I applied online. I interviewed at MOM's Organic Market in Dec 2020
Interview
I applied online for the Dobb's Ferry, NY location, which was not yet open. About a week later I got an interview request, and did a phone screen with someone at home office. I then had a video interview with three leaders- the area manager, store manager and assistant manager for the same position I'd be taking.
The video interview was average in difficulty, but the questions were unconventional, to say the least. I was asked about who I was in high school, college and now, and was expected to provide specific behavioral examples for each. It felt unnecessary and quite invasive. They claimed they wanted to get to know me holistically, but I feel there are more widely accepted, respectful ways to do that in an interview.
All leaders were professional and allowed me to fully explain each response. I was especially impressed with the assistant GM, who did most of the actual interviewing. The store manager, however, didn't ask a single question nor did she provide any visible feedback, which made it difficult to gauge if I was even being listened to.
I immediately sent proper thank you emails to all. I received a prompt response from the assistant manager, never got one from the others.
After waiting around 2.5 weeks, I reached out to the store manager to respectfully ask about the hiring process. I never got a reply. Instead, about a week later I got an automated email through Indeed, saying I hadn't been selected.
I feel that the interview process was unnecessarily invasive, and wouldn't recommend going through it. There are better ways to understand a person without alienating them before they're even employed.
I was also very frustrated by the company basically ghosting me. As a general manager, I always made it my highest priority to treat applicants and potential employees properly- being responsive, keeping them updated no matter what, and respecting their time. I approached the store manager respectfully and professionally multiple times, and did not receive this courtesy in return. This tells me it's probably best I was not offered a position.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
-What were your grades like in high school/college?
-What was an achievement you were proud of in high school/college?
-What was a particular struggle you encountered in high school/college?
-What do you do to advocate for the planet, besides recycling?
-What attracted you to Mom's?
-What would your former supervisors and employers say about you?