Cashier interview questions and answers

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17 good cashier interview questions

1. What other customer-facing experience do you have?
2. Describe your experience with cash-handling.
3. This job involves repetitive tasks. How do you stay motivated?
4. Walk us through a typical day at your last job. What were your responsibilities?
5. Tell us about a time you made a suggestion that saved time, money, or improved revenue.
6. What would you do if you knew that you would be extremely late for your shift?
7. How would you deal with a co-worker who wasn’t doing their share of the work?
8. What would you do if you had a slow day at work? How would you spend your time?
9. Describe a time you had a disagreement with your supervisor. How did you resolve the situation?
10. A customer tries to combine two offers that cannot be combined. How would you handle it?
11. [Suggested by real hiring managers] How many years have you been a cashier?
12. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Would say you have good customer service skills?
13. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Have you had been accused of theft at other cashier positions?
14. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Would you take accountability for anything that goes missing in the cashier?
15. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Would you say you’re good at math?
16. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Are you willing to take a drug test for this position?
17. [Suggested by real hiring managers] How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

Here are 17 essential interview questions and sample answers to help identify the best candidates for this role.

1. What other customer-facing experience do you have?

This question helps to understand the candidate’s experience in dealing with customers, which is crucial for a cashier role.

Sample answer:

“In my previous job as a barista, I interacted with customers daily. I took their orders, made small talk, and ensured they had a pleasant experience.”

2. Describe your experience with cash-handling.

This question aims to gauge the candidate’s familiarity and comfort level with handling money, which is a key part of the cashier role.

Sample answer:

“I’ve worked as a cashier for two years at a grocery store where I was responsible for cash transactions, giving change, and balancing the till.”

3. This job involves repetitive tasks. How do you stay motivated?

This question assesses the candidate’s ability to maintain focus and enthusiasm in a job that can be monotonous.

Sample answer:

“I find satisfaction in doing my job well, even if it’s repetitive. I also try to make small improvements to make the task more efficient.”

4. Walk us through a typical day at your last job. What were your responsibilities?

This question provides insight into the candidate’s previous experience and how well they managed their responsibilities.

Sample answer:

“My day started with counting the cash in the drawer. Throughout the day, I handled customer transactions, answered queries, and kept my workspace clean.”

5. Tell us about a time you made a suggestion that saved time, money, or improved revenue.

This question evaluates the candidate’s problem-solving and initiative skills.

Sample answer:

“I noticed we were using a lot of plastic bags, so I suggested we encourage customers to bring their own. We offered a small discount as an incentive, which reduced costs and was well-received.”

6. What would you do if you knew that you would be extremely late for your shift?

This question tests the candidate’s sense of responsibility and communication skills.

Sample answer:

“I would call my supervisor as soon as possible to let them know and provide an estimated time of arrival. I’d also apologize for any inconvenience caused.”

7. How would you deal with a co-worker who wasn’t doing their share of the work?

This question assesses the candidate’s teamwork and conflict-resolution skills.

Sample answer:

“I would first try to talk to the co-worker to see if there’s a reason for their lack of contribution. If that doesn’t work, I’d consult with my supervisor.”

8. What would you do if you had a slow day at work? How would you spend your time?

This question gauges the candidate’s initiative and productivity when not directly supervised.

Sample answer:

“I would take the opportunity to restock shelves, clean the workspace, or perhaps learn more about new products so I can better assist customers.”

9. Describe a time you had a disagreement with your supervisor. How did you resolve the situation?

This question evaluates the candidate’s communication and conflict-resolution skills.

Sample answer:

“I disagreed with my supervisor about the way a promotion was being advertised. I presented my case respectfully, backed by data, and we found a compromise.”

10. A customer tries to combine two offers that cannot be combined. How would you handle it?

This question tests the candidate’s customer service skills and adherence to company policies.

Sample answer:

“I would politely inform the customer that the offers can’t be combined, but I’d try to find another way to give them value, like pointing out other promotions.”

11. How many years have you been a cashier?

This question aims to gauge the candidate’s level of experience in cashier roles.

Sample answer:

“I have been a cashier for [number of years]. During this time, I have honed my skills in cash handling, customer service, and maintaining accuracy in transactions.”

12. Would you say you have good customer service skills?

This question assesses the candidate’s perception of their own customer service abilities, which are crucial in a cashier role.

Sample answer:

“Yes, I pride myself on having excellent customer service skills. I am attentive, friendly, and committed to ensuring a positive shopping experience for every customer.”

13. Have you ever been accused of theft at other cashier positions?

This question addresses the candidate’s integrity and any past accusations related to theft.

Sample answer:

“No, I have never been accused of theft at any of my previous cashier positions. I understand the importance of honesty and integrity in handling financial transactions.”

14. Would you take accountability for anything that goes missing in the cashier?

This question assesses the candidate’s sense of responsibility and accountability for any discrepancies in the cash register.

Sample answer:

“Absolutely, I would take full accountability for anything that goes missing in the cashier. I understand the importance of accuracy and security in handling cash transactions, and I am committed to promptly addressing and resolving any discrepancies that may arise.”

15. Would you say you’re good at math?

This question evaluates the candidate’s proficiency in basic math skills, essential for accurate cash handling.

Sample answer:

“Yes, I am confident in my math skills. I am adept at quickly and accurately performing calculations, which is crucial in ensuring the precision of transactions and maintaining the integrity of the cash register.”

16. Are you willing to take a drug test for this position?

This question is often asked to ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards, especially in roles that involve handling financial transactions.

Sample answer:

“Absolutely, I am willing to take a drug test for this position. I fully understand and support the importance of maintaining a drug-free workplace, especially in a role that involves responsibilities like cash handling.”

17. How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

“This question encourages the candidate to provide a brief self-assessment, showcasing qualities that align with the requirements of the cashier role.
Sample Answer: Reliable, detail-oriented, friendly, efficient, and customer-focused.”

What does a good cashier candidate look like?

A good cashier candidate is not just someone who can handle money accurately. They should also have excellent customer service skills, the ability to multitask, and a positive attitude. Reliability and integrity are also key traits.