Ace Your Gordmans Interview: The Top 15 Questions and How to Answer Them Like a Pro

Interviewing for a job at Gordmans can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience As an off-price retail chain operating over 100 stores across the Midwest and Southeast regions, Gordmans receives numerous applications for their open positions Standing out from the crowd and wowing the interviewers is key to landing your dream role.

In this comprehensive guide I’ll provide insight into Gordmans’ interview process and share the top 15 commonly asked questions along with proven strategies to help you craft winning responses. With the right preparation you’ll walk into that interview room feeling confident and ready to showcase your skills. Let’s get started!

Overview of the Gordmans Interview Process

The Gordmans interview process tends to be relatively laid-back and conversational. Initial phone screenings aim to verify basic qualifications before in-person interviews are scheduled. In-person interviews are typically one-on-one and held at the store location you applied to. Some roles may require a second or even third interview before selections are made.

Interviews last about 30-45 minutes on average and are conducted by store managers or department heads. Questions focus on assessing your customer service skills, retail experience, availability, teamwork, integrity, and overall fit with the company culture. Situational questions are commonly asked to gauge critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Some helpful tips for acing your Gordmans interview:

• Research the company, store location, and role thoroughly beforehand
• Review commonly asked questions and practice responses
• Prepare examples that highlight your skills and experience
• Dress professionally in business casual attire
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early and be polite to everyone you interact with
• Maintain good eye contact and enthusiastic body language
• Ask thoughtful questions to show interest in the role

With preparation and a positive attitude, you’ll be ready to succeed! Now let’s get into the top questions you’re likely to encounter:

The Top 15 Gordmans Interview Questions and Answers

1. Why do you want to work for Gordmans?

This opening question allows you to demonstrate your passion for the company and the role. Interviewers want to hire candidates who are truly excited to join the Gordmans team.

Example response: I’m really impressed by Gordmans’ commitment to providing name-brand merchandise at incredibly low prices. I love the treasure hunt shopping atmosphere you create in stores and how you make buying fun for the whole family. Gordmans’ values around serving local communities also resonate with me. I was drawn to this opportunity because I’m passionate about delivering excellent customer experiences and want to grow my retail career with a company that prides itself on offering value. I believe my skills would be a great fit to help drive success at this location.

2. What makes you a strong fit for this position?

Use this opportunity to highlight how your background and competencies align with the role’s requirements. Share relevant examples.

Example response: With over three years of experience as a retail sales associate, I’ve developed expertise in providing personalized service, driving sales, and resolving customer issues. Your assistant manager role requires strong customer service skills and product knowledge, which I have demonstrated in my previous position. For instance, I utilized my knowledge of our loyalty program and popular products to make recommendations that increased basket size by 18% over three months. I also have experience handling cash and inventory controls, scheduling staff, and implementing visual merchandising strategies to boost sales. My background has prepared me well for this role’s requirements, and I’m excited to apply my skills to help exceed sales goals.

3. How would you handle an angry or dissatisfied customer?

Retail employees regularly encounter difficult customers. This question tests your problem-solving skills and composure under pressure.

Example response: When facing an angry or dissatisfied customer, the first thing I do is listen attentively to understand their concerns. I ask clarifying questions if needed to get all the relevant details. Next, I calmly apologize for any inconvenience and assure the customer I will do my best to resolve the issue to their satisfaction. If I need help finding a solution, I will involve a supervisor while keeping the customer informed. However, I always look for ways I can independently fix the problem, such as replacing damaged merchandise or locating a desired item. Throughout the interaction, I maintain a polite and patient tone, recognizing that the customer’s frustration is not personal. My goal is to turn them into a satisfied patron who will return again.

4. Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service. What was the situation and how did you handle it?

Real-life examples are invaluable for illustrating your customer service skills. Share a story that highlights your poise, empathy and problem-solving.

Example response: One busy Saturday, a customer approached me looking for an item we were unfortunately out of stock on. I could tell she was in a rush and upset that the product wasn’t available. Recognizing her frustration, I calmly let her know I would be happy to check our inventory system to see if another nearby store had it in stock. I then called the other location, verified availability and explained that I would put the item on hold under her name for pick-up. The customer was very relieved and appreciative that I went above and beyond to find a solution, thanking me for the excellent service. Moments like these make me proud to work in retail.

5. How would you motivate a disengaged staff member who lacks motivation?

Retail managers must know how to inspire unenthusiastic employees. Discuss your mentoring skills and high emotional intelligence.

Example response: I recognize the importance of keeping staff members engaged since it directly impacts customer satisfaction. If I noticed disengagement, I would first speak to the employee privately to understand what’s causing it. I would ask open-ended questions, listen actively and try determining if there are any obstacles preventing them from performing at their best. Next, I would explain the positive impact even small improvements in their attitude could have on store results and make them feel valued. If there are any areas of the job I could make more interesting, I would tailor responsibilities to re-engage them. I would also set clear expectations and provide encouragement through frequent feedback. Building an open, supportive relationship is vital for motivating disengaged staff. My goal would be helping them feel appreciated and fulfilled in their role.

6. How do you typically deal with pressure or stressful situations on the job?

Retail employees face stress regularly, so interviewers want to know you can keep your cool. Discuss your stress management tactics.

Example response: In my experience, the retail environment can often be stressful when you’re handling impatient customers, juggling tasks, and dealing with outages or other issues. When faced with pressure, I take a step back to breathe and clear my head before responding. I prioritize what needs immediate attention and tackle those pressing issues first before moving to lesser concerns. If I feel particularly overwhelmed, I will walk away briefly to collect myself or ask a colleague for help. Having a sense of humor and maintaining perspective on what’s within my control helps as well. Most importantly, I will never let the stress negatively impact the customer. Staying focused on providing excellent service is my number one priority no matter the situation.

7. How do you stay up-to-date on current trends and styles to assist customers?

Working in retail requires keeping current on the latest fashions and trends. Discuss how you stay knowledgeable.

Example response: Since styles are constantly evolving in the retail industry, I make it a priority to stay updated through a few key methods. I regularly browse fashion websites, social media and blogs to see upcoming trends. When visiting stores, I pay attention to the latest styles and products. I also leverage resources like industry magazines and Gordmans’ own marketing materials. Most importantly, I listen actively to customers to learn what fashion and styles excite them right now. Combining this external research with insights I gain directly from interacting with shoppers helps me provide relevant advice tailored to each customer’s unique tastes and preferences.

8. Tell me about a time you had to complete multiple tasks quickly while maintaining attention to detail. How did you handle it?

Multitasking is a regular duty in busy retail settings. Provide an example that highlights your organizational skills.

Example response: In my most recent role, I would often handle multiple customer requests while also managing admin tasks and restocking shelves, all while maintaining high standards. When juggling these duties, I always prioritized anything customer-facing first. For administrative or restocking tasks, I used strategies like creating checklists and setting reminders to keep organized. When possible, I would ask colleagues to assist with any urgent items I couldn’t get to right away. While remaining flexible to sudden requests, I also planned my approach in advance as much as possible. This involved analyzing store traffic patterns to anticipate the busiest times and scheduling more focused tasks during slower periods when I could. With an organized, thoughtful approach I was able to successfully complete all my assigned duties efficiently while providing attentive service.

9. Tell me about a time you had to work collaboratively with others to accomplish an objective. What was your role?

Collaboration and teamwork are essential retail skills. Discuss a specific example that demonstrates competencies like communication, leadership, and conflict resolution.

Example response: As a