Looking for your next e-commerce job? It’s a competitive field, with more and more stores opening online everyday. The reliance on web-based store fronts and expectation of an exceptional online user experience is pushing e-commerce businesses to find and hire industry superstars—do you have what it takes?
The truth is, companies want highly qualified and innovative candidates who are just as passionate about the success of the business as they are! Be ready to bring energy and enthusiasm to your interview, plus practice answers to the questions you’ll likely encounter. By investing plenty of time in preparation, you’ll help yourself to be much more confident come interview day.
Ten e-commerce interview questions and answers
As you get ready for your next interview, practice your answers to the following:
- So, tell me about yourself. No matter what position you’re interviewing for, you’re bound to be asked this question. It’s a common opener to an interview, because it helps to break the ice… but don’t be fooled, because your interviewer isn’t looking for your life story. Instead, be ready with a summary of your career thus far—your education, why you chose this field, where you’ve worked and what you’ve accomplished. It’s also good to describe why you’re passionate about what you do.
- Why do you want to work here/why should we hire you? Always review the job description and pick out what excites you the most about the open position. And take time to do a little research of the company—how does their mission align with your own? What’s interesting that they’ve accomplished or that they’re currently working on? Prove to the interviewer that you’re not just applying for any old job—you want to work THERE.
- What do you like about our business, and what don’t you like? Innovative minds can pick out what’s working, what’s not and what could be improved. This question shows you’ve done your research and you can think of ways to make the product even better. Never be insulting, but provide an honest, constructive assessment of your impression of the company.
- What would you change about what you don’t like? / How can our company improve the customer experience? You obviously don’t have the inside scoop on the company, but it helps to gain experience with the product or service before your interview. As a consumer, visit the website, try the product if possible and form an opinion of the e-commerce process. Based on your own hands-on experience and your professional knowledge of the e-commerce industry, what recommendations would you make?
- Describe a professional challenge and how you overcame it. This question is a test of your creativity and critical thinking skills, plus how you get along with coworkers (if your challenge is related to a difficult coworker). The interviewer is looking to see if you’re flexible and adaptable, plus how you deal with pressure. Keep your answer positive and describe the process you followed to problem solve, plus what you learned.
- What’s a good example of a superior digital experience? How much do you know about e-commerce? Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the world of e-commerce, you can answer this question based on how well you keep up with trends.
- What’s one career accomplishment you’re most proud of? This is your turn to brag. If you’ve accomplished big things, now’s the time to mention them. Or you can showcase your career passion by mentioning something that was meaningful in your career so far.
- Where do you see e-commerce tech innovation trending? What’s the future of e-commerce? Your insight into the future of the field can show your ability to forecast potential needs, how to apply your skills and what new skills you could learn. Your answer to this question shows that you pay attention to the industry and are always looking to grow in your role.
- What are your hobbies and interests/what do you do for fun? Your future employer wants to know you’re a human being, not an e-commerce robot. The activities you do in your free time can also give a glimpse into what you value. The best answers show that you spend time learning and improving yourself (for example, physical fitness, nutrition, reading, taking a class, etc.).
- Where do you see yourself in five years? An employer doesn’t want to hire someone who may not stick around. Your five-year plan should include the company to which you’re applying.
Practice, practice, practice
Rehearse these and other popular interview questions with a friend or family member to help you prepare for the big day. Then, get your interview outfit ready and go get ‘em!
Jarvis Cole can help
If you’re in search of an e-commerce job, check out Jarvis Cole. We specialize in the e-commerce market and will work with you to find a new job you love. To learn more, contact us today!