20 Ocean State Job Lot Interview Questions and Answers

Ocean State Job Lot is a discount store chain with 127 locations. The company is known for its wide variety of merchandise and its competitive prices. If you’re interviewing for a job at Ocean State Job Lot, you can expect to be asked questions about your customer service skills, your ability to handle difficult situations, and your knowledge of the company’s products and services. To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of sample questions and answers that you can use to practice your responses.

Ocean State Job Lot Interview Process

The interview process at Ocean State Job Lot is generally pretty quick and easy. Most applicants will have a phone interview first, followed by an in-person interview with the store manager. Some positions may require a math assessment or other skills test. Overall, the interview process is fairly straightforward and shouldn’t take more than a few days to complete.

1. What is the difference between customer service and sales?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you understand the differences between these two important roles. They want to know that you can perform both effectively and independently. In your answer, explain what each role entails and how they differ from one another.

Example: “Customer service is about making sure customers have a positive shopping experience. This means being friendly and helpful when they need it most. Sales are more focused on selling products to customers. I believe that customer service should be an integral part of sales because it helps me build relationships with my customers. These relationships help me sell more products in the long run.”

2. Why do you want to work at Ocean State Job Lot?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your interest in working for their company. Use this opportunity to show that you have done research on the organization and understand what it offers its employees.

Example: “I want to work at Ocean State Job Lot because I am passionate about helping customers find great deals. In my last job, I helped customers save money by finding coupons and discounts online. I also love interacting with people, so I would enjoy being a part of an active team where we all support each other.”

3. How would you handle a situation where there was a mix-up with an order that caused it to be shipped late?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle customer service issues and whether you have experience with handling them. Use examples from your past to show that you’re capable of solving problems and helping customers feel satisfied.

Example: “In my last position, I had a situation where an order was shipped late because we were out of stock on one item. The customer called me to ask about the status of their order, so I apologized for the delay and told them it would be arriving in two days. They seemed disappointed but understood. Two days later, they received their order and left us a five-star review.”

4. Describe a time when you had to deal with an irate or difficult customer, how did you handle it?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle conflict and challenging situations. They want to know that you can remain calm, polite and professional in these situations.

Example: “I once had a customer who was upset because they couldn’t find the item they were looking for. I tried my best to listen to their concerns and help them find what they needed. In the end, we discovered that the product they were looking for wasn’t carried at our store anymore. I apologized for any inconvenience and offered them a discount on another item.”

5. Do you have any experience working in retail?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your retail experience. If you have previous experience working in retail, share what you learned from the job and how it can help you succeed at Ocean State Job Lot.

Example: “I worked as a cashier at a local grocery store during my senior year of high school. I learned so much about customer service and interacting with people. It was also a great opportunity to practice math skills and develop my organizational abilities. While working there, I realized that I enjoy helping customers find exactly what they’re looking for.”

6. Do you know what a department head does?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company’s organizational structure. It also shows that you have an interest in learning about the company and its goals. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention what department heads do at Ocean State Job Lot.

Example: “A department head is someone who oversees all aspects of their department. They make sure that employees are doing their jobs well and they’re making smart decisions. Department heads also help managers with any problems they might be having. In my last job as a cashier, I was part of a team led by a department head. She helped us solve many issues we were having with customers.”

7. We pride ourselves on our exceptional level of customer service. What are some ways that you think we can improve this aspect of our business?

Ocean State Job Lot wants to know that you are passionate about customer service and want to help them improve in this area. When answering this question, think of ways you have helped customers before or how you would like to see the company improve its customer service.

Example: “I believe one way Ocean State Job Lot can improve its level of customer service is by training all employees on the best practices for helping customers. I’ve worked at other companies where we had a dedicated training day each week where we learned new skills and techniques for interacting with customers. This helped me learn more about the products we sold and gave me ideas for different ways I could help customers.”

8. Tell me about a time when you worked as part of a team.

Teamwork is an important skill to have in any job, and employers ask this question to see if you can work well with others. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your communication skills and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “In my last position as a cashier at a local grocery store, I worked alongside two other cashiers. We had to communicate often to ensure we were all scanning items correctly and helping customers at the same time. It was also important that we kept our lines moving so there wasn’t a long wait for people to check out. I always made sure to let them know when I needed help or had questions.”

9. If I were to ask your previous manager to describe your work ethic, what would they say?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s work ethic and how they interact with their current or previous manager. It can also be an opportunity for you to get feedback from your employee on what it was like working with this person.

Example: “I would hope that my manager would say I am a hard worker who always does my best to meet deadlines, stay organized and exceed expectations. I have always strived to do my job well and make sure my manager knows I appreciate the opportunities she has given me.”

10. Give an example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous jobs or describe a time you helped someone solve a problem.

Example: “At my last job, I had a customer who was upset because they couldn’t find the item they were looking for. After asking them some questions, I found out that they were looking for a specific brand of product and we didn’t carry it in our store. Instead of telling them we didn’t have what they wanted, I offered to order the product for them and gave them a discount on their purchase. They were happy with the solution and came back to the store to buy other products.”

11. Can you tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential employer’s values. It can also help you determine if the company has any specific expectations for customer service. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of an example that relates to the job description and highlights your skills.

Example: “When I was working at my previous job, I had a customer who came in looking for a certain type of toy. Unfortunately, we didn’t have what they were looking for in stock. Instead of just telling them we couldn’t find it, I offered to call other stores in the area to see if they had it. After calling several locations, I found one store with the item in stock. I drove there immediately and bought the item so I could bring it back to the customer.”

12. Provide an example of a time when you assisted someone who had no idea what they wanted.

This question is a great way to show your customer service skills. It also helps the interviewer understand how you can help customers who are unsure of what they want or need.

Example: “I had a customer once who came into my store looking for a specific item, but he didn’t know exactly what it was called. I asked him questions about the product and eventually figured out that he needed a new mouse for his computer. He was so grateful that I helped him find what he needed.”

13. What qualities make a good store manager?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your management style and how you would apply it in their organization. When answering, think of the qualities that helped you succeed as a manager in previous roles. Consider mentioning skills like communication, problem-solving and leadership.

Example: “A good store manager is someone who can motivate employees while also being approachable. I believe managers should be able to listen to employee concerns and help them find solutions. A great manager is also someone who can lead by example and inspire others to do better work. In my last role, I was promoted to assistant manager because of my ability to motivate my team members.”

14. What type of supervisor style do you prefer to work under?

This question is designed to help the interviewer determine if you would be a good fit for their company culture. It’s important to show that you can work well with others and adapt to different management styles.

Example: “I prefer working under a supervisor who gives me clear instructions, but also allows me to make my own decisions when I’m on the sales floor. I find that this type of leadership style helps me feel more confident in my job performance while still allowing me to learn from my mistakes. In my last position, my manager was very hands-off, which allowed me to develop my skills as an employee.”

15. In your opinion, what makes a successful leader?

This question can help interviewers understand your leadership skills and how you would apply them to a management position. Use examples from your past experience or discuss what qualities you think make a good leader.

Example: “A successful leader is someone who can motivate their team members while also making sure they’re meeting the company’s goals. I believe that leaders should be approachable, so employees feel comfortable coming to them with questions or concerns. In my last role as an assistant manager, I was promoted to lead several departments when my supervisor left for maternity leave. I made it a point to meet with each employee in their department at least once a week to check in on their progress and offer support.”

16. What has been your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleague and their career path. It’s also an opportunity for you to share something that makes you proud, which can help the interviewer get to know you better.

Example: “My biggest accomplishment so far has been my promotion from cashier to sales associate at my previous job. I was working hard to prove myself as a valuable employee, and when they offered me the position, it felt like all of my hard work had paid off. I’m hoping this position will be another step in my career where I can continue to grow.”

17. What are some of your long term goals?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a plan for your career. They want to know that you are motivated and driven, so they can be sure you will work hard in their company. When answering this question, make sure you show them how you plan to grow with the company.

Example: “I would like to become an assistant manager within five years. I am currently taking classes online to get my degree in business management, which is one of the requirements for promotion. In addition to getting promoted, I also hope to open my own discount store someday.”

18. What do you look for when choosing a company to work for?

This question can help the interviewer understand what motivates you to take a job. It also helps them see if your values align with those of Ocean State Job Lot. Your answer should include things like salary, benefits and work culture.

Example: “I look for a company that offers competitive pay, good benefits and a friendly work environment. I’ve found that these three factors are essential in making me feel motivated and happy at my job. I’m excited to learn more about how Ocean State Job Lot provides these things.”

19. When was the last time you had conflict with a coworker, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to learn more about how you handle conflict and your interpersonal skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the steps you took to resolve the conflict and what you learned from the experience.

Example: “I had a coworker who was always late for work. I tried talking to them about it several times but they didn’t seem to care. Eventually, I talked to our manager about the situation and we decided that if my coworker was late again, they would have to leave their position. Sure enough, they were late again two days later. Our manager spoke with them and they agreed to change their behavior.”

20. Are you prepared to adhere to all safety measures put in place by the company?

Ocean State Job Lot is committed to the safety of its employees and customers. The company wants to ensure that all new hires are prepared to follow all safety measures, including those related to cash handling, customer service and inventory management. When answering this question, make sure you emphasize your commitment to following procedures and rules.

Example: “I am very aware of my responsibility as an employee to adhere to all safety measures put in place by Ocean State Job Lot. I understand that if I break any safety protocols, it could result in disciplinary action or termination. As a responsible individual, I take these types of commitments seriously and would never want to jeopardize my career for something so trivial.”