20 SalonCentric Interview Questions and Answers

When you go in for a job interview, you can expect to field questions about your qualifications, your experience, and your goals. But what about questions specific to the company you’re interviewing with?

Asking company specific interview questions is a great way to show that you’re truly interested in the position and that you’ve done your research. It also shows that you’re thinking about how your skills and experience can be applied to the specific role you’re interviewing for.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of sample company specific interview questions for SalonCentric.

SalonCentric Interview Process

The interview process at SalonCentric can be long and drawn out, with minimal follow up from the company. Applicants may go through several rounds of interviews, both over the phone and in person, before finally being hired. The questions asked during the interviews are typically basic and focused on customer service skills and experience.

1. What is your experience with the beauty industry?

This question is a great way to gauge your level of experience with the beauty industry. If you have no experience, it’s okay to say so and explain what other industries you’ve worked in that are similar.

Example: “I have been working as a makeup artist for five years now. I started out doing freelance work for friends and family before getting my certification from Makeup Forever. After that, I began working at a local salon where I learned about all the different products they carried. I also did some training on how to use those products.”

2. How would you handle an unhappy customer who was making a scene in front of other customers?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle difficult situations and whether or not you have the interpersonal skills to diffuse a tense situation. In your answer, try to show that you are calm under pressure and willing to do whatever it takes to make customers happy.

Example: “I would first apologize for any inconvenience they experienced and then I would listen carefully to what they were saying. If they were upset about something specific, I would offer them a discount on their next visit as an apology. If they were making a scene in front of other customers, I would ask them to step into my office so we could talk privately.”

3. Why do you want to work at SalonCentric?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are a good fit for their salon. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of SalonCentric that appeal to you or how your personality matches with the salon’s culture.

Example: “I have always been passionate about hair care, so I am excited to work at SalonCentric because I feel like I would really thrive in this environment. The atmosphere here is very friendly and welcoming, which makes me feel confident that I could make lasting connections with my coworkers. I also love the idea of being able to provide clients with an exceptional experience while working on their hair.”

4. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with difficult or angry clientele and how you handled it.

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle conflict and challenging situations. They want to know that you can remain calm under pressure, communicate effectively and solve problems quickly.

Example: “I once had a client who was unhappy with her haircut. She started yelling at me in front of other clients, which made them uncomfortable. I calmly asked her if we could speak privately so she wouldn’t disturb others. Once we were alone, I apologized for the inconvenience and explained that I would be happy to fix her hair free of charge or give her a discount on another service. She agreed to let me fix it, and after I did, she left very satisfied.”

5. What are some ways that you can help boost sales and increase profits for our company?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your sales and customer service skills. Show them that you have experience with generating new leads, increasing customer loyalty and helping clients make purchases.

Example: “I believe in providing my customers with an excellent level of service so they’ll want to come back again and again. I also know how important it is to offer promotions and discounts to attract new customers. In my last role, I helped increase salon revenue by 10% by implementing these strategies.”

6. Do you have any experience managing store operations?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience with salon software and how it works. If you do, share your previous experience managing store operations to show that you’re familiar with salon software.

Example: “I’ve worked in a retail environment for five years now, so I’m very comfortable working with customers and helping them find what they need. In my last position, I was responsible for scheduling employees, handling customer complaints and overseeing inventory management. This helped me learn more about salon software and how it could benefit our team.”

7. Describe your management style.

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are a strong leader and can motivate your team. Your answer should include examples of how you’ve motivated others in the past, as well as any specific skills you have for motivating people.

Example: “I believe my management style is collaborative. I like to involve everyone on my team in decision-making processes so they feel invested in the salon’s success. For example, when we were looking at new software for our scheduling system, I asked each stylist what their preferences were. We ended up choosing a program that met most of our needs.”

8. What kind of work environment do you thrive in?

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you might fit in with their salon’s culture. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of a work environment that you enjoyed working in or what made it enjoyable.

Example: “I thrive in an energetic work environment where everyone is friendly and supportive of one another. I’ve worked at salons where the staff was competitive with each other, which made me feel uncomfortable. In my last position, however, we were all very close and would help each other out when needed. We also had fun together outside of work, so I felt like I could be myself.”

9. Have you ever worked at a place where deadlines were critical?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle pressure and time constraints. They want to know that you can work quickly, but also with quality. In your answer, explain a situation where you had to meet a deadline or produce a lot of work in a short amount of time. Explain what steps you took to ensure the quality of your work was high while still meeting the deadline.

Example: “At my previous salon, we were often busy on Saturdays. One Saturday, I had three clients scheduled back-to-back. The first client arrived 15 minutes early, so I asked another stylist if they could take care of the next two appointments until I was ready for them. This allowed me to focus on one client at a time without rushing through any services.”

10. Can you tell us about your previous retail experience, if applicable?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your previous experience and how it relates to the position. If you have retail experience, share a specific example of when you helped a customer find what they were looking for or resolve an issue.

Example: “I worked as a sales associate at a clothing store in my hometown for two years. I loved helping customers find exactly what they were looking for and assisting them with finding their size. In one instance, a woman came into the store looking for a dress for her daughter’s wedding. She was having trouble deciding between two dresses that she liked. I asked her questions about her style preferences and budget to help narrow down our search. After asking her some additional questions, we found a dress that matched all of her criteria.”

11. Our team members often wear many different hats during their shifts. Is that something you feel comfortable doing?

This question is a great way to determine if the salon’s team members are flexible and willing to help out their coworkers. It also helps employers understand how you might fit into their existing team.

Example: “I feel comfortable wearing many different hats during my shifts, especially when it comes to helping other stylists or assisting customers. I have experience working as a receptionist, so I know how important it is to be able to multitask in order to keep the front desk running smoothly. In fact, I find that being able to wear multiple hats makes me more efficient at each task.”

12. This position requires a lot of heavy lifting. Are you able to lift up to 50 pounds?

This question is a good way to determine if you are physically capable of performing the job duties. Interviewers ask this question to make sure that you can lift heavy objects and perform other physical tasks required for the position. In your answer, let the interviewer know about any physical training or experience you have lifting weights.

Example: “I am very strong and I regularly work out at my local gym. I’ve been doing weightlifting for three years now, so I’m used to lifting up to 50 pounds. I also have some experience working in retail where I had to lift boxes and bags all day long.”

13. Would you be comfortable working with potentially dangerous chemicals?

This question is designed to assess your comfort level with chemicals and other potentially dangerous substances. It’s important for employers to know that you’re comfortable working with these materials, as they can be a part of the job. If you have no experience with them, it’s best to explain this in your answer.

Example: “I’ve never worked with any dangerous chemicals before, but I am very comfortable using chemicals like hair dye and bleach. I understand how to use them safely and would take all necessary precautions when handling them.”

14. Describe a time where you were successful at getting a large gift and what your strategy was.

This question is a great way to show your sales skills and how you can help the company grow. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your ability to sell products or services and increase revenue for your employer.

Example: “In my previous role as a stylist at a salon, I had a client who was looking for a new hair color but wasn’t sure what she wanted. After talking with her about different options, we decided that highlights would be best for her hair type. She ended up purchasing a full head of highlights along with a deep conditioning treatment. This sale helped me earn an additional commission.”

15. What type of schedule are you looking for?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you are a good fit for their salon. They want someone who is willing to work the same schedule as other employees and can be flexible when necessary. When answering, consider what type of hours they offer and how your availability matches up. If there’s no open position that fits with your schedule, explain what kind of hours you’re looking for.

Example: “I’m available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but I am also open to working weekends or evenings if needed. I have experience working nights and weekends in previous positions, so I understand the importance of flexibility.”

16. What do you think sets SalonCentric apart from its competitors?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and see if your values align with SalonCentric’s. Your answer should show that you understand what makes SalonCentric unique and how it benefits customers.

Example: “I think SalonCentric is different from other salons because of its commitment to customer service. I’ve worked in a salon before where we were understaffed, which made it hard for us to give our clients the attention they needed. At SalonCentric, however, I have noticed that there are always enough stylists on hand to ensure every client gets the care they deserve.”

17. How would you use social media as a recruitment strategy for the salon?

Social media is a great way to attract new clients and build your brand. Employers want to know that you understand how to use social media effectively, so they can be sure you’ll help the salon grow its client base.

Example: “I would use social media as an outreach tool for potential customers in my area who are looking for a new stylist or salon. I’d also use it to connect with other professionals in the industry to share ideas and collaborate on projects. Social media is a great place to network and learn from others.”

18. If hired, how long do you plan on staying with this company?

This question is a great way for employers to learn about your commitment level. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention how you plan on growing with the company and what steps you will take to ensure that happens.

Example: “I am looking for a long-term career in the beauty industry. I have been working as a receptionist at my current salon for two years now, and I feel like I still have so much more to learn. I would love to continue working here if hired because I know there are many opportunities for growth within SalonCentric.”

19. In order to provide excellent customer service we need employees who have strong communication skills. How would you rate yours?

Interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the necessary communication skills for their salon. They want to know that you can effectively communicate with clients and other team members. When answering, try to show your confidence in your ability to communicate clearly and professionally.

Example: “I believe I have strong communication skills. Throughout my career, I’ve had many opportunities to practice my communication skills. For example, when working as a receptionist at a medical office, I was responsible for communicating patient information to doctors. In addition, I also communicated with patients about their appointments and any changes. This helped me develop my active listening skills.”

20. SalonCentric offers training programs to all new hires. Are you willing to commit to these trainings?

Interviewers ask this question to determine if you are willing to learn and grow in your new role. They want to know that you’re excited about the opportunity and eager to take on new challenges. When answering, be sure to emphasize how much you enjoy learning and growing as a professional.

Example: “I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge of the industry. I would love to participate in any training programs SalonCentric offers. I feel like it’s important to stay up-to-date with current trends and techniques.”