Below is a list of our IKEA interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, youll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
IKEA has a strong brand and a unique reputation. Their approach is very customer-centric, casual, no-nonsense, and very friendly. Anyone they hire has to fit a particular mold. They have to be approachable, knowledgeable, and passionate about their products. They also need to go the distance when making the customer experience as accommodating as possible. IKEA lets customers pick out items by hand to take home, have delivered, or have put together for them, and they have a very easy return policy. So, they expect their employees to happily accommodate their customer’s every need through service and product knowledge. In other words, the person they hire to make this happen should enjoy working with them and feel at home while doing it. Additionally, they offer very generous benefits and competitive pay. However, they expect a certain degree of flexibility from their employees, especially concerning their availability and work schedules. Their staff may not have a consistent schedule or consistent days. They’ll also be expected to wear their uniform when on the job. However, IKEAs uniform is far more casual than most other retailers. They also emphasize building a community and a sense of togetherness. They foster a collaborative and supportive environment, where their employees often attest to regarding each other as family. When their employees feel at home, their customers feel at home, too.
Ever wondered what it takes to land a job at the world’s leading furniture retailer?
Well, wonder no more!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the depths of the IKEA interview process, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to transform your interview into a resounding success
Get ready to unlock the secrets of IKEA’s recruitment strategy and discover the key ingredients for acing your interview.
Grab a cup of your favorite drink and buckle up, because we’re going on an exciting trip together!
Step 1: Understanding the IKEA Interview Process
Let’s take a moment to learn about the IKEA interview process as a whole before we get into the interview itself.
This will give you a clear roadmap of what to expect and allow you to strategize accordingly.
The 3-Step Recruitment Process
IKEA’s recruitment process is designed to be simple and efficient consisting of three distinct steps
- Phone Screening: After a thorough review of your application, an IKEA recruiter will reach out to you for a brief phone conversation. This initial chat aims to gain a deeper understanding of your past experiences and assess your overall suitability for the role.
- In-Person Interview: If you impress the recruiter during the phone screening, you’ll be invited for an in-person interview with an IKEA leader. This is your chance to showcase your motivation, skills, and passion for IKEA.
- The Hiring Decision: If you emerge as the ideal candidate, the IKEA recruiter will contact you with a job offer. However, if you’re not selected, you’ll receive an email update, and in many cases, you may even be recommended for other open positions within the company.
Understanding this process will help you prepare effectively for each stage and increase your chances of landing that coveted IKEA job.
Step 2: Preparing for Your IKEA Interview
Now that you know how the IKEA interview process works, let’s get down to the specifics of getting ready for your interview.
Here are some essential tips to help you shine:
Know Your IKEA:
IKEA is a company with a unique culture and values. Before your interview, take some time to familiarize yourself with the company’s history, mission, and values.
Visit the IKEA website, browse their products, and get a feel for their overall brand identity.
This knowledge will demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and set you apart from other candidates.
Anticipate Behavioral Questions:
Behavioral questions are a staple of IKEA interviews. These questions delve into your past experiences to assess how you’ve handled various work situations.
Be prepared to share specific examples of times when you demonstrated key skills such as decision-making, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
Remember, the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can be a valuable tool for structuring your responses and ensuring clarity.
Highlight Your IKEA-Friendly Qualities:
IKEA seeks individuals who share their passion for home furnishings, positive attitude, and commitment to customer service.
Emphasize your enthusiasm for IKEA’s products and values, and demonstrate your willingness to go the extra mile to create a positive customer experience.
Additionally, highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the specific requirements of the position you’re applying for.
Prepare Your Own Questions:
Asking questions during an interview demonstrates your curiosity and genuine interest in the role and the company.
Think about what’s important to you in a job, such as career growth opportunities, work-life balance, or leadership development.
Asking thoughtful questions will not only impress the interviewer but also help you determine if IKEA is the right fit for you.
Dress for Success (or Comfort):
IKEA’s dress code is casual, and they value individuality.
Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident, whether it’s casual or more professional. The key is to present yourself in a way that aligns with your personal style and the company’s culture.
Step 3: Frequently Asked IKEA Interview Questions
Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: the most frequently asked IKEA interview questions.
By familiarizing yourself with these questions, you can anticipate what to expect and formulate well-thought-out responses.
General IKEA Interview Questions:
- Why do you want to work at IKEA?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Tell me about a time you faced a challenge at work and how you overcame it.
- Describe a situation where you had to work as part of a team to achieve a goal.
- What are your salary expectations?
IKEA-Specific Interview Questions:
- What is your favorite IKEA product and why?
- How would you handle a customer who is upset about a product or service?
- What do you know about IKEA’s sustainability initiatives?
- What are your thoughts on IKEA’s flat-pack furniture?
- Are you familiar with the IKEA co-worker culture?
Step 4: Additional Resources for Your IKEA Interview Preparation
To further enhance your interview preparation, here are some valuable resources:
- IKEA Careers website: The IKEA Careers website is a treasure trove of information about the company, its culture, and its open positions.
- Glassdoor: Glassdoor provides insights into IKEA’s interview process, including questions asked by interviewers and employee reviews.
- YouTube videos: Numerous YouTube videos offer tips and advice on how to ace your IKEA interview.
- LinkedIn: Connect with IKEA employees on LinkedIn to gain firsthand insights into the company and its interview process.
By following the tips outlined in this guide and familiarizing yourself with the frequently asked IKEA interview questions, you’ll be well-equipped to make a positive impression during your interview.
Remember, be yourself, showcase your passion for IKEA, and demonstrate your ability to contribute to the company’s success.
With thorough preparation and a confident attitude, you’ll be on your way to landing your dream job at IKEA!
Best of luck!
