The store manager is a critical position for an employer to fill. Individuals in this position do not only fulfill a specific set of duties, but they also oversee the efforts of others and therefore play a strong part in determining the success or failure of the store. Considering this, it is easy to understand why many interviewers will be very meticulous with the questions that they ask and the type of answers that they are looking for.
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Make sure that you give yourself your best chance by becoming familiar with these common store manager questions. You'll also find guidance on how to answer the questions.
Common Store Manager Interview Questions
1. How do you overcome objections when selling a product?
There are a few common objections that individuals face when trying to sell products to consumers. Some of the main objections include:
- Price: The consumers think it is too high or low.
- Need: The consumer does not foresee a need for the product.
- Value: The consumer does not recognize the quality of the item.
To sell the customer on the product you must be able to successfully address these concerns and any others. Most importantly, you must be able to effectively communicate with customers to determine and address their particular objections.
In answering this question, express the strongest objections that you have faced when selling products to customers and detail how you have overcome them. Drive your answer home by sharing a brief, related instance where you closed the sale.
2. How did you sell XYZ Product in the past?
This question is similar to the previous question. However, it is more targeted and speaks to a specific product. Even if you have strong sales experience, your interviewer will want to know that you have a plan for successfully selling their main products.
As such, when answering this question you will want to detail your method for selling the specific product mentioned. If you have more than one method, mention them; this shows versatility and preparation, which the interviewer will appreciate. You will want to share an example here as well.
3. How would you handle an employee struggling to meet sales goals?
As a manager, you are responsible for the overall success of your store, so being able to motivate and assist other employees is a critical function. In answering this question, you will want to share a step-by-step process that you would follow when evaluating then assisting an employee to bring them up to par.
This is also a great time to highlight your knowledge of effective sales techniques and your ability to teach them to others. Support your answer with a strong example of how you have assisted employees in the past with meeting company goals, even if you were not in a management position.
4. What would you do in a situation where you have an understaffed shift?
This is another situation where strong problem-solving skills are needed. Within store management, there are certain situations that you are bound to face at some point, and being understaffed is one of them. Employers want to know that you will be able to properly handle such a situation.
In answering this question, provide a detailed course of action that you would take to try to get the store properly staffed as quickly as possible, ending with your willingness to cover the shift if need be. This showcases your leadership abilities, which interviewers are looking for.
By understanding the true purpose behind a question, you can be sure to provide the best possible answer. There are a number of ways that you can formulate your answer, but you want to make sure that you address the key concerns that are being brought up with the line of questioning. Become familiar with the aforementioned store manager interview questions, and you will be well on your way to securing the position you desire.
