I applied online. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (Lynnwood, WA) in Sep 2024
Interview
After applying online, I was invited to call the store and schedule an in-person interview with a Mate (mid-level manager.) He met me in the store and the interview was held outside at a picnic table at the back of the store near the dumpsters. I would describe the conversation as business casual - not overly serious or intense, but not silly or too informal. The Mate who interviewed me was kind and followed a standard interview format that he had printed out along with my application materials. At the end of the interview he scheduled me for a 2nd interview a couple of days later with a different Mate than the first interview. I participated and that interview was similar to the first. I did not hear back from this store either with an offer or update. This isn't uncommon in hiring unfortunately, but it was a bit disappointing since TJ's has such a great focus on customer service.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe how you handled a difficult situation or conflict.
The interview process was absolutely wonderful! I didn't feel stressed or nervous and it felt like I was just chatting with a friend! Trader Joes is a great company and the interview was great.
Very chill, asked things a lot of job interviews don't, more personal down to earth questions. Made me feel very comfortable. Professional but also cool vibes from everyone who interviewed me. Went to one interview with mates and another with the captain.
I had 3 separate interviews. 1 was over the phone. 2 were in person. I never heard anything after the third interview. I called the store about a week later and they let me know they didn’t actually have any available positions. Really felt like they wasted my time.