Stockers are required to utilize devices to input goods into the inventory management system. Handheld scanners are one of the most common pieces of equipment that one will use in their day-to-day routine. The ideal candidate will have familiarity using this tool to identify items and document stock quantities. The applicant’s response to this answer will allow you to gauge how much experience they have as a stocker. What to look for in an answer:

• Ability to utilize a handheld scanner
• Understands the importance of documenting stock quantities and correctly identifying merchandise
• Experience as a stocker

There are difficult customers in all types of stores; however, the ideal candidate will have previously encountered stressful situations involving customers and will have handled these incidents smoothly. The applicant’s response to this question will allow you to gauge what types of events they consider challenging. Focus on the individual’s ability to resolve issues quickly. Were they able to come to a solution that resulted in a positive experience for the shopper? What to look for in an answer:

• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Experience dealing with demanding customers

The main duty of this position is to stock merchandise throughout the store. The ideal candidate will have experience with the types of displays your company uses in your establishment. Has the applicant set up end-caps at a past job? Do they know how to properly follow planograms designed by upper management or companies of premium products? The individual should be confident in their stocking abilities. What to look for in an answer:

• Decision-making skills
• Confidence in oneself
• Ability to follow planograms

It is common for merchandise to get damaged in the store whether by a customer or an employee. Depending on the establishment, some items might expire and need to be disposed of after a certain date. The ideal applicant will know how to identify goods that can no longer be sold and have the tools available to report them. What to look for in an answer:

• Critical thinking skills
• Experience reporting damaged and expired goods
• Time-management skills

When putting items on a shelf, a stocker might notice that the item does not accurately match with its label or the pricing may be wrong. The ideal applicant will understand the importance of promptly notifying all document discrepancies and price errors to upper management as this issue greatly impacts customers. Were there steps that the individual had to take to inform their manager? What to look for in an answer:

• Excellent communication skills
• Understands the importance of informing management about document discrepancies
• Experience with price errors

Employees often have individually assigned tasks to complete, particularly during shift work. However, an ideal candidate should recognize that the best work and quality company culture comes from working collaboratively and supportively. A candidate's response to this question can reveal their character and values. An applicant's response can help you gauge their observational skills and how well they read others. You should be able to see if they take initiative and whether they have any leadership or managerial skills. Additionally, an ideal candidate's response can reveal their experience in stocking and how effective they are with managing time and resources.

The candidate's response should emphasize:

• Readiness to help
• Initiative
• Focus on teamwork

An answer to this question may look something like this: