How to Answer: What steps do you take when you cannot locate an item in the warehouse?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Warehouse Clerk job interview.
21. What steps do you take when you cannot locate an item in the warehouse?
How to Answer
It is essential, in your response, that you can show the interviewer you are a person who takes the initiative and can independently problem solve. Walk the hiring authority through the steps that you make when you cannot locate an item in the warehouse. If you do not come from a warehouse related position, you can discuss how you overcome problems in the workplace independently.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When I cannot locate an item it is usually because the item was put away in the wrong place, or it is out of stock, but the inventory level in our warehouse management system is off. If I cannot find an item right away, I will ask one of our pickers to help me find it. If the customer is waiting, I will explain the situation and give them the option of waiting or receiving a courtesy call when we locate the item. It's important not to appear scattered or flustered in these situations. Although frustrating, this type of situation does happen at times."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Although I do not yet have experience in the warehouse industry, I understand that it can be frustrating when there are solid systems in place only to find that an item was not put away in the right spot, or the inventory was calculated wrong. I currently work in a retail shoe store, and this happens to me often where the size of a shoe will be put away in the wrong box. I then have to search all of the boxes of that same style, in the hope of finding the correct size. All of this, while the customer is waiting! I do ensure that I remain professional, and keep a smile on my face while trying to problem solve. If the matter is urgent and we are not busy, I will ask a co-worker for help so that we do not risk losing a sale."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018