Top 9 Urban Outfitters Interview Questions & Answers (2024)

As an international retail staple, Urban Outfitters has emerged as a fashion force globally of late. The company does its best to combine modern clothing with urban flair, as the name suggests. It’s a niche that the company has fit in nicely over the years.

Though it’s originally Philly-based, Urban Outfitters has a significant storefront presence in nearby New York City. Opportunities in the retail stores abound for potential employees; these may be attractive for those looking for a steady retail job, or even for local college students trying to pay for rent.

Whether you’re interested in reading more to apply to the job or just curious, we’ll walk through what it’s like to interview at an Urban store in New York City. Note that these questions are largely focused on commonly-hired-for roles like Sales Associates, Store Managers, Visual Merchandisers, Buyers, and other similar in-store retail roles.

If you're on the hunt for more guidance after exploring Urban Outfitters career opportunities, we recommend reading our insights on how to land a job at Urban Outfitters, or discovering the keys to crafting how to write the perfect resume and how to write a great cover letter. For even more helpful tips on navigating your job search, you might be interested in our broader selection of career advice articles.

Common Urban Outfitters Job Interview Questions

Background related Interview Questions:

1. Can you tell us about your experiences in retail, especially in relation to trendy fashion and lifestyle brands like Urban Outfitters?
2. How has your background prepared you for the fast-paced nature of working in an Urban Outfitters store?
3. Why do you feel attracted to Urban Outfitters' aesthetic and how does it align with your personal style or interests?

Role-specific Skills Interview Questions:

1. If you're applying for a sales role, how would you approach a customer who seems unsure about a product?
2. For visual merchandisers: Can you describe a time when you had to create a visually appealing display under tight deadlines or limited resources?
3. As a potential store manager, how have you handled a situation where you had to manage staff shortages during peak shopping hours?

Question: Can you tell us about your experiences in retail, especially in relation to trendy fashion and lifestyle brands like Urban Outfitters?

Being retail-educated (or at least interested) is an important place to start your interview preparation. Often asked to make sure you are familiar with at least some fashion in particular, the “can you tell us about your experience(s)” question tries to weed out tire-kickers and uninterested applicants for the job.

It’s important to be prepared for this question. Doing some basic research up front (or even visiting a store yourself if you have time and focusing on what it might be like to work there) would help your answer to stand out in terms of its company-specificity.

Example Answer 1: "In my previous role at a boutique clothing store, I was responsible for customer service, merchandising, and inventory management. I have always been drawn to trendy fashion brands, which is why I think Urban Outfitters is a great fit for me. My experience serving a diverse clientele and managing fast-moving inventory would be beneficial here."

Example Answer 2: "Most of my retail experience comes from working for a large department store chain. While the scale is quite different, I found that staying on top of trends and effectively recommending products to customers were key responsibilities. I believe this knack for identifying trends would translate well to a brand like Urban Outfitters."

Understanding Urban Outfitters' brand identity is crucial to answering this question well. In the first example, the candidate draws parallels between their previous experience at a trendy boutique and the culture of Urban Outfitters. This not only shows the ability to transition their skills but also demonstrates an understanding of the company ethos. In the second example, the interviewee acknowledges the difference in scale, but emphasizes adaptable skills learned in a larger corporate setting. Both answers show the candidates can add value to Urban Outfitters using their diverse experiences.

Question: How has your background prepared you for the fast-paced nature of working in an Urban Outfitters store?

The purpose of this question is to get a sense of how well you handle high-pressure situations and quick decision-making. Urban Outfitters' stores can be hectic, especially during peak shopping times, and your interviewer wants to know that you can handle this environment.

Example Answer 1: "My background includes working in several fast-paced hospitality roles where I had to juggle multiple tasks at once while maintaining a high level of customer service. This has prepared me to manage the demands at an Urban Outfitters store."

Example Answer 2: "During my time in retail, seasonal peaks like Black Friday and holiday sales were always intense. However, I enjoyed the hustle and found it rewarding to help customers find what they needed despite the rush. It's prepared me to stay calm under pressure, something I would bring to Urban Outfitters."

The first example shows versatility from a different industry context, highlighting transferable skills such as multitasking and customer service. The second example provides a direct experience in the retail context, showing familiarity with the ebb and flow of busy periods. Both candidates demonstrate their ability to maintain composure and perform well in a fast-paced environment.

Question: Why do you feel attracted to Urban Outfitters' aesthetic and how does it align with your personal style or interests?

Interviewers ask this question to understand not just your fashion sense but also how well you identify with the brand. They want to ensure you can genuinely connect with the products and the customers who buy them.

Example Answer 1: "Urban Outfitters' blend of vintage and contemporary styles resonates with me - I have always appreciated the way the brand combines old and new into something uniquely fashionable. My personal style is similar; I love incorporating vintage pieces into modern outfits."

Example Answer 2: "I've always admired Urban Outfitters for its bold, eclectic approach to fashion. It reflects my taste for experimenting with different styles and trends. Additionally, I'm drawn to the brand's commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity."

The first response indicates a direct alignment with the brand aesthetic, demonstrating an understanding of Urban Outfitters' style. The second response not only aligns with the aesthetic but also brings in the brand's values, showing appreciation for the wider ethos of the company. Both answers demonstrate that the candidates understand and identify with the brand on a deeper level.

Question: If you're applying for a sales role, how would you approach a customer who seems unsure about a product?

This question is asked to gauge your sales approach, empathy, and understanding of the customers' needs. It helps the interviewer understand how you facilitate a positive shopping experience and help customers make informed decisions.

Example Answer 1: "I would start by asking open-ended questions to understand their concerns about the product. Then, I'd use that information to address their doubts directly, possibly suggesting alternative products if necessary."

Example Answer 2: "I would approach them with a friendly demeanor and offer assistance. If they seem hesitant about a product, I’d share additional details or personal experiences which might help them feel more confident in their decision."

The first response showcases a problem-solving approach, indicating an ability to listen to customers' concerns and address them efficiently. The second response focuses on creating a connection with the customer through shared experiences and product knowledge. Both responses demonstrate the candidates' proactive attitude and commitment to providing excellent customer service.

Question: For visual merchandisers: Can you describe a time when you had to create a visually appealing display under tight deadlines or limited resources?

This question is designed to test your creativity, resourcefulness, and ability to work under pressure. Your answer should demonstrate how you manage constraints without sacrificing the quality of your work.

Example Answer 1: "I once had to set up a window display for a seasonal promotion with minimal resources. Instead of focusing on what we didn't have, I leveraged the items we did - arranging them creatively and using bold signs to attract attention."

Example Answer 2: "During a previous holiday season, our shipment of decorations was delayed. We improvised by repurposing existing store materials and crafting DIY ornaments. The result was unique and appreciated by customers for its originality."

The first example shows the candidate's ability to work with limited resources while maintaining a positive attitude. This demonstrates resilience and creativity - key traits for visual merchandisers. The second example further shows ingenuity and a hands-on approach, turning an obstacle into an opportunity to create something original. Both responses convey the candidates' ability to stay cool under pressure and deliver results.

Question: As a potential store manager, how have you handled a situation where you had to manage staff shortages during peak shopping hours?

This question seeks to understand your leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and resource management. It's crucial to show that you can maintain store operations and customer service standards, even when facing challenges such as staff shortages.

Example Answer 1: "Once when we were short-staffed during a holiday rush, I rearranged the schedule to ensure coverage in critical areas and stepped in myself to assist with checkout duties. We managed to serve all customers promptly despite the shortage."

Example Answer 2: "In a similar situation, I prioritized tasks based on urgency, delegated responsibilities, and cross-trained some employees on different roles. This flexibility allowed us to manage the rush effectively."

The first answer shows adaptability and a willingness to step in and contribute directly to meet customer needs. The second response demonstrates strategic thinking and effective team management by redistributing tasks and promoting versatility among the team members. Both answers reflect valuable leadership qualities for a store manager role at Urban Outfitters.

Additional Tips for Urban Outfitters Interview Preparation

Urban Outfitters tries to be somewhat unique while still fitting on busy fashion streets as a clothing brand tailored for the younger, hipper crowd. Knowing that up front is immediately helpful for an Urban Outfitters interview.

We suggest browsing the company website—or even visiting a store in-person, if you can—in order to understand more of what UO is all about. The target younger audience is slightly different than more stoic, more established legacy brands that might be next door. As a result, it’s actually okay to stand out from the crowd in terms of personality and vibe in your interviews with the company.

While this guide covered interview questions in particular, that’s not the only way to be more prepared for your interview—or even getting an interview in the first place with Urban Outfitters. Fitting your resume bullet points to fit more with the Urban Outfitters brand and culture would also increase your chances considerably in getting a role with the company.