Retail store jobs are often entry-level positions, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't take them seriously and spend time preparing. The hiring managers of a women's fashion store are going to want to know that you're familiar with their particular brand, that you have sales acumen and that you'll look and act the part of a professional part of the team. So ahead of your interview, think carefully about what to wear, what to bring and what to say.
Learning About the Store
The executives and managers of retail establishments spend a lot of time establishing a distinctive brand that customers recognize, so there's no doubt that you should have a very good sense of that brand before you show up for your interview. Check out store catalogs or its online store. If the store is large or there are multiple locations, visit the store to get a feel for what's on the racks right now. Also check out its social media feeds to get a sense of what managers are promoting.
Demonstrate Expertise in Fashion
Use that research to compile a list of looks you liked or even full clothing lines you enjoyed. Come up with some words to describe each look, why it struck you and the type of customer who might like that type of clothing. Being able to talk intelligently about the store's merchandise will help you make a good impression during the interview. If you're a fashion design student or you have a particular interest in retail and fashion as a career, you might even go as far as creating a mini "lookbook" that compiles fashions you like to share. Similarly, you could print out a copy of a Pinterest fashion page you created and bring it to the interview.
Practice Interview Questions
You'll probably talk a lot about fashion, but your interview will also cover the basics of being a good employee, what you know about the store and its brands, and how to handle common issues in the store. Store managers often use so-called "behavioral interviewing" techniques to find out what you'd do in a particular situation. For example, managers at retail store H&M often ask candidates what they'd prioritize if the store was a mess and customers were lined up at the register as well as the dressing room. Macy's managers, meanwhile, often ask how candidates handle customer problems or customers asking for a discount. To practice, come up with a few retail scenarios and practice how you'd respond -- ideally working with a friend who's working or has worked in retail.
Since your job will be all about inspiring women to buy new fashions, you'll also have to serve as a good role model. Thus, choose your clothing carefully. Try to find something that matches the style of the store, while at the same time wearing something professional. As in other job interviews, short skirts, low-cut blouses or other skimpy attire is not acceptable. If you're a man applying in a women's fashion store, don't expect to be given a pass, either. Wear a stylish shirt and a fashionable pair of tailored pants or a nicely cut pair of jeans, and be sure to take special care grooming your hair and facial hair, if you have any. Managers might want to know something about your personal style, so be prepared to talk about why you chose your clothing and how it reflects your overall style.