20 Kmart Interview Questions and Answers

Kmart is a large retail store that sells discounted merchandise. Kmart is looking for employees who are customer service oriented, have good communication skills, and are able to work in a fast-paced environment.

If you are interviewing for a job at Kmart, you can expect to be asked questions about your customer service skills, your ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and your ability to communicate effectively.

Kmart Interview Process

The interview process at Kmart is generally pretty straightforward and easy. Most of the time, you will be interviewed by a store manager or HR representative. They will ask you basic questions about your experience and why you want to work at Kmart. Sometimes, you may be asked to complete a worksheet with scenarios. Overall, the interview process is relatively quick and easy.

1. Are you comfortable handling money and operating a cash register?

This question is a good way to determine if you have the skills and experience needed for this position. If you are not comfortable with handling money or operating a cash register, it’s important to let the interviewer know that you’re willing to learn these skills.

Example: “I’ve worked in retail before, so I’m familiar with how to operate a cash register. However, I am always open to learning new things. I would be happy to take any training courses necessary to help me become more proficient at using the cash register.”

2. What would you do if a customer asked for help but you were currently busy with another customer?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your time and manage multiple tasks. Showcase your ability to multitask by explaining a situation where you helped two customers at once, or explain that you would politely ask one of them to wait until you were free.

Example: “If I was helping another customer when a new person asked for my assistance, I would politely tell them that I could assist them in just a few minutes. This way, they know I’m aware of their need but also reassured that I will be able to help them soon.”

3. How would you handle an upset customer?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle stressful situations and whether you have customer service skills. Use examples from your previous experience to show that you’re a problem solver who’s willing to go above and beyond for customers.

Example: “I once had a customer come into my store looking for a specific item, but we didn’t have it in stock. I offered to order the item for them so they could get it as soon as possible. They were very happy with this solution and even came back later to tell me how much they liked the product. This is an example of how I would handle an upset customer by going above and beyond to make sure they leave satisfied.”

4. Tell me about your experience working in retail.

This question is a great way to learn about your potential new employer’s expectations. It also allows you to show the interviewer that you have experience working in retail and can adapt to their specific store.

Example: “I worked at my local Kmart for three years, where I started as a cashier and eventually became a customer service associate. In this role, I learned how to interact with customers of all ages and personalities. I also gained valuable skills like problem-solving and conflict resolution. These skills helped me become an assistant manager within two years.”

5. Describe your previous work experience as it relates to this position.

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you have relevant experience for this position. When answering, it’s important to highlight your skills and how they can benefit Kmart.

Example: “I’ve worked in retail since I was 16 years old, so I’m used to working with customers of all ages. In my last job as a cashier at Target, I learned how to work quickly while still maintaining accuracy. This skill has helped me become more efficient when performing tasks like scanning items or entering information into a computer.”

6. Do you have any experience working in a team environment?

Working in a team environment is an important part of working at Kmart. The company values teamwork and collaboration, so it’s likely that you’ll be asked about your experience with this during the interview process. If you have previous work experience, use examples from your past to show how you worked well as a team member. If you don’t have any prior work experience, talk about your experiences in school or extracurricular activities where you had to collaborate with others.

Example: “In my last job, I was responsible for managing social media accounts for our company. My coworkers and I would meet once a week to discuss what we were posting on each account and how we could improve our strategies. We also used Slack to communicate with one another throughout the day. This helped us stay organized and productive.”

7. Can you tell us about a time when you had to go above and beyond for a customer?

This question is a great way to show your customer service skills and how you can help others. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the positive outcome of your actions.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a customer who came in looking for a specific item. We didn’t have any left in stock, so I offered to call other stores within a 50-mile radius to see if they had any available. After calling several locations, I found one that still had some in stock. I drove there immediately and purchased all of their remaining inventory so our customer could get what they needed.”

8. How do you think Kmart can improve its customer service?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would improve customer service at Kmart. Use examples from your experience to explain what you would do to make improvements in this area.

Example: “I think that one way Kmart could improve its customer service is by hiring more employees who are knowledgeable about the products they’re selling. I’ve worked for retail stores where we had a high turnover rate, which meant there were often new employees working with customers. This made it difficult for me to answer questions about specific products because many of my coworkers didn’t know much about them either. I think having more experienced employees and training programs in place would help solve this problem.”

9. Have you ever been part of a team that was not successful? Why did the team fail?

This question is a great way to learn more about how you respond to failure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to talk about a time when you were part of a team that failed and what you learned from the experience.

Example: “I was once on a team at my previous job where we had a goal to increase sales by 10% in one month. We all worked hard to achieve our goal, but unfortunately, we did not meet it. After failing to reach our goal, I asked my manager for feedback so I could improve my performance next time. My manager told me that I needed to work harder and take initiative instead of waiting for others to tell me what to do.”

10. Why is teamwork important in this role?

Teamwork is an important skill to have in any position, but it’s especially vital for retail positions. Team members must work together to ensure customers are satisfied and that the store runs smoothly. When answering this question, explain how you’ve used teamwork skills in previous roles.

Example: “In my last role as a cashier at a grocery store, I worked with a team of other cashiers who were responsible for checking out customers. We had to communicate with each other when we needed help or if there was a problem. For example, one time a customer asked me for a price check on a specific item. I told my coworker about the request so she could assist another customer while I checked the price.”

11. If hired, what would be your approach to helping customers find items they need?

This question helps the interviewer understand how you would approach your work and interact with customers. Showcase your customer service skills by explaining how you would help customers find items, answer their questions and resolve any issues they have while shopping at Kmart.

Example: “I believe that it’s important to listen to what a customer is looking for before suggesting other options. I also think it’s helpful to know which departments certain items are in so I can direct them there if needed. If I’m unsure of where an item is located, I will ask another employee or manager for assistance.”

12. How would you deal with an unmotivated teammate?

Kmart wants to know how you’ll handle difficult situations at work. This question is an opportunity for you to show your problem-solving skills and ability to lead a team.

Example: “I would first try to understand why my teammate isn’t motivated. I’d ask them what they need from me or the company to feel more inspired. If they’re lacking in resources, like training or equipment, I’d speak with my manager about getting those things for them. If they just don’t enjoy their job, I’d encourage them to find something that makes them happier.”

13. Which days are you available to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the hours they need. Before your interview, check out the company’s schedule and see if it matches up with yours. If there is a discrepancy, explain why you can work those hours.

Example: “I am available to work any day of the week. I have noticed that Kmart has more evening shifts than morning ones, but I prefer working in the mornings. However, I would be happy to switch my availability to accommodate your needs.”

14. What qualities do you think make an excellent sales associate or cashier?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what skills you have that could be beneficial for this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific quality or two and give an example of how you’ve used that quality in your previous roles.

Example: “I think excellent sales associates are friendly and outgoing people who enjoy helping others find exactly what they’re looking for. I also think cashiers should be organized individuals who pay attention to detail and work quickly but accurately. In my last job as a cashier, I was always sure to greet customers with a smile and make them feel welcome. I would often ask if there was anything else I could do to assist them while checking out.”

15. Where else have you applied for a job recently?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your job search. They want to know if you are actively looking for a new position and how many jobs you’re applying for at once. When answering, be honest about where else you’ve applied. If you haven’t applied anywhere else, explain that you’re excited about the opportunity with Kmart and hope to stay here long-term.

Example: “I’m currently applying for positions at other retail stores in my area. I have also applied for a few administrative assistant positions online. I am hoping to find a career that will allow me to use my skills as an office manager while still allowing me to work from home.”

16. Do you prefer working alone or on a team? Why?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you might fit into their organization. If you’re interviewing for a management position, your answer may be more important because it can show whether you prefer to delegate tasks or if you enjoy doing them yourself.

Example: “I find that I’m most productive when working alone. However, I also know that sometimes teamwork is necessary and I am happy to work with others on projects. In my last role, I worked as an accountant and often had to collaborate with other team members to solve problems. I found this experience to be beneficial in developing my communication skills.”

17. What are some of your favorite products at Kmart?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and see if your interests align with Kmart’s products. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few of your favorite products that are also sold at Kmart.

Example: “I love shopping for home goods at Kmart because they have so many great deals on furniture and appliances. I recently bought a new couch from them, and I couldn’t believe how affordable it was. Another thing I like about Kmart is their clothing selection. They always have really cute clothes for my daughter, and I can usually find something in her size.”

18. Give an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question is a great way to show your customer service skills and how you can help others. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the positive impact of your actions on the customer or company.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a customer who came in every week looking for a specific type of shoe. After several weeks of searching, we were unable to find the shoes she was looking for. Instead of giving up, I asked her what color they were so that I could search online. A few days later, I found the shoes she was looking for and called her to let her know. She was very happy with our service and returned to the store.”

19. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be honest. Employers want to know what your greatest strengths are so they can use them when you’re on the job. They also want to know about any weaknesses that you’re actively working to improve.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I am always willing to help out a coworker or customer, and I enjoy being part of a team. My weakness is that sometimes I get overwhelmed by large projects. To overcome this, I make sure to break down larger tasks into smaller ones so I can stay organized.”

20. Why do you want to work for Kmart?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in working at Kmart. They want to know that you are passionate about their company and its mission. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention one or two things that drew you to apply for this position.

Example: “I applied for this position because I am very interested in retail work. I have always loved shopping at Kmart because of the wide variety of products they sell. I also love how affordable many of these products are. Working here would allow me to use my customer service skills while helping customers find exactly what they need.”