Top 9 REI Interview Questions & Answers (2024)

REI is a highly desirable place to work, not only for its competitive benefits but also for its commitment to employee personal growth and respect in the workplace. With over 160 retail locations and over 15,000 employees, REI has been recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the "100 Best Places to Work" for 23 years running. From Sales Specialists to Outdoor School Instructors, there are numerous roles available at REI.

The company's strong emphasis on balancing hard work with time off to enjoy the great outdoors reflects its mission to inspire, educate, and outfit its community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. As an employer, REI values authenticity, respect, and challenges. Potential candidates applying in the New York City metropolitan area can especially look forward to the public transit subsidy among other unique benefits.

If you're on the hunt for guidance to enhance your chances of securing a position with REI, our collection of articles can serve as valuable tools in your job search journey. For more insights and tips, explore content like how to land a job at REI, how to write the perfect resume, or how to write a great cover letter which could be the stepping stones toward your next career move.

Common REI Job Interview Questions

Let's explore some of the frequently asked questions in an REI job interview. These questions are divided into three categories: background-related, role-specific skills, and personality or character fit.

Background-Related Interview Questions

1. Can you describe your experience with outdoor activities and how it might relate to working at REI?
2. How will your previous job experiences contribute to your success in this role at REI?
3. What interests you most about REI and why do you want to work here?

Role-Specific Skills Interview Questions

1. REI prides itself on excellent customer service. Can you share an example from your previous work where you exceeded customer expectations?
2. Tell us about a time when you used your knowledge of outdoor equipment to make a recommendation to someone.
3. If a customer was planning a backpacking trip and needed gear recommendations, how would you assist them?

Personality or Character Fit Interview Questions

1. REI places a lot of value on work-life balance. How do you ensure you maintain this balance in your own life?
2. Describe how you handle feedback and criticism. Can you provide an example?
3. How do you see REI's commitment to outdoor stewardship aligning with your personal values?

As you prepare for your REI interview, remember that the company highly values outdoor experiences, excellent customer service, and a balance between work and personal life. Understanding REI's culture and mission will be invaluable as you consider your responses to these potential interview questions.

Question: Can you describe your experience with outdoor activities and how it might relate to working at REI?

This question is aimed at gauging your passion for the outdoors and understanding how it could translate into performance at REI. A company like REI, devoted to outdoor adventure and stewardship, would highly appreciate employees who share similar interests.

Example Answer 1: "I've always enjoyed being outdoors since my youth. My family often goes for hikes and camping trips which sparked my interest in outdoor activities. This hands-on experience has given me a deep understanding of outdoor gear usage, important while interacting with customers."

Example Answer 2: "As an avid rock climber and hiker, I have a first-hand understanding of the equipment needed for these activities. My experiences have enabled me to understand quality gear and its impact on outdoor activities. It's about more than selling; it's about helping customers make informed choices."

Analyzing these responses, it's clear that both demonstrate a genuine passion for outdoor activities - a key trait that REI values in its workforce. The first answer highlights lifelong engagement with outdoor activities, suggesting a broad understanding of various types of outdoor gear. The second focuses on specific hobbies, showing an in-depth knowledge of particular equipment types. Both responses connect personal experiences back to the job role at REI, showcasing how their firsthand knowledge can enhance their ability to serve customers.

Question: How will your previous job experiences contribute to your success in this role at REI?

REI is interested in learning how your past job experiences align with the responsibilities of the role you're applying for. They want to ascertain if your skills, behaviors, and knowledge from previous jobs can be transferred to succeed at REI.

Example Answer 1: "In my previous role as a sales associate at a sporting goods store, I honed my customer service skills and gained extensive product knowledge. This experience, coupled with my love for outdoor activities, makes me confident that I can succeed at REI."

Example Answer 2: "Through my work as an outdoor guide, I developed solid communication skills and learned how to cater services to individual client needs. I believe these experiences will allow me to thrive in a customer-centric environment like REI."

The first response emphasizes industry-related skills including customer service and product knowledge, which are critical in retail settings like REI. Meanwhile, the second response brings forward unique skills obtained from being an outdoor guide, implying that the candidate can provide personalized recommendations based on customer needs. Both answers show how the candidates' previous jobs prepared them for a successful career at REI.

Question: What interests you most about REI and why do you want to work here?

This question seeks to understand what drives your interest in REI specifically, and not just any other company. It provides an opportunity to showcase your understanding of REI's mission and values, demonstrating alignment between your personal motivations and the company's ethos.

Example Answer 1: "Two things stand out for me about REI. Firstly, its commitment to outdoor stewardship resonates with my personal philosophy of preserving the environment. Secondly, I admire REI's focus on work-life balance. I believe working here will not only allow me to support customers in their outdoor adventures but also continue pursuing mine."

Example Answer 2: "I am passionate about promoting an active lifestyle, and REI's mission to inspire people towards outdoor adventure perfectly aligns with my personal interests. Additionally, REI's reputation for exceptional customer service mirrors my own professional commitment to providing outstanding service."

Both responses clearly articulate the candidates' alignment with REI's mission and values. The first response underscores shared environmental consciousness and appreciation for work-life balance, reflecting REI's culture. The second response emphasizes shared commitment towards promoting an active lifestyle and high-quality customer service, core tenets of REI's operations. By drawing these connections, candidates demonstrate they're not merely interested in REI as a workplace but value and respect its underlying principles.

Question: REI prides itself on excellent customer service. Can you share an example from your previous work where you exceeded customer expectations?

This question is asked to understand your approach towards customer service and assess whether it aligns with REI's commitment to exceptional customer experience. Try to highlight a situation where you went above and beyond in assisting a customer, demonstrating your dedication to customer satisfaction.

Example Answer 1: "At my previous job, a shopper was looking for a product we had run out of. Rather than leaving it at that, I called other locations, found the product, and arranged a pickup for the customer."

Example Answer 2: "In my prior role, a customer needed help repairing a tent but was unable to bring it in. Understanding the issue over the phone, I guided them through the repair process step-by-step, ensuring their camping trip wasn't ruined."

The first response showcases a proactive approach, illustrating determination to meet customer needs even when faced with obstacles. The second answer demonstrates empathy and problem-solving skills, by taking the time to assist the customer remotely. Both responses underscore the interviewee’s commitment to providing excellent customer service, which resonates well with REI's emphasis on customer satisfaction.

Question: Tell us about a time when you used your knowledge of outdoor equipment to make a recommendation to someone.

REI values staff who are knowledgeable about outdoor gear and can provide expert advice. This question allows you to demonstrate your expertise in this area. When responding, discuss a specific scenario where you used your knowledge to guide someone in making the right choice.

Example Answer 1: "A friend was preparing for a winter hike and was unsure about footwear. I recommended insulated, waterproof hiking boots based on my understanding of cold-weather hikes."

Example Answer 2: "At my last job, a customer was buying a sleeping bag for a summer camping trip. Knowing about temperature ratings, I suggested a lightweight, higher-rated bag suitable for warmer weather."

The first response shows the candidate offering advice based on personal knowledge and experience, while the second response illustrates an understanding of product specifications and their application in real-world scenarios. Both answers show the candidate's ability to use their knowledge in recommending suitable products, which is crucial in a customer-facing role at REI.

Question: If a customer was planning a backpacking trip and needed gear recommendations, how would you assist them?

This question is designed to assess your competency in providing customized solutions based on individual needs - a key aspect of working at REI. You should demonstrate your knowledge of the various factors involved in planning a trip and the corresponding equipment requirements.

Example Answer 1: "I'd start by asking questions about the specifics: duration, location, season, and their experience level. Then, based on their responses, I’d recommend necessary gear such as the appropriate backpack, sleep system, cooking supplies, clothing, and safety equipment."

Example Answer 2: "First, I'd inquire about their trip details and if they have any existing gear. I'd then suggest essential items, focusing on weight and utility considering it's a backpacking trip. I’d also offer tips on packing efficiently."

In both responses, the candidates start by gathering information about the customer's needs before making recommendations, exhibiting an understanding of tailoring advice to individual circumstances. The first response displays comprehensive knowledge of various gear categories, while the second emphasizes the importance of weight and utility in backpacking gear. Both of these approaches align with REI's commitment to providing customers with personalized and informed product recommendations.

Question: REI places a lot of value on work-life balance. How do you ensure you maintain this balance in your own life?

Interviewers ask this question to understand if you can manage responsibilities and avoid burnout. They're interested in candidates who value their personal time, aligning with REI's culture that encourages employees to enjoy the outdoors and pursue personal interests.

Example Answer 1: "I ensure work-life balance by setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. After work hours, I disconnect from professional obligations and indulge in my hobbies like hiking and biking."

Example Answer 2: "Regular exercise is vital for me to maintain balance. It helps me destress and stay focused at work. Beyond that, spending quality outdoor time with family has always been my way of recharging."

The first response highlights the candidate's ability to create distinct boundaries between work and personal life, which is essential for maintaining balance. The second answer emphasizes physical health and family bonds, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of holistic well-being. Both responses show alignment with REI's emphasis on work-life balance and the company's passion for outdoor activities.

Question: Describe how you handle feedback and criticism. Can you provide an example?

This question is primarily intended to evaluate your ability to accept feedback and learn from it, which indicates your potential for growth and adaptability. REI values team players who can readily accept and act upon constructive criticism.

Example Answer 1: "I view feedback as a tool for growth. In my last job, my manager pointed out that I could improve my report preparation skills. I took it positively, enrolled in a course and improved significantly."

Example Answer 2: "Feedback helps me identify areas for improvement. For instance, a colleague once noted I wasn't delegating tasks effectively. I reflected on this, made adjustments, and saw an improvement in my team's efficiency."

Both responses show a positive attitude towards feedback and the desire to use it as a means of self-improvement. The first answer demonstrates a proactive approach to learning and the willingness to gain additional training when necessary. The second displays the ability to reflect on one's actions and make changes accordingly. These qualities are valued by REI, as they indicate a candidate's capacity for continuous development and teamwork.

Question: How do you see REI's commitment to outdoor stewardship aligning with your personal values?

This question gauges your understanding of REI's mission and your personal connection to it. REI is a company deeply committed to outdoor conservation and education, and they seek individuals who share these principles.

Example Answer 1: "My personal philosophy is 'leave no trace' whenever I'm outdoors. REI's dedication to preserving the natural environment resonates strongly with me."

Example Answer 2: "I believe in educating others about the outdoors, so REI’s commitment to outdoor stewardship is in line with my passion for sharing knowledge about nature conservation."

The first response directly relates the candidate's personal practice of care for the environment with REI's stance on outdoor stewardship. The second answer reveals the candidate's passion for education about nature conservation, which aligns with REI's mission to educate its community. Such responses indicate the candidate's cultural fit within the company, demonstrating a shared dedication to REI's core values.

Additional Tips for Preparing for an REI Interview

As you prepare for your interview with REI, it's important to remember that the company looks for individuals who not only have the required skills but also share their values. Understanding and conveying how your personal values align with REI's mission will set you apart.

You might consider researching extensively about REI, its culture, products, and its initiatives related to outdoor stewardship. Familiarizing yourself with these aspects can provide you with more context when answering questions and show your enthusiasm for the role.

Additionally, given that REI is a co-op with a strong community orientation, having experiences or interests in outdoor activities might be beneficial. You may want to communicate your passion for such activities and how they have shaped your skills, character, and values. Sharing personal stories that connect you with the outdoors could help establish a rapport and demonstrate that you are a good cultural fit.

Securing Your Place at REI

In this article, we've covered some of the commonly asked questions during an REI interview and provided guidance on framing effective responses. Not only are technical skills and experience important, but a deep alignment with REI's values can significantly enhance your candidacy.

Remember, REI seeks candidates who appreciate and maintain work-life balance, handle feedback constructively, and value outdoor stewardship. Conveying these qualities effectively during the interview process is crucial.

Preparing thoroughly for these questions, demonstrating your passion and alignment with REI's values, and showing your ability to contribute to REI’s culture and mission can help position you as a strong candidate for the role.