Payless interview help?
Asked by Homosexual Bitchfuck
So I applied for full time or parttime sales associate position at Payless. I've had two interviews this past week and completely bombed both of them. I know I can work the hours and do what the job entails, but it's getting through interviews that's proving to be so unnecessarily difficult! At one of the interviews, the manager didn't ask but three questions I'd prepared myself to answer. ANYWAY, so finally yesterday Payless called and asked to schedule an interview for this upcoming Wednesday at 2PM. I'm in SERIOUS need of a job right now, so can anyone tell me what it's like to interview with Payless? What types of questions do they ask? How should I dress (I kinda overdressed for my last interview...)? Btw, as this would be my first job, would my lack of experience hurt my chances of being hired?

Best Answer:
Typically the rule is to dress for one position up than the one you are going for. However, in this case I recommend casual business. Black pants and a nice top. Dress the same or slightly better than the people who work there. This will all sound basic, but it is important none the less: *Don't eat onions or garlic between now until after the interview. *Have clean teeth and pop a breath mint in before the interview. The pre-interview stress tends to sour our breath. *Shower and use deoderant, but don't use perfume. You will likely interview in a small space and perfume can be so distracting that it takes the focus off of you. *Make up, hair and nails should be neutral. And jewelry should be just a couple of smaller pieces. Again you don't want the focus to be on anything other than what makes you a good addition to their team. *Don't overstress the questions they ask. There is such a thing as being over prepared and sounding like a robot. If you are asked a question that you aren't prepared for, it is perfectly ok to take a moment to think before answering it. I don't expect people I interview to have all of the answers at the tip of their tongue. I appreciate someone who isn't afraid to say, "you know I hadn't thought about that before. I would have to say XYZ". I like people who can admit they don't know everything because it shows me that when they work for me they won't tell my customers something false because they have a need to look like they know everything. *Have a pad of paper in your hand to take notes on. It shows that you are serious about getting the job. *Have questions ready to ask them about how certain things are done and don't be afraid to start a question or two (not all of them) "as a member of your team (important word), would I be responsible for ____?" or "as a member of your team, how would you want me upsell (get them to buy more than just that pair of shoes) our customers?" This is actually a GREAT question because it shows them that you are interested in making money for the store. "How often do we receive merchandise shipments?" "What do you think is important for me to know about your store and what you expect from your team?" *Mirror the interviewers body language. If they cross their legs, cross yours. If they lean back in their chair, lean back in yours. *Don't worry about your lack of experience. Focus on your positives. *Remember that this person wants a reason to hire you. Interviewing people is a pain and they want to find a good person as quickly as possible. You are that person! You look them in the eye. You are confident. You aren't afraid to "chat" with them prior to the actual start of the interview. While you are walking with them to the office, ask them how long they have been with Payless. Think of it as making a new friend. Between now and Wednesday visualize yourself working there. Visualize the things you will be doing. Create a paycheck made out to you from Payless and have it somewhere you can see it throughout the day. Best of luck!!
I have been hiring employess for over 15 years and now own my own business.
Answered by dudleys

I don't believe you can over dress for an interview. Under dress, yes. Tell them that you are a little nervous and maybe it will break the ice and they will know and you can relax a little. What ever questions they ask, answer honestly and to the point. Lack of experience might hurt you some but tell them how much you want and need the job and that you can be trained to do anything~
Answered by Karen

kind of...if you didn't have a job experience...you can tell a little white lie such as you volunteered for an event of some sort. Don't stress yourself...the questions are pretty formal and mundane. They ask you stupid questions like "how are you going to contribute to payless shoe store?" "How are you with people?" "Tell us a little about yourself" If I was you, I wouldn't pour out my life story to them...but i will talk about what kind of person I am(people's person), that I have good communication and understanding to consumers, that I obtain the qualities of a good workman and I'm generally happy to help customers. I'll also talk about how I will contribute for the maximum efficiency of the store by attracting more customers. Tips: Be on time! Have a proper apparel Bring a positive attitude Relax and don't sweat it Try to stand out in the interview by showing a gentlemen conduct such as good handshakes, proper speaking tone, ... Do NOT show that you are desperate for the job!!!
Answered by hellhammer