20 PetSmart Interview Questions and Answers

As a pet retailer, PetSmart is always looking for passionate, hardworking employees who love animals. If you’re hoping to land a job at PetSmart, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some company-specific interview questions.

In this guide, we’ll give you some tips on how to answer common PetSmart interview questions. We’ll also provide sample answers to help you prepare for your interview.

PetSmart Interview Process

The interview process at PetSmart can vary depending on the position you are applying for. Generally, the process will start with an online application followed by a phone screen or in-person interview. For some positions, like Store Manager, there may be multiple rounds of interviews. The difficulty of the interviews also varies depending on the position. For entry-level positions, like Cashier or Pet Care Associate, the interviews tend to be fairly straightforward. For more senior positions, like Stocker or Inventory Auditor, the interviews may be more challenging. Overall, the interview process at PetSmart is generally positive. Interviewers are typically friendly and helpful, and they do their best to make sure you are comfortable during the process.

1. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an angry customer.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle stressful situations. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “When I worked as a sales associate at a clothing store, an older woman came into the store looking for a dress for her daughter’s wedding. She was very upset because she couldn’t find anything that fit her budget. I showed her some of our more affordable options and helped her try on several dresses until she found one she liked. She ended up buying two dresses so she could have one ready in case something happened to the first.”

2. Why do you want to work at PetSmart?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are a good fit for their company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about PetSmart that interests you or what drew you to apply for the position.

Example: “I want to work at PetSmart because I love animals and have always wanted to work in a pet store. I think my customer service skills would be an asset to your team, and I am excited to learn more about how to care for different types of pets. I also really enjoy working with people, so interacting with customers while helping them find the right products for their pets sounds like a great opportunity.”

3. If hired, would you be willing to move to another location if needed?

PetSmart is a large company that has locations across the country. If you’re interviewing for a position in one area, but PetSmart needs someone to fill a role at another location, they may ask this question to make sure you’re willing to move. In your answer, explain how important it is to be flexible and willing to relocate if necessary.

Example: “I would definitely be willing to move to another location if needed. I’m excited about working for PetSmart because of its reputation as an employer, so I understand that sometimes there are situations where employees need to move to different areas. As long as my family can come with me, I am happy to do whatever is best for the company.”

4. Do you have any experience working in retail or pet care?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your background and how it relates to this role. If you have experience working in retail or pet care, share what skills you gained from that position that will be helpful for this role at PetSmart.

Example: “I worked as a dog walker for two years while I was in college. This job taught me how to work with different types of dogs and their owners. It also helped me develop my communication and problem-solving skills because I would often answer questions from clients and solve issues like lost leashes or missing treats.”

5. What sales techniques would you use to help customers find the right product for their pet?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach sales and customer service. Use examples from your previous experience to highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities and ability to work with customers.

Example: “I find that it’s important to listen to what a customer is looking for in a product. I ask questions about their pet’s age, breed, size and any health issues they may be experiencing. This helps me recommend products that are tailored to their specific needs. For example, if a dog has allergies, I would suggest a hypoallergenic shampoo or food.”

6. How would you handle inventory discrepancies?

Inventory discrepancies can occur when a customer purchases an item and the store doesn’t have it in stock. This is common for large retailers like PetSmart, so interviewers want to make sure you know how to handle this situation professionally. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate with customers.

Example: “I would first apologize to the customer and offer them a discount on another product of equal value. I would then speak with my manager about what happened and find out if there was any way we could locate the missing inventory. If not, I would call all other stores within a 50-mile radius to see if they had the same item in stock.”

7. Are you comfortable handling animals and cleaning up after them?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your comfort level with working in an environment where you’re likely to encounter animals and their waste. They want to know that you can handle this aspect of the job without complaint or hesitation. Your answer should show that you are willing to do what’s necessary to keep customers happy and the store clean.

Example: “I have worked as a dog walker, so I am very comfortable handling dogs and cleaning up after them. I also understand how important it is to make sure our customers’ experience is positive, so I will always be ready to help out wherever needed.”

8. As a store manager, how would you motivate your team members?

Motivation is an important skill for a store manager to have. It helps them keep their team members motivated and productive. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific strategies you use to motivate your team members.

Example: “I find that the best way to motivate my team members is by showing appreciation for their hard work. I try to make sure everyone on my team knows how much they are valued and appreciated. Another strategy I use to motivate my team is by giving out small rewards or incentives when we meet our goals. This motivates my team to do better and achieve more.”

9. What are some of your strengths and weaknesses?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you view yourself. They want to know what skills you have that will help you succeed in the role, but they also want to make sure you are aware of any areas for improvement. When answering this question, be honest about both your strengths and weaknesses. Try to focus on your strengths first, as these are the things you would like to highlight.

Example: “I am a very organized person who is always prepared for my day. I am able to multitask well and work efficiently under pressure. My weakness is that sometimes I get so focused on getting tasks done that I forget to take breaks. This can lead to me feeling overwhelmed or stressed at times.”

10. Can you tell us about a time that you disagreed with a coworker on something? How did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you resolve conflicts. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you disagreed with someone but were able to work together to find a solution or compromise.

Example: “At my previous job, I had a coworker who was very strict on following our company’s policies. One day, she told me that I wasn’t allowed to give customers free samples because they weren’t part of our marketing strategy. I explained to her that I gave out free samples as a way to make sure customers were happy with their purchases and would come back to shop again. She agreed that it could be beneficial for business and we worked out a system where I could give out one sample per customer.”

11. When was the last time you were forced to make a difficult decision?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of how you make decisions and what your thought process is. This can be an opportunity to show that you are decisive, but also consider all options before making a final decision.

Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with deciding which employees would receive raises for their hard work. It was difficult because everyone had worked so hard and deserved a raise, but we didn’t have enough money in our budget to give everyone one. In the end, I decided to give everyone a small raise and promised to give them another raise if they continued to perform well.”

12. Have you ever been fired from a job? Explain why.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your character and how you respond to challenges. They want to know that you can take responsibility for your actions, even if they were not in the best interest of a company. When answering this question, be honest and explain what you learned from the experience.

Example: “I was fired from my first job as a cashier at a grocery store when I was 18 years old. My manager told me it was because I had been late too many times, but I knew that wasn’t true. I would always call ahead if I was going to be late or leave early. One day, I saw her talking with another employee who was also frequently late. She said she didn’t care if he was late again, but then she looked over at me and said she expected better behavior from me.”

13. What is one thing you learned in your previous job that you think will help you at PetSmart?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are eager to learn and grow as a professional. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about your previous job that helped you develop a skill or quality that will help you succeed in your new role.

Example: “In my last position, I learned how to work with a team of people who had different ideas on how to accomplish tasks. This experience has taught me how to communicate effectively and compromise when necessary. At PetSmart, I am excited to use these skills to collaborate with other employees and find solutions to problems.”

14. Describe your approach to training new employees.

This question can help the interviewer understand your leadership skills and how you might approach training new employees at PetSmart. Use examples from past experiences to describe how you helped others learn about their job duties, including any specific techniques or strategies that have proven effective in helping others succeed.

Example: “I find it helpful to start with a brief overview of the company’s mission statement and values before moving on to more detailed information about each department. I also like to give my team members some time to get to know one another so they feel comfortable asking questions later. For example, when training new sales associates, I always make sure to introduce them to our customer service representatives first so they can ask questions about interacting with customers.”

15. What would you do if you found out that one of your stockers was stealing products?

This question is a behavioral one that tests your problem-solving skills. It also shows the interviewer how you react to conflict and whether or not you’re willing to report wrongdoing. Your answer should show that you value honesty and integrity, while also demonstrating that you can handle difficult situations.

Example: “If I found out that one of my stockers was stealing products, I would first try to resolve the situation by talking with them about it. If they continued to steal products after our conversation, I would immediately report them to management so that they could take appropriate action.”

16. Would you feel comfortable trimming dogs’ nails?

PetSmart is a pet supply store that sells products for dogs, cats and other animals. The company wants to make sure you’re comfortable working with all types of pets. Answer this question by explaining your experience trimming nails. If you’ve never done it before, explain what steps you would take to learn how to do it.

Example: “I have worked as a dog walker in the past, so I’m familiar with handling dogs. I’ve trimmed my friends’ dogs’ nails before, but I haven’t had much practice on my own. I would ask my friend if they could show me how to do it next time we visit the park together.”

17. What do you know about our company?

This question is a great way to test your research skills and show the hiring manager that you are serious about this role. Before your interview, read up on PetSmart’s mission statement, recent news and social media accounts. You can also learn more about the company by asking your recruiter for information or looking at their website.

Example: “I know that PetSmart has been in business since 1994 and that it was founded by two brothers who wanted to make pet ownership easier for families. I’ve seen some of the amazing work you do with rescue animals and how much you care about customer service. I’m excited to be part of such an innovative company.”

18. What is your availability like?

Employers ask this question to make sure you can work the hours they need. They also want to know if you have any scheduling conflicts that might prevent you from working a full schedule. When answering, be honest about your availability and try to show how you would fit into their current team.

Example: “I am available for full-time employment. I do not have any scheduling conflicts at this time. My only concern is my commute. I live an hour away from the nearest PetSmart location. However, I am willing to move closer to find a job.”

19. How would you motivate someone who is not performing well?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and address challenges. Use examples from your experience to show that you are willing to speak up when necessary, but also know how to encourage others to perform better.

Example: “I would first try to understand why they were not performing well. If it was due to a lack of motivation, I would find ways to inspire them by sharing my own experiences or offering suggestions for new approaches. If their performance was due to other factors, such as time management or communication skills, I would offer solutions to help them overcome these obstacles.”

20. How would you explain basic grooming services to a potential customer?

This question is a great way to test your customer service skills. Interviewers ask this question to see if you can explain grooming services in an easy-to-understand way for customers who may not be familiar with the terminology. In your answer, try to use simple language and avoid using industry jargon.

Example: “At PetSmart, we offer many different grooming services that are tailored to meet each pet’s unique needs. For example, our bathing services include full baths, nail trims and ear cleaning. We also provide more advanced services like hair cuts and color treatments. I would tell my potential customer that these services help keep their pets looking and feeling their best.”