Boots Manager Interview Questions
& Process

I did the usual online application, then a skills-based online assessment which was pretty easy. After that, I had an interview at the store with my manager. It was a one-on-one, with standard competency questions about skills and company values. The interviewer was really structured and took notes. The questions were what you'd expect for the role, easy to answer using STAR. Then there was a task where I had to read about a fake store and give feedback on how I'd handle the problems short, medium, and long term as an Assistant Manager. They seemed to be marking it as I went. I'm good at interviews and tasks, so I found it easy. The interviewer was really chill and made me feel comfortable. They kept saying I did well on the questions and task with good examples. But then, when I mentioned a holiday, they asked my age out of nowhere. I was really caught off guard and regret answering. As a young person in this job, age questions are a disadvantage. I did well on everything else and have lots of experience, so the age question felt sneaky and inappropriate. I got a generic email from HR saying I wasn't successful within a week, even though I'd already been offered another job. I was disappointed with the lack of communication and expected a personal call with feedback. It was a really relaxed and straightforward interview process though, the easiest retail management one I've done.

My application led to online tests (Situational Awareness, Maths, Personality). Afterward, I got an invite for what they called an 'in-store leadership interview/assessment.' I picked a time slot that worked with my job, which was great. When I got to the store, I realized it was the wrong one because the recruitment team had sent the wrong address to everyone. The store I went to called ahead to let the correct store know I'd be late, but I was already a bit late due to the mix-up. I waited outside in the rain for a taxi. A kind store employee offered me a lift or to call a taxi. I got to the right store and was told to wait. After about 5-10 minutes, my interviewer came and took me to the office. He was really enthusiastic about his job and the store. I enjoyed the interview, learned a lot about behind-the-scenes operations, and he patiently answered my questions. The interview lasted 45 mins to 1 hour. I brought my passport and NI number for them to copy. They said they'd decide that day and let me know either way, as they only had one more interview. I didn't hear back after three weeks, so I emailed them. It's now been over a month with no response. I think it's poor not to let candidates know, especially when promised, and not to provide feedback.

The interview process was easy and clear. The role profile was clear on what was expected, including essential and non-essential aspects. However, it wasn't clear on the management structure, who reports to whom, and the processes involved. Benefits were made clear, and there was no requirement to drive, with a uniform that could be provided.