The interview was challenging but also relaxed. The questions made me think, and I felt like I had to be on point, but not like I was on the spot. I think this is because of the company culture. They were quick to mention that they put an emphasis on work-life balance. The interview lasted about 45 minutes to an hour, and about halfway through the manager and associate and I really clicked. We went through all of the interview questions but also just chatted. We talked about opportunities for growth, advancement, and learning, and I was glad to hear there were other positions to promote into besides sales. The subject of professionalism came up and we talked about how valuable it is to carry yourself as a professional, but also be genuine. The phrase "keepin' it real," was actually used more than once. I wasn't interviewing for a sales position, but I liked that, at least at this store, they valued teamwork when it came to meeting sales metrics, rather than pitting all of the salespeople against each other. I had a second interview which was similar. Both managers I interviewed with had been with the company over ten years and both said they were happy with the company. Overall, I just got the sense that this is a good company for someone like me who is eager to learn and advance, but not so eager to have to change their personality for the job. I accepted the job as soon as they offered it to me and everyone has been very helpful and genuine so far. I guess they really were keepin' it real.

I filled out the application online and was called in to interview about two weeks later. The interview was laid back, but the questions were difficult for me. They asked a lot of situation specific questions. Be ready to recount your previous work experience and to think on your feet.