral basis as well. I went from a client base of zero to, now, over 150 repeat buyers who come specifically to the store to see me when they want to check out a new collection or refresh their wardrobe."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a true entrepreneur at heart and have been a small business owner in the past. It was an e-commerce store related to beauty and lifestyle products. I enjoyed the opportunity to work on a start-up and learn about social media marketing. I successfully sold my half of the company to my business partner last year."
11. At Company ABC we are looking for team members who will treat every customer like they are the most important customer in the world. Tell me about your customer service skills and how you will uphold this value, if hired.
How to Answer
Customer service is a top priority for Company ABC so be sure to display to the interviewer that you are confident in your customer service skills. If you have an example of a time when you went over and above the call of duty, this is a great time to talk about that.
1st Answer Example
"I am consistently the most recognized sales professional in my current organization when it comes to positive customer feedback. I have very strong follow up skills and always ensure my customers have my undivided attention. I look forward to bringing my strong customer service skills to Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
Here are a few keywords you can use to describe your customer service skills:
- Honest
- Friendly
- Helpful
- Patient
- Attentive
- Clear Communicator
- Use of Positive Language
- Strong Product Knowledge
- Goal Oriented
12. At Company ABC we keep a close eye on product performance and sales. Are you accustomed to positions where you are responsible for a particular sales target each week?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about how your performance has been measured in the past. Are you comfortable with being monitored on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis? Highlight some of your sales goals from the past, and discuss how you met or exceeded those goals.
1st Answer Example
"I am accustomed to being closely monitored when it comes to my personal KPI's and performance. I am open to coaching and motivation to keep my performance at its highest level. Currently, I am measured on my daily, weekly and monthly performance. It keeps me accountable, and I enjoy the challenge. For the past three years, I have been in the top 10 for sales earnings, company-wide. I plan to continue that success here at Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position, I am not responsible for a specific sales target. I do keep an eye on my sales on my own because I like how it motivates me."
13. At Company ABC we like to promote from within, whenever possible. Where would you like to see your career grow over the next 3-5 years?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you would like to see your career flourish. What can Company ABC offer you that you are not receiving with your current employer? Show your enthusiasm for career growth with Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"I am currently working in a smaller organization where promotions and growth are limited. I am interested in joining Company ABC as a sales representative and then plan to grow my way into a leadership role. In 3-5 years I would love to be in a dedicated leadership position such as a regional manager or customer care manager."
2nd Answer Example
"Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
14. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is on your resume. You are indeed not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids, or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate!
Focus on unique non-work related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when its possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)
1st Answer Example
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."
2nd Answer Example
"A bit about me - I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. It was the best experience that I could have given myself as I was able to learn so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US just last month and have been actively looking for work the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."
15. Why do you want a career with Company ABC?
How to Answer
You may be taking the next step in your career or starting fresh out of college. It's important to do your research on Company ABC before interviewing. You can start by browsing the 'About Us' page on their website to learn about their mission and what they are doing to give back to the community, for example. Perhaps they started their company 50 years ago, so they know what they're doing! Share a few facts you learned from your research and explain how working there will help you accomplish your goals.
1st Answer Example
"I am newer to my career and feel that Company ABC will offer me the training that I need to kick-start my sales career. I have had my eye on your company for a year now and am confident that I will find a long-term fit here with all of the growth opportunities, training, and other methods of support that you offer."
2nd 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 recent education in business management while giving me an opportunity to advance in luxury sales."
16. How do you think we can be more innovative at Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer isn't asking you to try to reinvent the wheel, right on the spot! You can share an idea for an upcoming trend or talk about a new way they can give back to communities in need. This is a smart way for Company ABC to test your knowledge of their organization as well.
Pick a topic like investing in employees, or developing a phone app. Take into account their values so that you can share an idea that they would find exciting and relevant.
1st Answer Example
"I know from my research that Company ABC puts a lot of effort into gaining momentum from millennial customers. This demographic is highly technical and constantly in touch via social media outlets. I would consider creating more consistent hashtags and additional hashtag-driven contests for social media. The customer could take photo's with your product, and they would post it on their social media accounts. You can never have too much exposure to places like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat."
2nd Answer Example
"It's difficult for me to provide feedback on innovation without having worked here; although, there is always room for improvement, in any organization. I find your branding to be very clean and energetic. One suggestion I would make would be to advertise more on less traditional platforms such as Spotify or social media."
17. Collaboration is important to us at Company ABC. How do you motivate your fellow team members?
How to Answer
You don't have to be a manager or a team leader to motivate others. Offering a listening ear or providing words of encouragement can make a world of difference to your coworkers. Sometimes, just being a positive influence and showing up consistently can also make a difference.
If you have worked in a leadership role, think of ways you helped set clear goals or helped individuals cultivate a new skill. Reflect on your experience and share some ways that you have helped encourage others to keep up the good work!
1st Answer Example
"I motivate my fellow team members by coming to work with an exceptional attitude every day. I won't allow anyone's bad mood to let me down. That influence alone has helped many of my coworkers get through their day on a more positive note."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that I motivate solely through my actions and my positive disposition. I try always to have a smile on my face and be ready for the next challenge. It's a contagious disposition!"
18. When have you had to adapt to change?
How to Answer
Being able to adapt to change in the workplace is an essential skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have had to adjust to changes on the job. How did you handle the transition? Was it a positive reaction?
1st Answer Example
"In my current role there is a lot of turnover when it comes to our management team. I have had to adapt to 3 new managers in the past four years. It is not the ideal situation, but I can adjust for the good of the team."
2nd Answer Example
"Last year our company was sold to a competitor and a lot our policies and procedures changed, along with some senior management. I did adapt well throughout the changes because I fully believed in the company's vision."
19. What would you do if a client asked you about a product or service and you were unsure of the answer?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if you are an independent thinker. Explain that you would take the time to try and figure out the answer, but you are not afraid to ask questions if you need to.
1st Answer Example
"If I had a client ask me about something that I didn't know enough about, I would find the answer for them before giving a potentially false answer. I am okay with admitting when I don't know something, and I love to learn new things. Of course, I would find the answer quickly by asking the appropriate person or finding it within the company's internal resources."
2nd Answer Example
"I plan to know everything possible about your products so I sure hope this would not happen to me very often! Should it happen, I would utilize all of the resources available to me or ask a manager for assistance."
20. 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 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
21. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you should be paid based on tenure, results, or both? Discuss this with the interviewer and back your answer with an example, if possible.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that employees should be paid, and rewarded, based on their performance. A new employee would be greatly motivated through being rewarded for performance and it I believe this model encourages a healthy competition with tenured employees."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel both performance and experience should be equally rewarded and weighted."
22. At Company ABC, we like to reward our best employees. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating, and Company ABC knows it! Talk to the interviewer about your feelings on performance incentives. Keep in mind, most employees who do not love performance incentives usually have a history of under-performing!
1st Answer Example
"I feel that performance incentives are a great idea. They keep an employee motivated to do a great job and ensure that they are on top of their KPI's. The majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes. I know I am!"
2nd Answer Example
"I think performance incentives are important for driving people to get results. For me, they give me some skin in the game and get my team engaged in making an impact towards the results."
23. Tell me about your experience in training and coaching others.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are capable of leading and training others, even if you are not in an official leadership role. Discuss a time when you have taken on coaching responsibilities. If you do not bring experience coaching in the workplace, perhaps you can discuss any coaching experience you may have when it comes to extracurricular such as sports teams or volunteer work.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I trained new hires on how to use our CRM system. It was a very cool experience because it showed me that I love to teach and train. I am good at explaining how things work. It required a lot of patience, but it helped me to recognize my leadership potential."
2nd Answer Example
If you lack experience in training and coaching, you can respond with: "I haven't had the opportunity to coach or train anyone in the workplace formally, but I am interested in learning how to be an effective leader. I am eager to learn how to motivate others best."
24. Would you consider yourself a creative person?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creativity and how you have implemented that desire in the workplace. Even if you do not consider yourself to be a 'creative person,' there is a substantial change that you have made creative minded decisions in your career.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself to be a creative individual. One example of this would be the telephone sales scripts that I crafted for our inside sales team. They were lively and effective, and sales increased by 23% in the first 90 days of implementation."
2nd Answer Example
"I am someone who alternates back and forth with the right/left brain, but I will always consider myself a very creative person. I admire the creativity and unconventional thinking in business and arts."
25. At Company ABC we have had concerns with employee theft. What would you do if you caught a co-worker stealing?
How to Answer
Some businesses have trouble with employee theft, and they need to make sure that they are hiring someone who is honest and trustworthy. Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you caught a co-worker stealing at Company ABC. Take this as an opportunity to reiterate your loyalty.
1st Answer Example
"I am sure that you have an internal policy for employee theft so I can assure you that I would follow the required steps to report the theft. I am a trustworthy person with a strong track record of honesty with my previous employers."
2nd Answer Example
"If I caught an employee stealing, I would report the incident immediately. As a previous manager, I understand the value of employee honesty."
26. Tell me about a time at work when your integrity was challenged. How did you handle it?
How to Answer
Have you ever faced a time, in the workplace, where you were put to the test when it came to your integrity? Perhaps a co-worker has asked you to lie, or you were tempted to be dishonest on your time sheet when the boss was away. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you overcame the temptation to be dishonest.
1st Answer Example
"Last year our manager went away on vacation for three weeks. Some of my co-workers wanted to falsify our time sheets to reflect overtime hours that we did not work. I disagreed and was able to convince them that it was a bad idea and certainly not worth being fired over."
2nd Answer Example
"I once had a subordinate that would perform work after clocking out. There was a rumor later that I forced my team to work off the clock to save the company money. I did not know it was happening, and I certainly did not ask anyone to work outside of their scheduled shift. The situation was cleared up later."
27. At Company ABC we like to keep our employees motivated on the job. What causes you to feel dissatisfied in your job?
How to Answer
Everyone will have their particular triggers that cause them to feel dissatisfaction on the job. Talk to the interviewer about any factors that may deflate or discourage you in the workplace. Help Company ABC to understand how they can motivate you!
1st Answer Example
"I can feel dissatisfaction on the job when I am not feeling heard or when there is not mutual respect among the team members. I work best in more harmonious situations where there is little drama or gossip."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not like to dwell on the negative so I would much prefer to discuss what makes me feel most motivated on the job! I am very motivated by surroundings where I feel listened to, valued, and respected. A positive mindset and environment are important to me."
28. What kind of people do you enjoy working with?
How to Answer
Culture fit is a crucial factor when looking for a new position. Talk to the interviewer about the types of personalities that you best work with. Be sure to remain positive and avoid using this as an opportunity to speak poorly of previous colleagues.
1st Answer Example
"I best enjoy working with individuals who are driven, positive, energetic, and take accountability for their work. I do have the ability to work with a large variety of individuals; however, these are the ideal traits I would see in future colleagues."
2nd Answer Example
"Positive and driven people are the type that I love working with most! With that said, I can get along well with an extensive range of individuals."
29. I have worked with Company ABC for 12 years now. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the Company ABC website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in the luxury fashion industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? In addition, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
30. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if they are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far. Be honest and give a legitimate timeline on when you expect to be accepting an offer.
1st Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
2nd Answer Example
"I am passively seeking a new opportunity which means that I am very particular about where I apply. At this point, I have interviewed with a couple of companies; however, they were not the right roles for me. I am very excited to learn more about this position with Company ABC."