I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Whole Foods Market (Elmhurst, IL) in Apr 2015
Interview
I applied online to several positions for the yet-to-be built Whole Foods location in Elmhurst. I was lucky to get many responses (all except one were nos, concerning my application status).
The positive response was a request from the team lead for the considered area asking 4 fairly specific question in regards to the position. I responsed per the deadline and was asked to come in less than a week later for an inperson interview.
The first interview was between myself, the department head and the specialty/wine buyer. They were very friendly -super family feeling as other posts have mentioned- and asked more department specific questions:
What would you pair with proscetto?
What is the difference between champagne and sparkling wine?
What would you do if you were busy at the cheese counter, wrapping a selection, when a customer approached you asking for help in another department?
What are you passionate about?
What is the difference between a Belgium Beer and a German Beer?
After a variety of questions like the ones before my interviewers asked a few more questions more geared to my responses. They then followed with some expectations in the role offered a Whole Foods. I was most impressed with their Anti-Layoff policy (meaning if there are not enough sales in your area they will transfer you to another department or local store instead of firing). After a few more comments they took a little time privately to discuss. I was informed I would be called over the next week per their decision.
Luckily I was called later that afternoon and asked to return the next day. Since then I have signed my hiring papers and am eagerly awaiting my first training day and the store's opening.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Why Whole Foods? Why did you apply?
What are you passionate about?
What would you pair with proscetto?
What is the difference between champagne and sparkling wine?
What would you do if you were busy at the cheese counter, wrapping a selection, when a customer approached you asking for help in another department?
What is the difference between a Belgium Beer and a German Beer?
What area would you be most suited for: Beer, Wine, Cheese or charcuterie?
I applied in-person. The process took 2 days. I interviewed at Whole Foods Market
Interview
Easy! Just answered questions and discussed what schedule would be like as I was initially working two jobs. Ended up leaving my previous to take on a full time position with Whole Foods and enjoyed my time there.
I interviewed at Whole Foods Market (New York, NY)
Interview
I first had a group interview with the manager of the department and someone else. Then called back to meet with the store manager and have second interview. Then offered position
I interviewed at Whole Foods Market (Los Angeles, CA)
Interview
I was mostly asked about basic questions on customer service, if you are able to work in a team, work availability flexibility. Wanted to know if you are already a bit familiar with the products. Not as difficult as I thought.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
If you don't know something about a product what would you do?