I applied in-person. The process took 2 days. I interviewed at Pier 1 Imports in Mar 2012
Interview
The best way to nab an interview is to first complete the online application and assessment. Ensure your availability is accurate because it is one of the most important components of your application to them. If you are unavailable on the weekends (Saturday or Sunday) don't expect to get selected. If you don't want to work weekends, then you shouldn't be working in retail.
Next, the best time to apply is during the slow months; June, July, and October when they are looking for seasonal help. You may have to start as a Temp associate but because turnover is so high, you will more than likely be asked to stay on if you did a decent job. If you don't, then well you didn't work hard enough or show potential.
The interview will be Behavioral/Experienced based questions. Prepare before hand to answer questions that start with: "Tell me about a time when you experienced....." The questions all relate to retail/customer service and communicating with your team or supervisor.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a time when you had to explain a complex feature, benefit, or program to a customer.
Tell me about a time when you turned a customer who was "just looking" in to a buyer.
I interviewed at Pier 1 Imports (Fort Collins, CO)
Interview
It was about 30 minutes long. The manager asked me basic questions about myself and the job. He wanted to know my availability and if I were able to unload the truck due to the boxes being heavy.
Simple and transparent process. After applying, was asked to come in to interview in person. Interview was professional and took around 45 minutes. Heard back from hiring manager within a week.
