20 RH Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to home furnishings, Restoration Hardware is one of the most innovative and fastest-growing luxury brands. If you’re lucky enough to snag an interview with this company, you’ll want to be prepared to answer some specific questions about your qualifications and experience.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to prepare for your Restoration Hardware interview, including what to expect and how to answer some of the most common questions.

RH Interview Process

The interview process at RH can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For entry-level positions, expect to have at least four interviews. These may be conducted over the phone, via Zoom, or in person. The difficulty of the interviews will also depend on the role you are applying for. Some roles may require homework to be completed before the interview, and others may have a longer hiring process that spans several weeks. Overall, the experience is generally positive, though some reviewers have found it to be unorganized or too long.

1. What would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be honest. Employers want to know what you’re good at so they can use your strengths to their advantage. They also want to know about any weaknesses so they can help you improve them or find ways to work around them.

Example: “My greatest strength is my attention to detail. I’m always looking for ways to make things better, whether that’s finding the right color of paint or rearranging furniture. My weakness is that sometimes I get so focused on details that I lose sight of the big picture. I’ve learned to ask for help when I need it.”

2. Tell us about a time when you had to manage multiple priorities in the workplace. How did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to multitask and prioritize tasks. It also gives the interviewer insight into how you manage stress in the workplace.

Example: “In my previous role, I had a lot of responsibilities that required me to work with multiple teams. I used project management software to keep track of all deadlines and deliverables for each team member. This helped me stay organized and ensure everyone was on task and meeting their deadlines.”

3. Why do you want to work at RH?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know that you have done research on the organization and are excited about what they do. When preparing for this question, make sure you read through the job description and look at any recent news releases or social media posts from the company.

Example: “I am very interested in working for Restoration Hardware because of its commitment to quality craftsmanship and design. I love the idea of helping customers create beautiful spaces in their homes with high-quality products. I also appreciate how Restoration Hardware has been able to grow into such an innovative brand while still maintaining its roots as a family business.”

4. Describe a situation where you were able to help solve a problem for a customer.

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you can help customers find the right products for their needs.

Example: “At my previous job, I had a customer who was looking for a new dining room table but wasn’t sure what style would work best in her home. She wanted something that could seat six people comfortably but also be used as an office space when she needed it. After asking her some questions about her lifestyle and preferences, we found a beautiful farmhouse-style table with plenty of storage space underneath. The customer loved the table so much that she ordered two more for her children.”

5. Do you have any experience working with interior design or luxury products?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have experience working with luxury products and can apply your skills to a new company. If you don’t have any experience, you can talk about how you would approach this type of work if hired.

Example: “I’ve worked in retail for five years now, but I haven’t had the opportunity to work with interior design or luxury products before. However, I am very familiar with luxury brands and understand what it takes to provide excellent customer service to these types of clients. I also know how to use my creativity to solve problems and find solutions that meet the needs of customers.”

6. Give an example of a time when you exceeded goals set by your supervisor.

This question is a great way to show your ability to work independently and meet deadlines. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the specific goals you were given and how you met or exceeded them.

Example: “In my last position as an interior designer for a home decor company, I was tasked with creating a new line of furniture that would appeal to millennials. My supervisor gave me a deadline of six months to complete the project. However, after researching the target demographic, I realized that we needed to create more affordable pieces in order to reach our customers. I presented my idea to my supervisor, who agreed to give me an additional three months to develop the new collection.”

7. If hired, how will you go above and beyond to satisfy customers?

Restoration Hardware is known for its excellent customer service, and the interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience in providing exceptional service. Use your answer to highlight any past experiences that helped you develop your customer service skills.

Example: “I’ve always been passionate about helping others, so I decided to pursue a career in customer service. In my last role as a sales associate at an upscale boutique, I learned how to make customers feel comfortable and welcome while also making sure they found exactly what they were looking for. I am confident that I can apply these same skills to Restoration Hardware.”

8. Are you comfortable using technology as part of your day-to-day responsibilities?

Restoration Hardware is a technology-driven company, and the interviewer wants to make sure you’re comfortable using it. If you have experience with Restoration Hardware’s proprietary software, be sure to mention that in your answer.

Example: “I am very comfortable using technology as part of my day-to-day responsibilities. In fact, I’ve been working with Restoration Hardware’s proprietary software for over five years now, so I’m quite familiar with how it works. I also use other programs like Microsoft Office on a daily basis, so I feel confident that I can adapt to any new technologies that are required.”

9. We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service standards. Can you tell us what those are?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company’s values and expectations. When answering, it can be helpful to refer to specific examples from previous jobs or personal experiences that highlight your ability to provide exceptional customer service.

Example: “I believe in providing customers with an experience that exceeds their expectations. I always make sure to greet them with a smile and offer assistance when they need it. If they have questions about products or services, I am happy to answer them as thoroughly as possible. I also like to surprise customers with small gestures, such as complimentary gift wrapping or a coupon for their next purchase.”

10. Do you enjoy helping people find exactly what they need?

This question is a great way to determine if the company’s culture fits your own. If you’re passionate about helping customers find exactly what they need, Restoration Hardware may be a good fit for you.

Example: “I love working with people and finding them just what they need. I’m very patient and enjoy listening to my customers’ needs and wants so that I can help them find the perfect piece of furniture or home decor item. I’ve always been able to read between the lines when someone tells me what they want and then figure out what they really need.”

11. There can be long periods of downtime during shifts. How do you keep yourself busy during these times?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your personality and how you interact with others. It’s important to show that you’re friendly, positive and enjoy interacting with others during downtime.

Example: “I find it helpful to keep myself busy by reading or studying for my next career advancement. I also like to ask other employees about their job duties and what they like most about working at Restoration Hardware. This helps me learn more about the company culture and makes me feel more connected to my coworkers.”

12. How would you deal with an angry customer?

Restoration Hardware is a luxury brand, so it’s likely that you’ll encounter customers who are upset about something. The interviewer wants to know how you would handle this situation and if you have experience doing so in the past.

Example: “I’ve had to deal with angry customers before, but I try to avoid it as much as possible by always being friendly and helpful on the phone or in person. If someone is upset, I listen carefully to what they’re saying and ask questions to make sure I understand their issue completely. Then, I apologize for any inconvenience and offer them a solution. For example, if an item was damaged during shipping, I might offer to replace it at no cost.”

13. Have you ever worked in a commission based environment before?

This question is a great way to determine if you are comfortable with the commission-based structure Restoration Hardware uses. If you have, explain how it worked for you and what your experience was like. If this is your first time working in a commission-based environment, describe what you think it would be like and why you feel confident that you could succeed in such an environment.

Example: “I’ve never worked in a commission-based environment before, but I am excited about the opportunity to do so at Restoration Hardware. I understand that there will be challenges associated with this type of work environment, but I believe my skills and abilities make me well-suited to succeed in this role.”

14. How would you respond if a customer asked you to make a sale that was outside of company policy?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you would handle a challenging situation and whether your response would reflect positively on Restoration Hardware.

Example: “If a customer asked me to make an exception to company policy, I would first listen carefully to their request and ask for more details about why they wanted to make this purchase. Then, I would explain our current policies and offer alternatives that might meet their needs. If they still insisted on making the sale outside of company policy, I would politely decline but thank them for shopping with us.”

15. What is your availability?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the job. They want someone who is willing to work hard and be flexible with their schedule. When answering, try to give them a realistic idea of your availability. If you have any flexibility in your schedule, let them know that as well.

Example: “I am currently looking for full-time employment. I would love to work at Restoration Hardware because it seems like an amazing company. My current availability is Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, if there were opportunities to work overtime or on weekends, I would definitely consider those.”

16. Being knowledgeable about the many different types of furniture we carry is important. What steps do you take to stay up-to-date on new items?

This question is a great way to show your interest in the company and its products. When answering, it can be helpful to mention specific pieces you’ve seen or heard about that have piqued your interest.

Example: “I love learning about new furniture styles and designs. I subscribe to several home decor magazines and blogs so I can stay up-to-date on what’s trending. I also like to browse Restoration Hardware’s website for new items because they’re always coming out with something unique.”

17. Tell me about a time when you had to work closely with someone whose personality was very different from yours.

This question can help an interviewer understand how you work with others and your ability to collaborate. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you worked with someone who had a different personality than yours and the positive outcome that resulted from this collaboration.

Example: “In my current role as a customer service representative, I have to work closely with many different departments within the company. One department I often interact with is our shipping team. The members of this team are typically very quiet and reserved, while I am more outgoing and talkative. However, we’ve learned to communicate effectively by using nonverbal cues and gestures to help each other understand what we’re saying.”

18. How would you describe your sales style?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have a unique and effective sales style. Your answer should include examples of how you approach customers, what motivates you and the results you’ve achieved in previous roles.

Example: “I believe my success as a salesperson comes from my ability to connect with people. I am empathetic and genuinely interested in learning about my customers’ needs and preferences. This helps me understand their concerns and find solutions that meet their expectations while also meeting our company’s goals. In my last role, this helped me achieve record-breaking sales numbers.”

19. Our employees come from diverse backgrounds. Describe your experience working with a variety of cultures.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your ability to work with a variety of people. Use examples from previous jobs or experiences that show you can collaborate and communicate effectively with others, regardless of their background.

Example: “I’ve worked in the construction industry for over 10 years now, so I have experience working with many different cultures on various projects. In my last job, I was part of a team that built homes in an area where there were many diverse backgrounds. We had to be very careful when communicating with each other because we didn’t all speak the same language. I learned how important it is to listen carefully to what others are saying and to use visual cues to help us understand one another.”

20. At Restoration Hardware, we pride ourselves on being innovators in the retail industry. What unique ideas would you bring to our organization?

Restoration Hardware wants to know that you’re a forward-thinker and have innovative ideas. This is an opportunity for you to show your creativity and willingness to take risks.

Example: “I believe Restoration Hardware has the potential to be one of the most successful brands in the industry, but I think there’s room for improvement when it comes to customer service. I would implement a new training program that focuses on improving communication between sales associates and customers. I also want to introduce more technology into the shopping experience, such as virtual reality headsets that allow customers to see how furniture looks in their home before they buy.”