Big Lots Interview Questions: 15 Common Questions and How to Ace Your Interview

Landing a job at Big Lots can provide opportunities for advancement, competitive pay, and a fun retail environment. With over 1,400 stores across the U.S., the discount retailer offers diverse openings for candidates.

Preparing for the interview process is key for showcasing your qualifications and nailing the job offer, Understanding common Big Lots interview questions and how to give winning responses will help boost your confidence

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What to expect in a Big Lots interview
• 15 frequent Big Lots interview questions and sample answers
• Top tips for acing your Big Lots job interview

Let’s get started so you can ace your upcoming Big Lots interview!

What to Expect in a Big Lots Interview

The Big Lots interview process typically involves:

• 1-2 rounds of interviews, either in-person or virtual
• Interviewers including the direct manager and potentially district/regional managers
• A blend of behavioral, situational, and general questions
• Time to ask your own questions about the role
• Potential supplemental skills tests or assessments

While each interviewer has their own style, understanding the overall process will help you feel prepared and confident on the big day.

15 Common Big Lots Interview Questions and Answers

Let’s look at some of the most frequently asked Big Lots interview questions along with strong sample responses

1. Tell me about yourself.

Focus your 1-2 minute response on your background most relevant to the role. Share high-level career highlights education and passions/interests. Conclude with what excites you about the position.

2. Why do you want to work at Big Lots?

Show you’ve researched the company by highlighting details that intrigue you, like their discount model, growth, company values, and emphasis on culture. Share why you’re passionate to contribute your skills.

3. Why are you interested in this role?

Explain why the role is appealing based on your background, abilities, and interests. Share how the position aligns well with your experience and future goals.

4. What retail experience do you have?

Spotlight your most relevant retail experience and achievements. Emphasize transferable skills if your experience isn’t direct. Express eagerness to learn quickly.

5. How do you handle angry customers or complaints?

Share an example of de-escalating an upset customer by listening empathetically, apologizing, resolving the issue if possible, and remaining calm. Emphasize patience and commitment to service.

6. How do you handle multiple priorities and tasks?

Discuss strategies you use to organize and complete many competing tasks efficiently, such as lists, reminders, requesting help when overloaded, and continually re-prioritizing based on urgency.

7. What are your strengths?

Share 2-3 strengths that would make you excel in this role, such as customer service skills, attention to detail, organization, time management, etc. Back with specific examples.

8. How do you stay motivated in a retail role?

Express what energizes you at work, whether it’s helping customers, learning continuously, tackling challenges, encouragement from leaders, or maintaining an upbeat attitude. Share how you maintain focus and high standards throughout long shifts.

9. Why should we hire you?

Summarize your strongest qualifications and achievements that make you the ideal candidate for the role. You can highlight your work ethic, skills, passion for the brand, and eagerness to contribute.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

While the future is hard to predict, express your desire to grow your skills, responsibilities, and leadership over time at Big Lots. Convey your long-term interest in sticking with the company.

11. What is your availability?

Demonstrate availability that matches store needs across evenings, weekends, and holidays. While you can share preferences, emphasize willingness to be flexible and work the schedule required.

12. How do you respond to pressure or fast-paced environments?

Share an example of staying cool under pressure and delivering successfully despite tight deadlines or overwhelming situations. Emphasize grace under fire, focus, and adaptability.

13. What is your greatest accomplishment so far?

Pick an achievement that illustrates skills needed for the role, like driving sales, leadership, problem-solving, or customer service. Explain the situation briefly, your contributions, and results achieved.

14. How do you handle constructive criticism?

View constructive feedback positively as an opportunity to improve. Give an example of implementing manager feedback to improve your performance and showing gratitude for their investment in your growth.

15. Do you have any questions for me?

Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your engagement and interest, such as inquiring about new initiatives, culture, or opportunities for advancement and growth.

Tips for Acing Your Big Lots Interview

Beyond preparing answers to common questions, here are some key tips for nailing your Big Lots interview:

• Research the company’s history, values, mission, and products. Knowledge shows commitment.

• Review the job description and be ready to highlight how your background is a strong match.

• Practice responding to questions out loud to polish your answers. Enlist a friend to conduct a mock interview.

• Prepare examples and stories beforehand to illustrate your top skills and achievements.

• Dress professionally in clean, neat business casual attire.

• Express confidence and enthusiasm through positive body language. Smile, make eye contact, and shake hands firmly.

• Arrive 10 minutes early to show respect and responsibility.

With extensive preparation and a genuine interest in the company, you will ace your Big Lots interview! Best of luck landing your exciting retail role.