25 Dollar General Store Manager Interview Questions and Answers

Dollar General is one of the nation’s largest retailers, and it’s always on the lookout for talented and driven store managers. If you’re looking to take the next step in your retail career, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some tough questions in your interview.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to answer common store manager interview questions. You’ll also find a list of sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you familiar with the Dollar General brand and mission statement?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are familiar with the company’s brand and values. This can be an indication of how well you will fit in with their team, as Dollar General is a company that prides itself on its customer service and community involvement. In your answer, try to show that you understand what makes Dollar General unique from other retailers.

Example: “Absolutely. I have been a Dollar General Store Manager for the past five years and am very familiar with their brand and mission statement. The Dollar General brand is all about providing customers with quality products at an affordable price, while also delivering excellent customer service. Their mission statement emphasizes their commitment to creating value for their customers, employees, and shareholders. As a store manager, it has always been my goal to ensure that these values are upheld in our store. I strive to provide customers with the best possible shopping experience by offering them great prices on quality products and ensuring they receive friendly, helpful customer service. In addition, I work hard to create a positive working environment for my team members, so that everyone can be successful and reach their full potential.”

2. What are some of the most important skills you possess as a Dollar General store manager?

This question is an opportunity to highlight your skills and abilities as a manager. It’s important to show the interviewer that you have the necessary skills for this position, especially if it’s your first management role. When answering this question, think about what skills you’ve developed over time or which ones are most relevant to this job.

Example: “As a Dollar General store manager, I possess a variety of important skills that are essential for success. First and foremost, I have excellent customer service skills. I understand the importance of providing customers with an enjoyable shopping experience, and I strive to ensure that every customer leaves our store feeling satisfied.

I also have strong organizational and time management skills. I am able to effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously while ensuring that all deadlines are met. This allows me to maximize efficiency in the store and keep operations running smoothly.

Additionally, I have great problem-solving abilities. I am able to quickly identify issues and develop solutions that are both effective and cost-efficient. My ability to think on my feet has been invaluable when it comes to resolving customer complaints or addressing unexpected challenges.”

3. How would you handle an employee who consistently showed up late for work?

This question can help the interviewer assess your management style and how you would handle a challenging situation. In your answer, try to show that you are willing to hold employees accountable for their actions while also encouraging them to improve.

Example: “If I had an employee who was consistently showing up late for work, my first step would be to have a conversation with them. During this conversation, I would explain the importance of punctuality and how it affects the store’s operations. I would also discuss any potential consequences that could result from continued lateness.

After our initial conversation, I would continue to monitor their attendance closely. If they were still arriving late, I would take further disciplinary action such as issuing verbal warnings or written reprimands. Depending on the severity of the situation, I may even consider suspending or terminating the employee if necessary.”

4. What is your experience with inventory management?

Dollar General is a discount retailer, so it’s important for store managers to be able to keep track of inventory and ensure they’re ordering enough products to meet customer demand. Your answer should show the interviewer that you have experience with inventory management software and can use it effectively. If you don’t have any specific experience, you can talk about your ability to learn new systems quickly.

Example: “I have extensive experience with inventory management. During my time as a Dollar General Store Manager, I was responsible for managing the store’s entire inventory. This included ordering and receiving new products, tracking sales trends, and ensuring that all items were properly stocked on the shelves. I also worked closely with vendors to ensure that we had the best selection of products available at competitive prices.

In addition, I developed an efficient system for tracking our inventory levels and identifying any discrepancies between what was ordered and what was received. This allowed us to quickly identify and address any issues before they became major problems. Finally, I regularly conducted physical inventories to make sure that our records matched up with actual stock levels.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to resolve a conflict between two of your employees.

As a manager, you may need to resolve conflicts between your employees from time to time. This question allows the interviewer to assess how you handle interpersonal conflict and whether you can use your problem-solving skills to find solutions that benefit everyone involved.

Example: “I have had to resolve conflicts between employees several times during my tenure as a Dollar General Store Manager. One example that stands out was when two of my employees were having a disagreement about how to stock the shelves.

The first employee wanted to organize the shelves by product type, while the second employee wanted to organize them alphabetically. After listening to each side’s perspective and understanding their reasoning, I proposed a compromise solution. We would organize the shelves in a hybrid style, with some sections organized by product type and others organized alphabetically. This allowed both employees to feel heard and respected, and it also provided an efficient way to keep the shelves organized.

Ultimately, this conflict resolution approach worked well for everyone involved. My employees felt like they had been listened to and appreciated, and the store benefited from having an orderly and easy-to-navigate shelf system. It was a great reminder of the importance of communication and compromise in resolving workplace disputes.”

6. If you could change anything about the Dollar General retail model, what would it be?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your commitment to Dollar General’s retail model. Your answer should show that you are passionate about working at Dollar General and that you understand what makes it unique as a retailer.

Example: “If I could change anything about the Dollar General retail model, it would be to focus on creating a more customer-centric experience. As a Store Manager, I understand that customers are the lifeblood of any business and strive to ensure they have an enjoyable shopping experience. To do this, I believe in investing in training for employees so they can provide excellent customer service. This includes teaching them how to effectively communicate with customers, answer questions, and resolve any issues.

I also think it’s important to create a welcoming atmosphere in the store. This means making sure the store is clean and organized, stocking shelves regularly, and providing helpful signage throughout the store. Finally, I believe it’s essential to stay up to date on the latest trends in retailing and technology to make sure we’re offering our customers the best possible shopping experience.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that one of your employees was stealing from the store?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would handle a difficult situation. Use your answer to show that you are willing to take action when necessary and hold your employees accountable for their actions.

Example: “If I noticed that one of my employees was stealing from the store, I would take immediate action. First, I would speak to the employee in private and explain why their behavior is unacceptable and how it affects the store’s bottom line. I would also make sure they understand the consequences if they continue to steal. If necessary, I would involve the local authorities.

At the same time, I would review our security procedures to ensure that this type of incident does not happen again. This could include implementing new policies or technologies such as surveillance cameras or a cash register system with built-in theft prevention features. Finally, I would work with my team to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable speaking up about any suspicious activity.”

8. How well do you know the local area where you plan to operate your store?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience in the area where you plan to open your store. They want to know that you are familiar with the local community and can provide excellent customer service to its residents. In your answer, explain how you researched the area before applying for the position. Explain what you learned about the community and why it’s important to you to serve them as a Dollar General Store Manager.

Example: “I have extensive knowledge of the local area where I plan to operate my store. Having worked in retail for over 10 years, I am familiar with the demographics and needs of the community. I understand what products are popular among customers and how to best serve them. I also have a good understanding of the competition in the area and know how to differentiate our store from others. Finally, I’m well-versed in local regulations and laws that may affect the operation of the store.”

9. Do you have any experience with advertising and marketing?

Dollar General is a discount retailer that relies on advertising and marketing to attract customers. The company wants store managers who can create effective advertisements, develop marketing strategies and implement them in their stores. Your answer should show the interviewer you have experience with these processes and how they helped your previous employer’s business.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience with advertising and marketing. During my time as a Dollar General Store Manager, I was responsible for creating and executing effective promotional campaigns to drive sales in the store. This included developing strategies for both traditional and digital media outlets such as radio, television, print, and social media. I also worked closely with vendors to ensure that our promotions were reaching the right audiences and producing results.

I am confident in my ability to create successful promotional campaigns and understand how to use different channels to reach customers. My experience has taught me how to analyze data and adjust strategies accordingly to maximize ROI. I am also familiar with budgeting and cost-effectiveness when it comes to marketing initiatives. Finally, I’m well-versed in customer service and know how to connect with shoppers to make sure they are satisfied with their experiences at our store.”

10. When planning your weekly sales, how do you decide which items to mark down?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to understand how you plan your work schedule and organize the store’s inventory. Use your answer to highlight your time management skills, ability to prioritize tasks and attention to detail.

Example: “When planning my weekly sales, I take a number of factors into consideration. First, I review the store’s inventory and identify items that have been on the shelves for an extended period of time or are not selling as well as expected. Then, I consider what types of markdowns will be most effective in driving customer traffic to the store. For example, if there is a certain item that has not sold well, I may decide to offer it at a discounted price to attract more customers. Finally, I look at current trends in the market and determine which items would benefit from being marked down. By taking all these factors into account, I am able to create a plan that maximizes profits while also providing customers with great deals.”

11. We want to improve our customer service scores. What would you do to improve our customer satisfaction rates?

Customer service is a major part of working at Dollar General. The company wants to ensure that its employees are providing the best possible customer experience, and this question helps interviewers assess your customer service skills. In your answer, explain how you would improve customer satisfaction rates in your store.

Example: “I understand the importance of customer service and satisfaction, and I have a proven track record of success in this area. At my previous position as Dollar General Store Manager, I implemented several initiatives that improved our customer service scores significantly.

The first step I would take to improve customer satisfaction is to ensure that all employees are properly trained on customer service protocols. This includes teaching them how to greet customers warmly, answer questions accurately, and handle complaints professionally. I would also encourage employees to go above and beyond when assisting customers, such as offering helpful advice or suggesting additional products they may be interested in.

In addition, I would focus on creating an inviting atmosphere for customers. This could include playing music, displaying attractive signage, and ensuring shelves are well-stocked with merchandise. Finally, I would implement regular feedback surveys to gain insight into what customers think about their experience at our store. By taking these steps, I am confident that we can increase our customer service scores and overall customer satisfaction.”

12. Describe your strategy for managing your budget.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your budgeting skills and how you use them in the workplace. Use examples from past experiences to explain how you create a budget, monitor it throughout the month and report any issues or concerns to your supervisor.

Example: “My strategy for managing my budget is to be proactive and organized. I believe in developing a plan that outlines the goals of the store, as well as how much money needs to be allocated towards each area. This allows me to stay on top of expenses and ensure that we are staying within our budget.

I also make sure to review all invoices and receipts carefully before making any payments. This helps me identify potential savings opportunities or areas where we could be more efficient with our spending. Finally, I am always open to suggestions from team members about ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality or customer service.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this Dollar General store manager position?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are qualified for this position. Use examples from your experience and skills to highlight why you would be a great fit for this role.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this Dollar General Store Manager position because of my extensive experience in retail management. I have been a store manager at two different locations, and during that time I was able to successfully increase sales by 20%, while reducing operating costs by 10%. My success is due to my strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and ability to motivate my team.

In addition, I have an excellent understanding of the Dollar General brand and its customer base. I understand what products are popular with customers, how to create effective promotions, and how to manage inventory efficiently. I also have a good working knowledge of POS systems, which allows me to quickly process transactions and ensure accuracy. Finally, I have a proven track record of providing excellent customer service, as evidenced by the numerous positive reviews from customers.”

14. Which inventory management software are you most familiar with?

Dollar General uses a proprietary inventory management software called DG Inventory. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with their company’s specific software and how well you can use it. In your answer, explain which inventory management software you are most familiar with and why. If you don’t have any experience with Dollar General’s system, discuss the systems you do know and what you like about them.

Example: “I am most familiar with the inventory management software called Retail Pro. I have been using this system for the past five years as a Dollar General Store Manager and it has proven to be an invaluable tool in managing store operations. With Retail Pro, I can easily track inventory levels, monitor sales trends, and adjust pricing strategies accordingly. It also allows me to quickly identify any discrepancies between physical stock and what is listed on the system. This helps me ensure that our shelves are always stocked with the right items and that we don’t miss out on potential sales opportunities due to inaccurate information. Furthermore, I have experience training new staff members on how to use the system so they can become proficient users of the software.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of customer service?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your customer service philosophy. They want to know how you would apply it in their store, and they also want to see if you have the same priorities as Dollar General. Your answer should include a specific example of how you prioritize customer service.

Example: “Customer service is an essential part of any retail business, and I believe the most important aspect of customer service is providing a positive experience for each customer. As a Dollar General Store Manager, it’s my job to ensure that every customer who visits our store has a pleasant shopping experience. This means creating a welcoming atmosphere in the store, offering helpful advice when needed, and making sure customers have access to all the products they need. It also involves being proactive in addressing customer complaints or concerns quickly and efficiently. Finally, it’s important to maintain a friendly attitude with customers at all times, as this will help create a loyal customer base. By taking these steps, I can ensure that customers feel valued and appreciated when they shop at our store.”

16. How often should you perform inventory counts?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your knowledge of inventory management. This is an important part of the job, so they want to make sure you have experience with it. In your answer, explain how often you perform counts and what factors influence that frequency.

Example: “Inventory counts should be performed on a regular basis to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the store. As a Dollar General Store Manager, I would recommend conducting an inventory count at least once a month. This will help ensure that we have accurate records of our stock levels and can identify any discrepancies or shortages quickly. Furthermore, it is important to conduct additional inventory counts when new products are added to the shelves or when there are changes in sales trends. By doing so, we can adjust our ordering accordingly and maximize profits. Finally, I believe it is also important to perform random spot checks throughout the month to ensure that all items are properly accounted for.”

17. There is a product that your customers are looking for, but you’re out of stock. What do you do?

This question is a great way to see how you handle customer service. It’s important for the interviewer to know that you will take care of your customers and ensure they leave happy.

Example: “When customers are looking for a product that is out of stock, I take the time to listen and understand their needs. My goal is to provide them with an excellent customer experience while also finding a solution to their problem.

My first step would be to check our inventory system to see if there is any way to get the item in question. If it is not available from our current suppliers, I will reach out to other vendors to see if they have the item in stock. If all else fails, I can offer alternative products or services that may meet the customer’s needs.

I always make sure to keep the customer informed throughout the process so that they know what steps I am taking to find a solution. I believe communication is key when dealing with these types of situations and I strive to ensure that every customer leaves satisfied.”

18. What strategies do you use to motivate and inspire your team?

As a store manager, you need to be able to motivate and inspire your team members. This question helps the interviewer determine if you have experience doing this in the past. Use examples from your previous job or talk about what strategies you would use if you were hired for this position.

Example: “I believe that the key to motivating and inspiring my team is creating a positive work environment. I strive to create an atmosphere of collaboration, trust, and respect between myself and my employees. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and appreciated for their contributions.

To achieve this, I focus on providing clear communication, setting achievable goals, and recognizing individual successes. I also make sure to provide regular feedback so that my team can stay informed about their progress and any areas where they may need improvement. Finally, I encourage open dialogue and allow my team members to express their opinions and ideas. This helps foster creativity and innovation within the workplace.”

19. How would you go about reducing shrinkage in the store?

Shrinkage is the term used for when a store loses money due to theft or other factors. The interviewer wants to know how you would reduce shrinkage in their store and ensure that it doesn’t happen too often. Use your answer to highlight your ability to manage employees, keep track of inventory and prevent losses.

Example: “Reducing shrinkage in the store is an important part of a Dollar General Store Manager’s job. To reduce shrinkage, I would first focus on improving internal controls and processes. This includes implementing regular inventory checks to ensure accuracy, as well as ensuring that all employees are following proper procedures when it comes to receiving and stocking merchandise.

I would also work with my team to create a culture of accountability within the store. This means making sure that everyone understands the importance of preventing theft and loss. We can do this by providing training sessions for our staff on how to properly handle merchandise and keep track of inventory. Finally, I would use data analytics to identify any potential areas of risk or weak spots in our security system. By doing so, we can better understand where we need to make improvements and take proactive steps to prevent future losses.”

20. Describe how you ensure that all company policies are followed.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to enforce company policies and ensure that employees are following the rules. Use examples from past experiences where you helped create a culture of compliance or ensured that all employees were aware of company policies.

Example: “As a Dollar General Store Manager, I take my role in ensuring that all company policies are followed very seriously. I make sure to stay up-to-date on any changes or updates to the policy manual and ensure that all employees understand and adhere to them. I also conduct regular store audits to check for compliance with company policies. During these audits, I review employee performance records, customer feedback surveys, and other data points to identify areas of improvement. Finally, I provide ongoing training and education to my team so they can better understand the importance of following company policies. By taking a proactive approach to policy enforcement, I am confident that I can create an environment where everyone is held accountable and our customers receive the best possible service.”

21. What measures do you take to make sure that the store is always clean and organized?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you prioritize tasks and manage your time. They want to know that you can keep the store clean, organized and ready for customers at all times. In your answer, explain what steps you take to ensure everything is in order and ready for business.

Example: “Cleanliness and organization are essential to running a successful Dollar General store. As the Store Manager, I take several measures to ensure that my store is always clean and organized. First, I create and enforce daily cleaning schedules for all employees. This ensures that everyone is aware of their responsibilities in keeping the store tidy. Second, I make sure to check the shelves and displays regularly to make sure they are neat and orderly. Finally, I have regular inspections with my staff to review the overall condition of the store and address any issues that may arise. These measures help me keep the store looking its best and provide an enjoyable shopping experience for our customers.”

22. Explain how you build relationships with vendors and suppliers.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your communication skills and how you interact with people outside of the store. Use examples from past experiences where you successfully built a relationship with vendors or suppliers, which helped improve your business’s bottom line.

Example: “Building relationships with vendors and suppliers is an important part of my role as a Dollar General Store Manager. I understand that having strong relationships with these partners can help to ensure the success of our store. To achieve this, I focus on communication and collaboration.

I make sure to stay in contact with vendors and suppliers regularly, whether it’s through email or phone calls. This helps me to keep up-to-date on any changes they may have made to their product offerings or pricing, so that I can adjust our store’s inventory accordingly. I also take the time to get to know them personally, which allows us to build trust and better collaborate together.

Additionally, I am always open to feedback from vendors and suppliers. I value their input and use it to improve our store operations. By creating a positive relationship with them, I am able to negotiate better deals for our store and ensure we are getting the best quality products at the most competitive prices.”

23. How would you handle a customer complaint?

As a store manager, you may need to resolve customer complaints. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience with handling customer complaints and how you would respond in such a situation. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to solve the problem for the customer while also maintaining good relationships with them.

Example: “When it comes to customer complaints, I believe in taking a proactive approach. First and foremost, I would listen carefully to the customer to understand their issue and make sure that I am providing them with the best possible solution. From there, I would take ownership of the situation and work diligently to resolve it as quickly as possible.

I have experience in resolving customer complaints both over the phone and in person. In either case, I strive to ensure that the customer feels heard and respected throughout the process. I also keep detailed records of all customer interactions so that I can refer back to them if needed. Finally, I always follow up with customers after an issue has been resolved to make sure they are satisfied with the outcome.”

24. In what ways do you stay up-to-date on changes in retail trends?

The interviewer may ask this question to see how you stay current on industry trends and changes. They want to know that you are committed to learning more about retail, which can help you become a better store manager. In your answer, explain what resources you use to learn about the latest in retail news and information.

Example: “As a Dollar General Store Manager, I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on changes in retail trends. To ensure that I am well informed, I read industry publications and attend conferences and seminars to stay abreast of current developments. I also regularly review customer feedback from our store surveys and use this information to adjust our strategies accordingly. Finally, I keep an open dialogue with my team members so that we can discuss any new ideas or approaches to better serve our customers. By utilizing these methods, I am able to remain knowledgeable about the latest retail trends and make sure that our store is always offering the best possible service.”

25. Describe a time when you had to make an unpopular decision as a manager.

This question can help interviewers understand how you make decisions as a manager and whether you’re willing to take action when needed. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you made a decision that wasn’t popular but was the best choice for your team or company.

Example: “When I first became a store manager at Dollar General, we had an employee who was consistently late to work. This negatively affected their coworkers because they were often understaffed during their shifts. After talking with them about their tardiness multiple times, I realized that there was no way they would change their behavior. So, I decided to fire them so my other employees could have consistent coverage.”

Example: “As a Dollar General Store Manager, I have had to make difficult decisions that were not always popular with my team. One example was when we needed to reduce our staff due to budget constraints. It was an incredibly tough decision to make, as I knew it would affect the livelihoods of some of my employees. However, I also understood that this was necessary in order for us to remain profitable and continue providing quality service to our customers.

I approached the situation by being transparent and honest with my team about the need to reduce staff. I held several meetings to explain why this was necessary and how it would benefit the store in the long run. I also made sure to provide resources to those who were affected, such as job search assistance and career counseling. Although the decision was unpopular at first, I believe that my approach helped to ease the transition and ensure that everyone felt heard and respected.”