25 Personal Shopper Interview Questions and Answers

Do you love fashion? Do you love getting a good deal? Do you love helping people look their best? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a career as a personal shopper may be perfect for you.

Personal shoppers work with clients to find the perfect outfit for any occasion, whether it’s for a job interview, a special event, or simply a day out shopping. They also help clients save money by finding good deals on clothing and accessories.

If you’re interested in becoming a personal shopper, you’ll need to be able to answer questions about your personal style, your knowledge of current fashion trends, and your ability to find good deals on clothing. You may also be asked questions about your customer service skills.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of personal shopper interview questions and answers.

1. Are you good at keeping secrets?

Employers ask this question to make sure you can keep their customers’ shopping habits private. They want to know that you will respect the privacy of their clients and not share any information about them with others. In your answer, explain how you would handle keeping a client’s secrets while also being able to provide excellent customer service.

Example: “Absolutely! I understand the importance of confidentiality when it comes to personal shopping. As a personal shopper, my clients trust me with their private information and preferences. It’s my responsibility to keep that information confidential and secure at all times. I take this very seriously and have never had any issues with keeping secrets. In fact, I pride myself on being able to build strong relationships with my clients based on trust and respect. My ability to maintain discretion is one of the reasons why I’m confident in my skills as a personal shopper.”

2. What are some of your favorite brands and why?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a passion for fashion and can relate your personal style to the brands they carry. When answering, try to mention at least one brand that is carried by the company you’re interviewing with so they can see how well you know their inventory.

Example: “I have a few favorite brands that I enjoy shopping for and wearing. First, I love the classic style of J.Crew. Their timeless pieces are always on trend and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Second, I’m a big fan of Madewell because their clothes are both stylish and comfortable. Third, I appreciate the quality craftsmanship of Ralph Lauren. They make clothing that is designed to last and look great no matter what the season. Finally, I like Zara for its modern take on fashion trends. The styles they offer are always fresh and unique.”

3. How do you keep up with the latest trends in fashion?

Employers ask this question to see if you’re up-to-date with the latest fashion trends. They want to make sure that you can help their customers find clothing and accessories that are fashionable and in style. In your answer, explain how you stay current on what’s new in fashion. Share a few ways you keep yourself informed about the latest styles and brands.

Example: “Keeping up with the latest trends in fashion is an important part of being a successful personal shopper. I stay informed by reading industry publications and blogs, following influencers on social media, and attending trade shows and events. I also make sure to keep my finger on the pulse of current street style trends by visiting popular shopping districts and observing what people are wearing. Finally, I use my own knowledge and experience to interpret these trends and create looks that will be attractive to my clients. By staying abreast of the latest developments in fashion, I can ensure that my clients always look their best.”

4. What is your favorite part of being a personal shopper?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and what you enjoy doing. They want to make sure that the job is a good fit for you, so they are looking for someone who enjoys helping customers find items and solve problems. Your answer should include something specific about the job that you like, such as working with different people or finding great deals.

Example: “My favorite part of being a personal shopper is the opportunity to help people find exactly what they need. I take great pride in finding the perfect items for my clients, whether it’s clothing, accessories, or home goods. I enjoy getting to know each client and understanding their individual style and preferences so that I can provide them with the best possible shopping experience.

I also love the challenge of staying up-to-date on the latest trends and products. It’s important to me to be able to offer my clients the most current fashion and lifestyle options available. My research skills allow me to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that my clients are always looking their best.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you helped a client find something they loved that they would not have found on their own.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your skills and expertise to benefit clients. Use examples from previous work experience or describe a time when you helped a friend find something they loved that they would not have found on their own.

Example: “I recently had a client who was looking for the perfect dress to wear to her daughter’s wedding. She wanted something that would be stylish and elegant, but also comfortable enough to dance in all night. After listening to her needs, I suggested a few options from different stores. However, none of them seemed quite right.

That’s when I decided to take a more creative approach. I scoured online shops and second-hand stores until I found the perfect dress: an off-the-shoulder design with intricate lace detailing. My client was thrilled with the find and couldn’t believe she hadn’t thought of it herself. She said it was exactly what she was looking for and felt beautiful wearing it on the big day.

This experience showed me how important it is to think outside the box when helping clients find what they need. It’s not always about finding the most popular or well-known items; sometimes it’s about being creative and searching for unique pieces that will make a lasting impression.”

6. If a client wanted to try something new, how would you suggest they change their look?

This question can help interviewers understand your personal shopping skills and how you interact with clients. Use examples from past experiences to show the interviewer that you know what looks good on different body types and ages.

Example: “When a client wants to try something new, I always start by getting to know them better. I like to ask questions about their lifestyle, favorite colors, and what kind of look they want to achieve. This helps me understand the type of style that would be best for them.

Once I have an understanding of their preferences, I suggest different pieces that will help them create a unique look. For example, if a client wanted to add color to their wardrobe, I might suggest adding a bright blazer or patterned scarf. Or, if they wanted to go for a more edgy look, I could suggest incorporating leather jackets or statement jewelry.”

7. What would you do if you saw a client wearing an item you picked out previously?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you feel about your work being appreciated by clients. It also shows them that you’re willing to take credit for your work and are proud of it. Your answer should show that you appreciate when a client wears an item you picked out for them, but that you understand that they chose it themselves.

Example: “If I saw a client wearing an item that I had previously picked out for them, I would be thrilled. It would show me that my efforts in finding the perfect piece of clothing or accessory were successful and appreciated by the customer. I would take this opportunity to engage with the client and ask how they are enjoying their purchase. This would give me valuable feedback on what the customer liked about the product and provide insight into future purchases. Furthermore, it would demonstrate to the client that I care about their satisfaction and am invested in helping them find pieces that suit their style.”

8. How well do you know the inventory of the stores you work with?

Employers ask this question to make sure you know the inventory of their stores and can help customers find what they’re looking for. They also want to make sure you have a good memory so you don’t need to write down notes while shopping with customers. In your answer, explain that you’ve memorized the inventory of all the stores you work with and can quickly locate items on request.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with a variety of stores and their inventory. I take the time to familiarize myself with each store’s offerings, so that I can best serve my clients. For example, when I worked as a Personal Shopper at Nordstrom, I made sure to learn about all the different brands they carry and what items were available in each department. This allowed me to quickly identify which pieces would be most suitable for my clients’ needs. I also keep up-to-date on any new arrivals or seasonal trends, so that I’m always able to provide my clients with the latest fashion options. Finally, I make sure to stay abreast of any changes in product availability, so that I can inform my clients if something is no longer available.”

9. Do you have experience working with celebrities?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience working with high-profile clients. If you do, they might want to know how you handled the situation and what skills you used to help them. If you don’t have experience working with celebrities, you can talk about a time when you worked with someone who was in the public eye or had special needs.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with celebrities. In my previous role as a Personal Shopper, I had the opportunity to work with several high-profile clients. My duties included helping them select clothing and accessories for special occasions, such as red carpet events or award shows. I also provided styling advice based on their body type, skin tone, and personal style preferences.

I understand that each celebrity has unique needs when it comes to fashion and I take pride in being able to provide personalized service. I am confident that I can bring this same level of expertise to your team. With my knowledge of current trends and ability to stay organized under pressure, I believe I would be an asset to your organization.”

10. When shopping for a group, how do you decide who to focus on first?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your tasks and make decisions. Your answer should show that you are able to manage multiple clients at once while still providing quality service.

Example: “When shopping for a group, I always prioritize the needs of each individual. My first step is to understand the wants and needs of everyone in the group. This helps me determine which items are essential and which can be saved for later. Once I have an understanding of what everyone needs, I make sure that those items are taken care of first.

I also take into account any preferences or special requests from the group. For example, if one person has dietary restrictions, I’ll make sure to find the right foods for them first. If someone has a specific style they prefer, I’ll focus on finding the perfect item for them before anything else.”

11. We want to expand our customer base. How would you go about attracting new clients?

Personal shoppers often work with clients who are looking for a unique shopping experience. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the creativity and problem-solving skills necessary to attract new customers. In your answer, explain how you would use social media or other marketing strategies to reach out to potential clients.

Example: “I understand the importance of expanding customer base and I have a few strategies that I believe would be effective. First, I would use social media to reach out to potential customers. Through platforms such as Instagram and Twitter, I could create content that is tailored to my target audience and promote it through ads or sponsored posts. This would help me to gain visibility and attract more people who may be interested in my services.

Additionally, I would leverage word-of-mouth marketing by asking existing clients to refer their friends and family members. By providing excellent service to my current customers, they will be more likely to recommend me to others. Finally, I would also look into partnering with other businesses that cater to similar audiences. For example, if I’m targeting young professionals, I could partner with a local gym or yoga studio to offer discounts for their members.”

12. Describe your process for taking inventory of a client’s wardrobe.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach a task and whether your process is effective. Your answer should include steps that show attention to detail, organization skills and communication with clients.

Example: “When taking inventory of a client’s wardrobe, I like to start by getting an understanding of the client’s style and preferences. This helps me to determine what type of items they would be interested in purchasing or keeping in their wardrobe. After that, I will go through each item of clothing and assess its condition, fit, and style. I also take into account any special requests from the client such as color preference or specific types of fabrics. Finally, I create a detailed list of all the items in the client’s wardrobe, noting which pieces should be kept, donated, or replaced. This allows me to provide my clients with a comprehensive overview of their current wardrobe and make recommendations for future purchases.”

13. What makes you stand out from other personal shoppers?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personal shopping experience and how you can contribute to their company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight a skill or two that makes you unique from other personal shoppers. You can also mention any certifications you have in the industry.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other personal shoppers. I have over five years of experience in the industry, working with a variety of clients to help them find the perfect items for their needs. My background includes working with both high-end luxury brands as well as more affordable options. This has given me an understanding of how to meet different budgets while still providing excellent service.

My approach to personal shopping is also unique. I take the time to get to know each client’s individual style and preferences so that I can provide tailored recommendations. I’m also highly organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay on top of all tasks related to the job. Finally, I’m passionate about customer service and strive to ensure every client leaves feeling satisfied with their purchases.”

14. Which personal shopping software do you prefer to use?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with personal shopping software. It also helps them understand which tools you’re familiar with and how you might use them to benefit their company. If you have previous experience using a specific software, share what you like about it and why you prefer it over other options.

Example: “I have experience working with a variety of personal shopping software, and I’m confident that I can quickly learn any new systems. My favorite software to use is Shopify, as it offers an intuitive user interface and powerful features for managing customer orders. It also provides detailed analytics on customer purchases, which helps me track trends and make better decisions when selecting items for customers. Furthermore, its integration with other ecommerce platforms makes it easy to keep up with the latest products and services. Finally, I appreciate the fact that Shopify has excellent customer support, so I know I’ll always be able to get help if I need it.”

15. What do you think is the most important skill for a personal shopper to have?

Employers ask this question to see if you have the skills they’re looking for in a personal shopper. They want someone who is organized, friendly and has excellent communication skills. When answering this question, think about what skills you have that match up with the job description. If there are any skills missing from the job listing, try to include those as well.

Example: “I believe the most important skill for a personal shopper to have is excellent customer service. Personal shoppers are responsible for helping customers find what they need and providing them with an enjoyable shopping experience. As such, it’s essential that personal shoppers be able to listen carefully to their clients’ needs and provide helpful advice in order to ensure satisfaction.

In addition to excellent customer service, I also think that having strong organizational skills is key for a successful personal shopper. Being organized helps you keep track of your client’s preferences, budget, and any other relevant information so that you can make sure they get exactly what they want. It also allows you to work efficiently, which is especially important when dealing with multiple clients at once.”

16. How often do you recommend clients get new clothes?

This question can help the interviewer determine how often you recommend clients buy new clothes and what your personal style is. It’s important to be honest in your answer, but it can also be helpful to give examples of when you’ve recommended a client get something new or when you’ve encouraged them to wait on buying something.

Example: “I believe that it is important to update your wardrobe, but not too often. I recommend that my clients get new clothes when they feel like their current wardrobe no longer reflects their personal style or needs. For example, if a client has recently changed jobs and now requires more formal attire, then I would suggest updating their wardrobe with appropriate pieces. Furthermore, I also think it’s important to stay on top of the latest trends in fashion so that my clients can look fashionable and stylish. Therefore, I usually recommend that my clients invest in one or two key pieces each season to keep their wardrobe up-to-date.”

17. There is a trend that you don’t think your client would like. Should you still suggest it to them?

This question is a great way to see how you would handle a situation that could be challenging. It’s important to show the interviewer that you can make decisions and recommendations based on your client’s preferences, even if they are different from yours.

Example: “As a personal shopper, I understand that my clients rely on me to provide them with the latest trends and styles. However, it is also important for me to take into consideration their individual tastes and preferences when making recommendations. If there is a trend that I don’t think my client would like, then I will not suggest it to them. Instead, I will focus on finding other options that are more suitable for their style and budget. I believe in providing my clients with personalized service so they can feel confident in their purchases.”

18. Describe your experience working with a difficult client.

Employers ask this question to see how you handle challenging situations. They want to know that you can remain calm and professional when a client is upset or difficult. In your answer, explain what steps you took to resolve the situation. Show that you are willing to do whatever it takes to help clients find what they’re looking for.

Example: “I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients, including some who can be difficult. In my experience, I have found that most challenging customers are simply looking for someone to listen to their needs and take them seriously. To effectively manage these types of situations, I always strive to remain professional and courteous while also taking the time to understand what it is they need from me.

For example, I once worked with a client who was very particular about the items she wanted. She was not satisfied with any of the options I presented her and seemed frustrated. I took the time to really listen to her concerns and asked questions to better understand what she was looking for. After several conversations, I was able to find a selection of items that met all of her requirements. This approach allowed us to build trust and eventually resulted in a successful outcome.”

19. What do you think is the most important thing for a personal shopper to keep in mind when shopping for a client?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you prioritize your clients’ needs and preferences. Your answer should show that you value customer service and are willing to go above and beyond for a client’s benefit.

Example: “The most important thing for a personal shopper to keep in mind when shopping for a client is understanding their individual needs and preferences. It’s essential to take the time to get to know your clients, understand their style, budget, lifestyle, and any other factors that may influence their shopping decisions. This will help ensure that you are able to find items that fit their exact specifications and make them feel comfortable with their purchase.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of current trends and fashion styles so that you can provide up-to-date advice on what looks best for each individual. Finally, I believe it’s important to always maintain a professional attitude and provide excellent customer service throughout the entire process. By doing this, you can build trust with your clients and create a positive experience for them.”

20. How would you handle a situation where a client is unhappy with an item you picked out?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether or not you have the ability to resolve it. When answering this question, try to focus on your problem-solving skills and highlight your ability to make customers happy.

Example: “If a client is unhappy with an item I have picked out, my first priority would be to understand why they are not satisfied. It’s important to listen carefully and ask questions in order to gain insight into their preferences so that I can make better selections for them in the future. Once I have established what the issue is, I will work with the client to find a solution that meets both of our needs. This could involve finding a replacement item or offering a refund if necessary. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the client is happy with the outcome and that they feel respected throughout the process.”

21. Describe how you work with clients who have certain body types or sizes.

Personal shoppers often work with clients who have unique body types or sizes. Employers ask this question to make sure you can provide excellent customer service to all of your clients. In your answer, explain how you would help a client find flattering clothing for their body type or size. Try to use specific examples from past experiences if possible.

Example: “When working with clients who have certain body types or sizes, I approach each situation with an open mind and a willingness to listen. My goal is to understand the client’s needs and preferences in order to provide them with the best possible shopping experience. I take into account their individual style, budget, and lifestyle when selecting items for them.

I also strive to make sure that my clients feel comfortable and confident while trying on clothes. I am patient and understanding of any body type or size, and I always ensure that the clothing fits correctly and looks flattering. I use my knowledge of fashion trends and styles to help guide my clients towards pieces that will look great on them.”

22. Do you have any tips for styling different age groups?

Personal shoppers often work with a variety of customers, including children and older adults. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with different age groups. Use your answer to share one or two tips that you use when styling people of all ages.

Example: “Absolutely. I understand that styling for different age groups can be a challenge, so I always make sure to keep the individual in mind when creating an outfit. For example, when styling someone who is younger, I like to focus on trends and incorporate pieces that are fun and youthful. On the other hand, when styling someone who is older, I prefer to focus on classic pieces that will stand the test of time. I also take into consideration body shape and size, as well as personal style preferences, when putting together looks for any age group. Ultimately, my goal is to create an outfit that makes the client feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.”

23. Describe how you stay organized while shopping for multiple clients at once.

Personal shoppers often work with multiple clients at once, so employers ask this question to make sure you have the organizational skills necessary for the job. In your answer, explain how you keep track of all your client’s preferences and shopping lists. Explain that you use a computer or mobile device to organize your tasks and schedule appointments.

Example: “Staying organized while shopping for multiple clients is essential to providing excellent customer service. I have developed a system that helps me keep track of each client’s individual needs and preferences. First, I create a list for each client with their specific items they need or want. This allows me to quickly reference what I am looking for in store. Second, I use my phone to take notes on which items I find and where they are located. Finally, I always double check the list before checking out to make sure I haven’t missed anything. By using this system, I can ensure that all of my clients’ needs are met in an efficient manner.”

24. Are you comfortable giving fashion advice outside of what the client has requested?

This question can help the interviewer determine how comfortable you are with giving your opinion and helping customers find new styles that they may not have considered. Use examples from previous experience to show that you’re willing to give advice when it’s needed.

Example: “Absolutely! As a Personal Shopper, I believe it is important to provide clients with fashion advice that goes beyond what they have requested. It’s my job to help them find the perfect look for any occasion and I’m confident in my ability to do so. I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on current trends and am always researching new styles and looks. I also make sure to stay informed about different body types and how certain garments may fit or flatter each individual. My goal is to ensure that my clients leave feeling stylish and confident in their choices.”

25. How do you ensure that all items purchased are within the client’s budget?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your client’s needs and preferences while also ensuring that they stay within their budget. Use examples from past experiences to show how you balance these two factors when making decisions about what to purchase for clients.

Example: “I understand the importance of staying within a client’s budget when it comes to personal shopping. To ensure that all items purchased are within the client’s budget, I always start by having an in-depth conversation with them about their needs and preferences. This allows me to get a better understanding of what they are looking for and how much they are willing to spend.

Once I have this information, I will research different stores and websites to find the best deals on the items the client is interested in. I also keep track of any sales or discounts that may be available so that I can take advantage of those savings. Finally, I make sure to stay organized and keep detailed records of all purchases made, including prices, so that I can easily reference back to them if needed.”