25 Warehouse Clerk Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Warehouse Clerk 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. In which WMS systems are you best versed?
How to Answer
A warehouse management system, or WMS, is a software system that most warehouse focused organizations use. These systems help with the management of staff, daily organization, inventory control, materials movement, and more. Some of the more common warehouse management systems include:
- Oracle NetSuite
- IBM Sterling
- SAP EWM
- Zebra Warehouse
- Fishbowl Warehouse
Before your interview, it's a great idea to research which program they use. If you are not sure where to look, there's a good chance the system is mentioned in the preferred skills section of their job posting. If you do not have experience with their preferred systems, take the time to do some research online, watching tutorials on YouTube or looking at the software providers' website to learn its features.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have spent the past four years working with NetSuite ERP. My current company pays for the premium features such as cloud integration and real-time stats visibility. The program is a significant time saver. I see that you use NetSuite here as well which is great since there will be minimal downtime required to train me on your systems."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to a career in the warehouse industry; however, when I read in your job posting that you prefer experience with Zebra Warehouse, I took the time to learn the program through online tutorials. As you can see, I am very eager to start working here and will do what it takes to land this job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
In many states, it is now illegal for hiring authorities to ask about your current earnings. A question like this will give the interviewer a solid idea of what you are hoping to earn. When you change positions, you want to see an increase in wage. Most interviewees will typically aim for a 7-15% increase for each time they change jobs. This range offers room for negotiations with the new company. This percentage increase reflects economic inflation, unique skills you bring to the table from the last time you joined an organization, and an increase in responsibilities.
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example if you are comfortable doing so. If this makes you uncomfortable, do give as many indicators as you can. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
If you are newer to your career, or the area, and are unsure of what a fair ask may be, there are many reliable salary calculators available online.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year, and I would like to earn slightly higher in my next position, as I have additional supply chain certifications since my last salary negotiation took place."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to earn slightly above where I am now. Currently, I earn $15/hour plus benefits. My target income for the coming year is $30,000."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. What is your ideal work environment?
How to Answer
When applying for a job, the fit has to match both ways. The interviewer knows this and wants to ensure that the work environment they offer is suitable for you. There are a few factors to take into consideration when looking at the work environment:
- Are questions encouraged without judgment?
- Is continuing education encouraged?
- Does the company promote an entrepreneurial mindset?
- Are there regular team huddles?
- Is feedback, from both sides, encouraged and acceptable?
- Are goals set as a team, or only individually?
- Are there strict PPE dress codes, after-hours expectations, and other restrictions?
- Is the initial training through or is there a sink-or-swim mentality?
- Is there recognition for a job well done, or incentives on a regular basis?
- Is nepotism a factor, if the business is family-run?
- Are employees promoted based on performance, or tenure only?
Choose two to three of these factors that are important to you, and before accepting a job offer, ensure that the company hits these 'must-haves' for you and your ideal work environment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am seeking a work environment where promotions happen on results and performance, and not tenure. I may easily outperform a warehouse clerk who has been with the company for ten years and would like to know that my achievements will be recognized and rewarded, despite my being newer to the company. Can you share with me the factors that this company takes into account when considering promotions?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal work environment is one where mistakes are an opportunity for learning, where full training is available, and there are opportunities for continued education. Would you say that your organization meets these factors?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
4. How fast do you respond to customer emails and delivery inquiries? What timeline do you feel is appropriate?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you interpret as a fast turnaround when it comes to responding to your customers. You should take note of how quickly you are responded to, by this organization, if you are a past customer. This question also offers the opportunity for you to ask the interviewer what their company policy or expectation may be. You don't want to say '3 days' when it's 24 hours!
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Logistics is fast moving. For that reason, my clients are never left waiting more than a few hours. What is your timeline like here?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, we have a rule that our inbox needs to be cleared out every three days. So, 72 hours I suppose is the maximum amount of time. With that said, I do try to respond to everyone within 24 hours. Could you share with me your policy?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
5. Would your former or current boss describe you as a worker who gladly goes the extra mile to complete their tasks?
How to Answer
You can say that you will go the extra mile, but it's best to give a real-life example to the interviewer about a time when you did just that. Offer up your references as well and discuss with the interviewer what you feel your most recent employer would say about you. Give examples of how you go the extra mile in the workplace.
Here are some ways that employees will go the extra mile:
- Starting on an upcoming project ahead of time, without being asked.
- Taking action on any feedback, you receive from your manager.
- Coming to meetings ready to brainstorm or, better yet, with ideas already jotted down.
- Creating new ways for you and your team to maximize efficiency
- Going out of your way to make valued customers happy
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My former boss would describe me as an employee who goes the extra mile. In my most recent position, I was always available on my email, and many of my clients had my cell phone number just in case of an after-hours emergency or delivery mix up. When you call my reference he will be happy to expand on that for you, I am sure."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I fully believe that my current employer would describe me as a diligent go-getter. I like to work on upcoming projects without being asked. For instance, I will begin inventory counts before the scheduled time so that we aren't scrambling when our new inventory comes in."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
6. Tell me about your educational qualifications.
How to Answer
Ensure to review the job posting before the interview to familiarize yourself with the educational requirements for this role. You can answer this question by mentioning the degrees and certifications that you have, emphasizing those that are relevant to the position for which you applied.
Should you hold one or several of the preferred educational qualifications listed on the job posting, tell the interviewer you directly meet the educational criteria, making you a great candidate for this role. This question is an opportunity for the interviewer to see you did your due diligence before the interview.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I read on your job posting that one of your preferred educational qualifications is Certified Supply Chain Professional certification (CSCP). As you can see on my resume, I completed this certification two years ago. I am positive my training will be highly beneficial in this warehouse role as I have acquired the knowledge and developed the relevant skills needed to be successful."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have a great deal of on-the-job training which include courses on internal and external supply chain, supplier diversity, vendor management, and inventory control. Should you have additional educational requirements, I am always interested in professional development opportunities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
7. We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught an employee or co-worker stealing?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that they can trust you to report theft and dishonesty in the workplace. Some warehouses 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When I work for an organization, I take pride in the work we are doing. With a focus on delivering value to a company wherever possible, I would feel obligated to report a co-worker stealing from the company. I will refer to any policy or guidelines available and speak to the manager in charge of the department where theft is taking place."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Theft is never acceptable. If I suspected an employee was stealing from the company, I would report the incident immediately. Do you have a process or guidelines in place for this type of reporting?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
8. How do you handle stressful situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you can appropriately handle the stress related to working as a warehouse clerk. Discuss how you can thrive, even during the most stressful times. You can keep your answer brief. If you can, provide an example of a time when you implemented a stress-management technique in your current role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I always remain calm and look for ways to swiftly solve the problem. For instance, if there is an unexpected deadline, I will determine what can be done to ensure the deadline is met. I will do a mindmap of steps to ensure successful completion and will delegate a few tasks if necessary. In brief, I am always ready to adjust my approach because stressful situations are bound to occur in a warehouse environment."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am quite resilient to stress and believe this is because of my eight-plus years' experience being in a warehouse clerk role in a fast-paced logistics environment. Under times of extreme stress, I make sure to give myself a breather whether that be a quick walk to the lunch room for a coffee or a couple of minutes on the phone with my wife who is great at bringing me back down to earth."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
9. Tell me about a time when you used good judgement and logic to solve a problem.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear about a particular situation where you used good judgment to solve a work problem. Be sure to showcase your logic and reasoning abilities. Share a brief overview of the problem, discuss the pro/cons of each decision you could have made, and tell the interviewer why the solution you chose was the best.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I use good logic every day! As a warehouse clerk, I face a multitude of scheduling and delivery problems. I used logic by figuring out how to arrange a drivers' schedule or ensure there are unloaders ready at the dock when a delivery comes in late or early."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I once had to solve a space issue in our warehouse. I rearranged the shipping lanes to allow for smaller customers to be combined in one area and arranged by the scheduled truck arrival, and large customers to have their dedicated shipping area. This change made locating shipments to load onto trucks much easier. My team of operators was thrilled with the change."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
10. When have you shown a willingness to learn a new method?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know when you have shown a willingness to learn new work methods. With changes in technology and policy, most professionals will need to alter their way of work from time to time. It is a great skill to have when you can approach a problem in a new way.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When our company came under new management last year many new methods and policies came into place. I was able to learn many new approaches to our challenges in product movement and customer management. I quite enjoyed the process, and it brought a sort of fresh air to my daily routine."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Our company switched to a new warehouse management system last year, which I was not familiar. I enrolled myself in a 4-week evening course at our local community college so that I could quickly learn the system without it affecting my performance at work. It helped a great deal, and my employers were impressed with my willingness to learn."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
11. How do you show your co-workers the importance of communication in the workplace?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you lead by example when it comes to communication in the workplace. Breakdown of communication in a business setting can have dire effects on the profitability of a warehouse or logistics based organization. This impact is why it is essential, to properly communicate at all times. Give examples of how you put dialogue into action in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I show my co-workers the importance of communication through my willingness to ask questions if I do not understand the first time. I do not pretend to know something to save face. By creating an environment where questions are encouraged, we have increased communication greatly, and have seen a healthier safety record as a result."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I show my co-workers the importance of communication in the workplace simply from leading by example. I set the tone and expectations for how we should communicate by utilizing all forms of written, verbal and interpersonal communications to a tee."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
12. As a warehouse clerk, organization and prioritization is key. How do you keep track of your work, ensure you meet deadlines?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have a sense of urgency about you when it comes to meeting deadlines and taking care of workplace priorities. Being effective in a fast-past warehouse environment requires exceptional organizational skills. Tell the interviewer about your organizational and time management skills.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe excellent organizational skills are essential to successful performance in the workplace. I use a strategic approach by anticipating, and keeping track of, all future orders, deliveries, and deadlines, through our warehouse management system. I will use lists and assign tasks in the system, to keep track of upcoming duties. I also use the calendar feature in our WMS to keep track of pending deliveries. I also keep a digital record of all documentation in the cloud, ensuring it is easily accessible, enabling me to be to react quickly should unanticipated events occur."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I frequently work on multiple projects simultaneously, which I thoroughly enjoy. To make sure I meet deadlines, I identify the most pressing projects based upon their due dates, and use to-do lists and a calendar to keep track of all upcoming duties and important events. I review my lists every morning and at the end of each day to ensure the accomplishment of the assigned duties. I also do not hesitate to work overtime if necessary."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
13. Have you ever worked in a 3PF or 3PL environment?
How to Answer
A 3PF or 3PL environment is a third party fulfillment or third-party logistics set up where a company will outsource services such as warehousing and transportation. Many companies choose a 3PF solution so that they can more easily scale their business and meet the demands of their customers. The interviewer would like to know if you have ever worked in an environment where you are the third-party provider. If you have, take the time to discuss how you benefitted your client and worked hard to exceed their expectations. If you do not have experience as a third-party provider, perhaps you have used a 3PF before.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The company I currently work with is a 3PL environment with our clients being some of the country's largest suppliers of home hardware and appliances. There are many benefits to hiring a third-party provider. For instance, we can handle the delivery schedules flawlessly, without the company needing to purchase a fleet of delivery trucks. I do understand that it is vital, as a third-party provider, to always deliver exceptional service to both the client and their customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not worked in a 3PF or 3PL environment, I am quite familiar with how they operate as well as the pros and cons of each. For instance, a third party provider can allow a fast-growing company to better scale without the need to purchase warehouse space, equipment, or hire large teams of staff. It is essential; however, to perform great due diligence before deciding on a third-party provider, since they can make or break your reputation with your customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
14. Being a warehouse clerk is a demanding job. How will you handle demanding customers while also being physically exhausted?
How to Answer
As a warehouse clerk, you will spend most of your day on your feet, working with your hands, completing physical duties that include heavy lifting. At the same time, you are also performing a customer service function by helping customers locate the product they need, place orders, or track special orders and deliveries. The interviewer would like to know that you can handle all of this on a physical and emotional level. Share with the interviewer that you possess the emotional intelligence and the physical capacity to handle the stress associated with being a warehouse clerk.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand that I will be spending most of my day on my feet, in a customer facing position. I have worked in a retail function for the past three years, and know that I possess the mental fortitude to deal with even the most demanding of customers tactfully, while also being physically strained. In my current role, I lift 20 to 50-pound boxes at least 40 times per day while managing a 4-line phone system. Many times, customers are upset because their delivery is late or their order arrived damaged. I often receive compliments from my supervisor for how expertly I juggle all of the demands."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am physically fit, and accustomed to working in a role where there are physical demands. While going to school, I spent every summer working as a roofer which is incredibly demanding, physically. During the winter months, I have worked at a hardware store, stocking shelves and helping customers locate the items they need. Some customers are more patient than others, and I have dealt with my share of disgruntled people. I understand that being a warehouse clerk is a demanding job, but I am confident that I can handle the stressors that come along with the opportunity. When you call my references, they will say the same about me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
15. How is your speed and accuracy measured in your current role?
How to Answer
When it comes to the warehouse and logistics industry, your speed and accuracy is everything. The interviewer would like to know how your current employer measures your workplace performance. The better you can explain how your success is measured, the more you are showing the interviewer that you are engaged in the workplace, and responsible for your performance.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I am rated by order speed, how well I present upselling opportunities and order accuracy. In my most recent performance review, my manager praised me for having the highest accuracy percentage of the entire team. I look forward to bringing those same successes to this warehouse clerk position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"There are a variety of metrics that my supervisor looks at in a day. These include order processing speed, customer service ranking, and data input errors. It's imperative, as a warehouse clerk, that I can work quickly yet with precision."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
16. When have you used an inventive method to stretch company resources beyond the normal level?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were creative with company resources. In a warehouse environment, resources could include maximizing the schedule to make the most of personnel, working with vendors to get the best deal possible, or finding a way to minimize waste. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have been able to stretch company resources and be sure to include the impact your actions had on your employer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I recently created fillable PDF's for our customer orders, which they can complete from their phone. This small change has encouraged a new system where we no longer have to print long order forms for the pickers. It has saved our company money and significantly reduces paper waste."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous role on the warehouse floor, I saw that we were leaving a lot of extra packaging material on the floor, due to messy cuts, causing a lot of scraps. I suggested a new measurement tool for cutting packaging material more accurately the first time. The suggestion was implemented, and my company has saved over $10,000 in bubble wrap waste alone."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
17. Have you ever made a suggestion for increasing efficiency within logistics or warehousing?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are engaged in your work, and would take the time to think up more efficient or cost-effective solutions to benefit your company. When it comes to logistics and warehousing, there are often opportunities for improving performance, accuracy, and speed. Discuss a time when you approached a supervisor with an idea for improvements, or when you self-corrected, resulting in a personal increase in workplace performance.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Not too long ago, I was reading an article on voice-enabled technology and how some logistics companies were significantly reducing costs with this tech. Some of the improved areas included shipping, returns, inventory control, and increased employee productivity. I approached my supervisor on this, and he agreed to do some research to help me come up with a presentation to our head office next month."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, there are not many processes in place when it comes to continuous improvement. For that reason, I set my own goals and think of new ways to increase my efficiency. These goals could include learning a new part of our warehouse management system, performing inventory faster, or setting objectives for accountability and professional development."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
18. How do you handle back orders?
How to Answer
As a warehouse clerk, you will often come across situations where products are on back order, high-demand items are out of stock, a vendor unexpectedly stops manufacturing a customer-favorite, or there is a product recall. The hiring authority would like to know how you handle a situation like this, where you may need to give a customer disappointing news or push a vendor to deliver a product on time, despite shortages. Show that you are persistent, and creative when it comes to situations requiring a workaround.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When a product is labeled in our system as back ordered, the first thing I do is call the vendor to ensure that the coding is correct. I will ask them to triple check and then give me a firm date when the item is back in stock. I will also call our other locations to see if they have any remaining product they could ship to my location. If the item is truly out, I will work with my customer on finding a comparable product."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If a product were on back order, I would call the manufacturer or vendor for an ETA on the item. If the wait time were too long for the customer, I would help them to discover a similar product that may work for them. As strange as it may sound, I will also recommend they try our competitor if they need the product urgently. I would rather lose the immediate sale but have the customer come back at a later date, knowing we genuinely have their best interest in mind."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
19. Employee safety is of utmost importance in a warehouse environment. How do your actions support a safe workplace for all?
How to Answer
Warehouse safety is a fundamental topic. The hiring authority will want you to disclose if you have ever caused an accident in the workplace, and what kind of workplace training you have received. If the company has a safety manual available online, take some time to study it before your interview. In your response, assure the interviewer that you take safety very seriously.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have received safety training and certification in Workplace Safety and Prevention. Our warehouse is currently 500 days accident-free, an accomplishment of which we are all very proud! The actions that I take, to support a safe work environment for all, including being aware of my surroundings, always putting equipment away properly, and keeping hazardous materials handling knowledge current."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have never caused or been part of, an accident in the workplace. I keep my certifications current and regularly take hazardous materials training. One of the keys to workplace safety is to be respectful of the space which includes being tidy, putting items where they belong, and never leaving surprises for your coworkers. On a more individual level, I am sure to keep myself safe by abiding by the PPE regulations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
20. Discuss your experience in assessing supply needs and placing orders with vendors.
How to Answer
As a warehouse clerk, you may be asked to place orders by email, over the phone, or through a warehouse management system (WMS). Discuss with the interviewer any interaction you have had with vendors in the past, assuring them that you are capable of being responsible for inventory levels.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current clerk role I am to place orders with four different vendors every Tuesday before 5 PM. It's important that I track our levels very carefully to avoid overordering since my company runs very lean. I have reminders on my computer to ask vendors about upcoming discounts or bulk-purchase opportunities. When you call my references, they will attest to the fact that I am always meticulous in my ordering and have solid relationships with each vendor."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that it is important to have healthy vendor relationships since the better they are, the more likely you will receive the best pricing and client service. Although I do not bring experience placing product orders and working directly with vendors, in my current role I am responsible for notifying my supervisor when the stock is running low on a product. I run an inventory count bi-weekly, which is always accurate, and includes over 250 SKUs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
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
22. Do you have experience advising customers on which materials to purchase?
How to Answer
Depending on the industry in which you are applying, you may be required to offer helpful advice to customers who are placing special orders. If you have experience advising on building materials, for instance, share with the interviewer a time when you helped a customer decide between two types of lumber.
What the interviewer is looking for, in your response, is that you are confident enough to have helpful conversations with your customers and that you understand product knowledge is key to success as a warehouse clerk.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I am often asked my personal preference between maple and fir hardwood flooring. I do not like to give my personal opinion so much as I like to ask more questions of the customer related to their project, lifestyle, and the look they are after. From there, I can offer the pros and cons of each, allowing the customer to come to their own conclusion."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I see that exceptional product knowledge will be key in this position, so that I can help your customers choose the building products that best suit their project, and end goal. In my previous position, I worked with developers who had precise budgets, helping them to find the best yet most affordable options. I am confident in my ability to advise customers, and will commit to steering them in the right direction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
23. In which type of warehouse equipment are you experienced?
How to Answer
There are many pieces of equipment and machinery in a warehouse, all meant for the safe and effective movement and handling of merchandise and goods. Some of these pieces of equipment require special licenses to operate, and others require on-the-job training. Examples of equipment could include forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyors, hand trucks, or other lift equipment. Share with the interviewer which of these you have used, and your level of experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have about three years' experience working with pallet jacks, panel moving trucks, hand trucks, and dock levelers. I am great with small equipment and am confident in my ability to learn any other equipment you would require of me to operate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position, I am being trained on the Raymond Reach and should be certified by the end of the month. I also work with a lot of dock and lift equipment. Are there any additional types of machinery, or certification you would like to see, specifically?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
24. In your opinion, what is the best organizational method for a warehouse?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have the experience and knowledge to understand what separates a well-organized warehouse from a poorly organized warehouse. In your response, you can discuss the types of organization you have seen in the past, or even talk about the warehouse management systems and software you have used, which have led to an expertly organized environment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The warehouse I currently work is organized very well, with a variety of storage areas, and clearly marked loading and unloading zones. We also have a highly efficient row system and a central picking area. I understand that some warehouses are not as streamlined as this one, but I do appreciate organization as it greatly speeds up delivery time and improves the customer experience while boosting employee satisfaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Some warehouses are smaller than others and easily become cluttered and disorganized. I know that layout is fundamental. For instance, inventory should be organized by picking frequency and sales revenue. This way, we can dramatically cut down time in the picking process, resulting in much faster customer service."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
25. What major challenges and problems do you expect to face as a warehouse clerk?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have a realistic understanding of the job, and how challenging it can be. Some of the challenges that come with being a warehouse clerk could include being customer facing, tracking orders, using complicated software, or having physical demands on you all day long. Refer to the job description to see which functions seem to be the most challenging, and discuss those. Be sure to express your ability to overcome challenges while remaining efficient and professional. If possible, provide an example from a previous job, volunteer setting, or university experience that showcases your ability to overcome challenges and problems.
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In this warehouse clerk role, I expect the greatest challenge will be the heavy amount of warehouse data input, requiring knowledge, speed, and accuracy. In my current role, we have a robust inventory management system with over 10,000 SKUs. It was a challenge to learn all of the functions and product options; however, in just one short month, I was breezing through the system and even learned shortcuts which led to more efficient customer interactions."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In your job description, there were multiple mentions of assembling customer custom orders and the accuracy and speed which must accompany those tasks. My instinct tells me that this would be the more significant challenge in this role. Currently, I place and track special customer orders every day. Although assembly is not a part of my role, I do work directly with vendors to sort through backorders, which is often stressful and requires a great deal of negotiation."
Written by Rachelle Enns on December 23rd, 2018