Top 30 Most Common Target Video Interview Questions You Should Prepare For
Written by
James Miller, Career Coach
Introduction
Facing a Target video interview can feel daunting, but thorough preparation is key to success. Target utilizes video interviews as an efficient way to screen candidates for various roles, assessing not only your skills and experience but also your cultural fit with the company values, such as customer service, teamwork, and community engagement. This format allows recruiters to evaluate your communication style, confidence, and ability to think on your feet from the comfort of your own space. Understanding the typical Target video interview questions will help you articulate your qualifications effectively and showcase why you are the ideal candidate. This comprehensive guide covers the top 30 questions you are likely to encounter, providing insights into why they are asked, how to structure your answers, and example responses to help you practice and perform confidently during your Target video interview. Preparing for these common questions will significantly boost your readiness and increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process for your desired role at Target.
What Are Target Video Interviews?
Target video interviews are part of the initial screening process used by the company to evaluate potential candidates remotely. Instead of a face-to-face meeting or a phone call, you will typically record your answers to a set of pre-determined Target interview questions using a webcam or smartphone. This asynchronous format allows both candidates and recruiters flexibility in scheduling. You usually have a set time limit for each answer and may not be able to re-record your responses. The questions are designed to assess your relevant skills, behavioral competencies, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with Target's values and culture. It's crucial to treat a Target video interview with the same professionalism as an in-person meeting, ensuring you are in a quiet space with good lighting and a stable internet connection.
Why Do Interviewers Ask These Questions?
Target interviewers ask a variety of questions, including behavioral, situational, and competency-based ones, to gain a holistic view of a candidate. They want to understand how you have handled past situations, which is often the best predictor of future performance. Questions about customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving are particularly important for retail roles as they reflect daily challenges and necessary skills. Questions about your knowledge of Target and reasons for wanting to work there assess your genuine interest and whether you've done your research. Behavioral questions, often answered using the STAR method, help evaluate your soft skills and how you react under pressure or in difficult circumstances. Ultimately, these Target video interview questions help the hiring team determine if you possess the required qualifications, fit the company culture, and would be a valuable addition to the team.
Preview List
Tell us about yourself.
What do you know about Target?
Why do you want to work at Target?
Describe a time you faced a challenge at work and how you handled it.
How do you handle difficult customers?
Tell us about a time you worked successfully in a team.
How do you prioritize your work when handling multiple tasks?
What does good customer service mean to you?
How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment?
Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
What are your strengths?
What is your greatest weakness?
How do you handle feedback?
Describe a time when you had to deal with a conflict at work.
How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks?
Tell us about a time you made a mistake at work.
What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
How do you manage stress?
Describe your availability and flexibility for shifts.
Why should we hire you?
How do you ensure accuracy in your work?
Describe a situation where you took initiative.
How do you handle feedback from supervisors?
Tell me about a time you had to learn a new skill quickly.
How do you contribute to a positive team environment?
What are your career goals?
How do you handle difficult coworkers?
What do you know about Target’s products and services?
How do you deal with busy or stressful days?
Tell us about a time you received great customer feedback.
1. Tell us about yourself.
Why you might get asked this:
To get an overview of your background, relevant experience, and how it aligns with the role you are applying for at Target. It's your chance to make a strong first impression.
How to answer:
Focus on experience and skills relevant to the job. Mention your motivation and connect it to Target's mission or values. Keep it concise and professional.
Example answer:
I have two years in customer service, focusing on meeting guest needs and ensuring positive experiences. I excel in team settings and consistently achieve targets. I'm drawn to Target's values and believe my skills fit well with this opportunity.
2. What do you know about Target?
Why you might get asked this:
To gauge your interest level and see if you've researched the company, its values, products, or recent initiatives. Shows you are serious about the opportunity.
How to answer:
Highlight Target's reputation, commitment to quality, community involvement, or sustainability efforts. Show you understand its place as a leading retailer.
Example answer:
Target is known for excellent customer service and a wide product range. I appreciate its focus on sustainability and community, which reflects the type of company I want to support and grow with.
3. Why do you want to work at Target?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand your motivation for applying and how the role at Target fits into your career goals. Evaluates your genuine interest in the company.
How to answer:
Connect your skills and goals with Target’s mission and the specific role. Mention aspects of Target’s culture or values that attract you.
Example answer:
I admire Target's commitment to guests and community. Its inclusive culture and sustainability efforts align with my values. I believe this role lets me use my skills while contributing positively to the team.
4. Describe a time you faced a challenge at work and how you handled it.
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to handle pressure. Evaluates how you approach and resolve difficult situations professionally.
How to answer:
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Describe a specific challenge, your role, the actions you took, and the positive outcome or what you learned.
Example answer:
During a system outage, checkout lines grew long. My task was managing guest frustration. I calmly informed guests, organized manual checkout, reducing wait times, and maintained a positive atmosphere, keeping satisfaction high despite the issue.
5. How do you handle difficult customers?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your interpersonal skills, patience, and ability to de-escalate situations while maintaining excellent customer service standards.
How to answer:
Emphasize active listening, empathy, remaining calm, and finding solutions. Mention when you would escalate the issue if necessary.
Example answer:
I listen patiently without interruption to understand their issue fully. I empathize with their frustration and then offer clear solutions. My goal is always to resolve their problem politely and effectively.
6. Tell us about a time you worked successfully in a team.
Why you might get asked this:
To evaluate your collaboration skills, ability to communicate effectively, and how you contribute to group goals. Teamwork is essential in retail.
How to answer:
Share a specific example using the STAR method. Highlight your role in the team, how you contributed to communication, supported others, and helped achieve a positive outcome.
Example answer:
On a recent store display project, I collaborated closely with teammates, coordinating tasks and openly communicating progress. This teamwork ensured we completed the setup efficiently and effectively, meeting the deadline ahead of schedule.
7. How do you prioritize your work when handling multiple tasks?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your organizational skills, time management, and ability to stay focused and productive in a busy environment like a Target store.
How to answer:
Describe your method for managing tasks, such as creating lists, assessing urgency, and focusing on high-priority items first. Mention flexibility.
Example answer:
I create a clear task list, assessing the urgency and potential impact of each item. I tackle high-priority tasks first while remaining adaptable to adjust priorities as needed throughout the day to ensure efficiency.
8. What does good customer service mean to you?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand your definition of customer service and ensure it aligns with Target’s guest-focused philosophy. Shows your commitment to providing positive experiences.
How to answer:
Define it in terms of meeting needs, being attentive, providing friendly and efficient service, and making customers feel valued.
Example answer:
Good customer service means being attentive, understanding the guest's needs, and providing timely, friendly, and helpful support to ensure they have a positive and satisfying shopping experience every time.
9. How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your ability to perform effectively under pressure, manage your time, and maintain accuracy and quality when things are busy.
How to answer:
Emphasize your ability to stay calm, organized, focused, and efficient. Mention effective communication with your team to manage workload.
Example answer:
I thrive in fast-paced settings by staying organized, prioritizing tasks effectively, and maintaining focus. I communicate proactively with my team to ensure everyone is aligned and we manage busy periods smoothly and efficiently.
10. Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
Why you might get asked this:
To see a specific example of your initiative, dedication, and commitment to creating exceptional customer experiences. Shows your willingness to exceed expectations.
How to answer:
Share a STAR method example where you took extra steps to solve a customer's problem or fulfill their need, resulting in their satisfaction.
Example answer:
A guest needed a specific item for an event that was out of stock. I called nearby stores, located it, and arranged for them to hold it, ensuring the guest could get it on time and was very grateful for the extra effort.
11. What are your strengths?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand what you believe you excel at and how those skills are relevant to the demands of the role at Target.
How to answer:
Choose 2-3 strengths directly applicable to the job, such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, reliability, or attention to detail. Provide brief examples.
Example answer:
My key strengths are strong communication, which helps me interact effectively with guests and teammates, and attention to detail, ensuring tasks are completed accurately, contributing to a smooth operation.
12. What is your greatest weakness?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your self-awareness and willingness to improve. The goal is not to find a perfect candidate but one who is reflective and proactive about personal development.
How to answer:
Mention a real, non-critical weakness and explain concrete steps you are taking to improve it. Frame it positively, focusing on growth.
Example answer:
I can be quite critical of my own work, sometimes spending extra time on details. I am actively working on setting realistic time limits and trusting my initial work more to balance thoroughness with efficiency.
13. How do you handle feedback?
Why you might get asked this:
To determine your coachability and openness to constructive criticism. Shows your willingness to learn and grow professionally based on input from others.
How to answer:
Express that you welcome feedback as an opportunity to learn and improve. Describe how you listen actively, ask clarifying questions, and implement suggestions.
Example answer:
I see feedback as a valuable tool for growth. I listen carefully, ask clarifying questions to fully understand, and make a conscious effort to apply the suggestions I receive to improve my performance.
14. Describe a time when you had to deal with a conflict at work.
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your conflict resolution skills, professionalism, and ability to navigate disagreements constructively while maintaining positive working relationships.
How to answer:
Use the STAR method. Focus on your communication, willingness to understand other perspectives, and finding a mutually acceptable solution professionally.
Example answer:
There was a minor scheduling conflict with a colleague regarding overlapping tasks. We discussed it calmly, shared our priorities, and found a simple compromise that allowed both of us to complete our work effectively without disruption.
15. How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand your work ethic and ability to maintain focus and productivity even when performing routine duties, which are common in retail roles.
How to answer:
Talk about focusing on the importance of the task (e.g., accuracy for guest satisfaction), setting small goals, or maintaining a positive internal dialogue.
Example answer:
I focus on the purpose of the task, like how accurate stocking improves the guest experience. Setting small, achievable goals helps me stay engaged and maintain a sense of accomplishment throughout repetitive duties.
16. Tell us about a time you made a mistake at work.
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your honesty, accountability, and ability to learn from errors. Shows you can take responsibility and implement changes to prevent recurrence.
How to answer:
Describe a specific, non-damaging mistake. Take responsibility, explain what you learned from it, and what steps you now take to avoid similar errors.
Example answer:
I once mispriced an item during a busy shift. I immediately corrected it when I realized my error and now always double-check pricing during setup to ensure accuracy and avoid similar guest inconvenience.
17. What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
Why you might get asked this:
Target values diversity and inclusion. This question assesses your understanding and commitment to working respectfully and effectively with people from all backgrounds.
How to answer:
Express your belief in the value of diverse perspectives and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected and included regardless of background.
Example answer:
Diversity and inclusion mean creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. It fosters innovation and makes the workplace stronger and more welcoming for all.
18. How do you manage stress?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand your coping mechanisms and ability to remain calm and effective during busy or high-pressure situations common in a retail environment.
How to answer:
Share healthy strategies like prioritization, taking short breaks, staying organized, focusing on the task at hand, or seeking support from colleagues.
Example answer:
I manage stress by staying organized and prioritizing my tasks, focusing on one thing at a time. When things get busy, taking a moment to breathe helps me stay calm and maintain focus on providing excellent service.
19. Describe your availability and flexibility for shifts.
Why you might get asked this:
To understand how your availability matches the needs of the role and the store's operating hours. Honesty is key here.
How to answer:
Clearly state your general availability (days, times) and mention any flexibility you have regarding shifts, weekends, or holidays if applicable.
Example answer:
I am available evenings and weekends and have flexibility during the week to cover different shifts as needed. I am willing to work overtime if necessary to support the team and store needs.
20. Why should we hire you?
Why you might get asked this:
This is your opportunity to summarize your key qualifications, enthusiasm, and fit for the role and Target. It's a concise pitch of your value proposition.
How to answer:
Briefly reiterate your most relevant skills, experience, and positive attributes. Express your enthusiasm for working at Target and how you will contribute to the team's success.
Example answer:
You should hire me because I bring strong customer service skills, a proactive approach, and a commitment to teamwork. I'm enthusiastic about contributing to Target's guest-focused environment and believe I would quickly become a valuable asset.
21. How do you ensure accuracy in your work?
Why you might get asked this:
Accuracy is crucial in retail, whether handling transactions, managing inventory, or stocking shelves. This question assesses your attention to detail.
How to answer:
Describe your methods for checking your work, paying close attention to details, verifying information, and asking questions if you are unsure about something.
Example answer:
I ensure accuracy by paying close attention to details, double-checking my work before considering it complete, and always verifying information or asking a colleague or supervisor if I am unsure about a task or procedure.
22. Describe a situation where you took initiative.
Why you might get asked this:
To see if you are proactive and willing to go beyond your assigned duties to improve processes, help others, or solve problems without being explicitly asked.
How to answer:
Use the STAR method to share an example where you identified a need or opportunity and took action to address it, explaining the positive impact of your initiative.
Example answer:
I noticed a frequently misplaced item on the sales floor causing guest confusion. I took initiative to create a simple, clear sign directing guests to the correct location, which improved guest experience and reduced inquiries.
23. How do you handle feedback from supervisors?
Why you might get asked this:
Similar to handling general feedback, this assesses your receptiveness to direction and coaching from management, important for professional growth within Target.
How to answer:
Explain that you view supervisor feedback as essential for performance improvement. Describe how you actively listen, seek clarification, and apply their guidance to enhance your work.
Example answer:
I value feedback from supervisors highly. I listen attentively to their guidance, ask questions to ensure I fully understand their expectations, and actively apply their suggestions to improve my performance and contribute effectively to the team's goals.
24. Tell me about a time you had to learn a new skill quickly.
Why you might get asked this:
Retail environments often require employees to quickly adapt to new technologies, procedures, or product information. This assesses your learning agility.
How to answer:
Use the STAR method. Describe the skill needed, the timeframe, your learning process (e.g., asking questions, practicing), and the successful outcome.
Example answer:
When our store introduced a new mobile checkout system, I needed to learn it quickly. I practiced during downtime, asked colleagues questions, and by the next day, I was confidently processing guest transactions smoothly.
25. How do you contribute to a positive team environment?
Why you might get asked this:
Target values teamwork and a positive workplace culture. This question assesses your interpersonal skills and willingness to support your colleagues.
How to answer:
Share examples of how you support teammates, communicate effectively, offer help, maintain a positive attitude, and contribute to a collaborative atmosphere.
Example answer:
I contribute by maintaining open and positive communication, offering help to teammates when they need it, and actively listening to support their efforts. I believe a positive attitude is contagious and helps everyone work better together.
26. What are your career goals?
Why you might get asked this:
To understand your ambitions and see if your long-term goals align with potential growth opportunities within Target or the retail industry. Shows your commitment to the field.
How to answer:
Discuss goals related to developing relevant skills, taking on more responsibility, or advancing within the retail sector. If applicable, mention potential growth within Target specifically.
Example answer:
My immediate goal is to excel in this role at Target and build strong skills in customer service and team collaboration. Long-term, I aim to take on more responsibility and potentially grow into a leadership position within Target.
27. How do you handle difficult coworkers?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your ability to maintain professionalism and work effectively even when faced with personality clashes or disagreements with colleagues.
How to answer:
Focus on professional communication, seeking to understand their perspective, focusing on shared work goals, and addressing issues directly and respectfully, or involving a supervisor if necessary.
Example answer:
I aim to maintain professional and respectful communication. If an issue arises, I try to address it directly with the coworker, focusing on finding a solution that benefits our shared work goals while seeking to understand their perspective.
28. What do you know about Target’s products and services?
Why you might get asked this:
To assess your basic knowledge of what Target offers, demonstrating that you have researched the company beyond just the job description and understand its business model.
How to answer:
Mention key product categories (groceries, apparel, home goods, electronics) and notable services like Order Pickup, Drive Up, or delivery options, highlighting convenience and variety.
Example answer:
Target offers a broad range of products from everyday essentials and groceries to apparel and home goods, known for quality and affordability. I'm also familiar with their convenient services like Order Pickup and Drive Up.
29. How do you deal with busy or stressful days?
Why you might get asked this:
Similar to managing stress, this question specifically addresses handling peak times or unexpected challenges common in retail, assessing your ability to perform under pressure.
How to answer:
Reinforce your strategies like prioritization, organization, staying focused on tasks, and maintaining clear communication with your team to navigate demanding periods effectively.
Example answer:
On busy days, I stay focused on my assigned tasks, prioritize based on urgency, and maintain clear communication with my team to ensure we are working together effectively. Staying organized helps me manage the workload calmly.
30. Tell us about a time you received great customer feedback.
Why you might get asked this:
To hear about a specific instance where your service positively impacted a customer and to see what you consider successful in customer interaction.
How to answer:
Share a STAR method example detailing the situation, what you did, and the specific positive feedback you received. Explain why it was meaningful to you.
Example answer:
A guest praised my patience and effort in helping her find multiple specific items for a large event. Hearing that my assistance made her planning easier and less stressful was very rewarding and reinforced my commitment to attentive service.
Other Tips to Prepare for a Target Video Interview
Preparing thoroughly for your Target video interview goes beyond just scripting answers. Ensure your technical setup is reliable – test your camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background to minimize distractions. Dress professionally, as you would for an in-person interview. Practice recording yourself answering common questions to get comfortable with the format and monitor your body language, eye contact (look at the camera!), and tone of voice. "Practicing your delivery can make a big difference in how confident you appear," notes one career expert. Research Target's recent news, initiatives, and company values to tailor your answers and show genuine interest. Consider using tools like Verve AI Interview Copilot (https://vervecopilot.com) to practice answering questions and get personalized feedback on your responses, helping you refine your answers and boost your confidence. Remember to listen carefully to each Target interview question and take a moment to compose your thoughts before speaking. Verve AI Interview Copilot offers mock interview practice specifically designed to prepare you for various interview scenarios, including those common in Target interviews. Utilize resources like Verve AI Interview Copilot to rehearse and feel fully prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does a Target video interview take?
A1: Typically, it involves answering a set number of questions, with a time limit (e.g., 1-3 minutes) per answer, usually totaling 15-30 minutes.
Q2: Can I pause or re-record during the interview?
A2: Most asynchronous video interview platforms do not allow re-recording; you get one chance per question within the time limit. Pausing varies by platform.
Q3: What attire is recommended for a Target video interview?
A3: Dress professionally, as you would for an in-person interview. Business casual is usually appropriate for most Target roles.
Q4: Should I use the STAR method for behavioral questions?
A4: Yes, the STAR method is highly recommended for behavioral questions as it provides a clear, structured way to tell a relevant story about your experience.
Q5: How important is knowing about Target's values?
A5: Very important. Target values like community, diversity, and customer focus are central; aligning your answers with them shows cultural fit.
Q6: What if I have technical issues during the interview?
A6: Contact the Target recruiter or HR representative immediately to inform them of the issue and ask for guidance on rescheduling or resolving the problem.
