So you already went to the group interview? How did it go?!
Since you were able to see and hear what the other applicants were like, and what they had to say, you must have some idea how you think you did..right?
Did anyone have a great deal of prior work experience in retail and/or have worked in other large, chain clothing stores, or were most/all with little or no experience? Did the manager make eye contact with you/give you the impression you may get it?
If they specifically told all of you to NOT phone then I'm afraid you'll have to abide by their wishes. However one would hope that they're organized and properly managed = will make an effort to contact each and every applicant to let them know if they have been hired or not. I have to say that if/when a company doesn't follow up with applicants it gives an unprofessional and improperly run business impression. Whilst they may have had several applicants, everyone took the time to go in and meet with them = management should reciprocate with contacting everyone personally..either way. (but..that's in a perfect world, and as we all know..it isn't always perfect)
Some large, corporately run stores will send a simple form letter, thanking the applicant for their time and basically alerting them that someone else has been hired..usually mentioning that they will hold your application, should another position open up soon.
If I were you, I would apply at a few other stores in the area, especially since you now know what the process is like. Going in to various shops and stores, and asking to speak to the manager on duty..inquiring if they are accepting applications and/or have any part or full time positions open for sales associates (any position) would be smart. Asking about other than sales staff positions would be best.
Since Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister are sister stores, you wouldn't have to officially apply at A & F, if it's near-by, but all other clothing stores would be an option.
I spoke to the manager at the local Hollister store in LA. She gave me the scoop. Hollister/A & F will conduct open interviews at least once per week, in their case on Tuesdays. They make a point of telling applicants that they will call within the week, but if they haven't heard anything by that following Tuesday, to give them a ring (she said they sometimes get too busy with new shipments, etc.) and always instruct applicants to follow through if they haven't heard. She's the manager, so obviously she's apprised of corporate policy = I would phone if you haven't heard in a week per her suggestion.
She said two positions are available, one for sales associate and one 'impact position', that includes stocking, unpack-aging new merchandise, applying the sensors to all garments, rotating stock, etc. both positions include all duties, with the counter/register and sales team being responsible for sales (stockers will not be ringing up sales, etc.) She said if one hasn't been hired they can re-apply in 6 months.
She also said that the applications are processed through HQ. There are occasional delays with having their system updated, indicating who the new hires are, and for what position. From the sound of things, one may be able to contact any Hollister store and find out what their status is re: having been hired (even at another Hollister). But I would be more inclined to contact the manager personally, if you haven't received word after 7 days. Just a simple, phone call, reiterating your continued interest is perfectly acceptable.
Even when/if a store manager believes an applicant would be an awesome addition to their store..the applicant's information still has to be processed through corporate office. So, it isn't just stall tactics from store personnel..it really does take a few days to a week for HQ to run a background check on the applicant. Retail stores (any business) won't hire anyone with any arrest/conviction for theft, etc. (some will go to the point of not hiring anyone with a low credit score or a bankruptcy, believe it or not). HQ's refuse to take the risk, presuming that anyone who has financial difficulties/delinquent payment history/bankruptcy, etc., = suspicious character and they will be passed over for employment.
(not exactly fair, since if one is looking for work, they obviously need the money. Not many independently wealthy people are seeking a sales position at a busy clothing store for the fun of it all. But again, it's an imperfect world sometimes).
I hope they call soon..but if you haven't heard by Saturday morning then give the manager a ring.
good luck!
Answered By: tuesday - 6/6/2012 |