I applied in-person. The process took 2 days. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (New York, NY) in June 2010
Interview
The first step in the hiring process is applying and meeting with a store manager (any employee wearing a Hawaiian shirt). Among the topics you should be ready to discuss are your abilities dealing with customers and providing friendly and effective service to shoppers. The next step will be to meet with the Captain of the store you wish to work. The Captain may ask about your previous work experience, and will mostly be looking at your availability and commitment to being a long term member of Trader Joe's. If you display dedication and are well spoken and make yourself available to work anytime, than your chances of being hired at Trader Joe's is very good.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What would you say is your biggest weakness? Or what aspect of yourself needs most improvement?
Very chill, asked things a lot of job interviews don't, more personal down to earth questions. Made me feel very comfortable. Professional but also cool vibes from everyone who interviewed me. Went to one interview with mates and another with the captain.
I had 3 separate interviews. 1 was over the phone. 2 were in person. I never heard anything after the third interview. I called the store about a week later and they let me know they didn’t actually have any available positions. Really felt like they wasted my time.
I applied in-person. I interviewed at Trader Joe's (West Hollywood, CA)
Interview
Casual, took place outside of the store. First I had a phone call interview. Then another which was in-person with 2 of the mates in the store, and finally a third in-person with the captain of the store.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What was something I did for a friend that was above and beyond?