I applied online. The process took 4 days. I interviewed at JCPenney (Minneapolis, MN) in Jul 2014
Interview
I applied online and the process took about 3-5 days to get a call from the HR to go in for a group interview, they also do a small phone interview as well, so be ready! They just asked to see what I did at my previous workplace, why you left the workplace and why you want to work at JCP. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend the group interview due to a personal issue. Even due to canceling the interview, the HR nonetheless still called me the next following day that she worked and set up a one-on-one interview with one of the Lead Experts. I had 3 days to prepare for my next interview set-up, I dressed up business casual (Flats, Blazer, Dressy sleeveless shirt, Dress pants) and went right when the store just opened up.The interview went pretty well, they just go through your submitted application and asked the same questions as the phone interview, "What skills do you have to contribute to our company? Why would you be a good fit for our company? Etc. Etc." Like I said, common sense and a few scenarios (Even have opportunity to just let them know about your own personal "GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE" scenario from a different job as well). After she interviewed me, a lead that's higher then her came in to interview me as well, they basically asked the same question and went over my availability and after she offered me the position on the spot and also told me the pay rate. It was a very laid back interview.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
First off, pass the questionnaire test at the end of the application - If you don't pass it, you have to wait a total of 180 days to re-apply again. Don't even call and tell them to hire you, as much as they want to hire you based off your personality, they won't even be able to pull up your application.
-No difficult questions, they were all basic common sense & scenarios.
I applied in-person. I interviewed at JCPenney (Tempe, AZ)
Interview
It was in a very professional and comfortable setting in the store. And it was conducted with the store and salon manager at that location. Both of the managers were kind and professional.
It was a group interview which led to an individual interview with a supervisor. If you pass the first round you have a higher chance of getting hired on for a position
Interview process went smoothly. Asked behavioral questions and situational questions that catered to how you deal with a variety of customer personalities. Also asked about previous employment roles. Offered a job on the first interview.