The interview was pretty much as easy as it gets. I filled out the hour-long application online and a robot sent me an email 3 minutes after I completed the application. "You possess the skills we expect of our employees, please call a manager to schedule an interview ASAP." I went for my first interview at the store, which was a one-on-one. As many others have said, the interview was conducted outside the store (mine in the food court). I didn’t care, but it was odd to say the least. Dress like what they wear, and know their products and customers. Be prepared to talk about your resume, teamwork, and any other experience you feel is relevant. I have never worked in retail before and thought it was a piece of cake, though I do interview well (not to sound egotistical, but I never get nervous). So far, so good.
The second interview was with the district manager over the phone. The meeting was set and he called when he was supposed to call. The questions in round two were pretty much the same. He asked if he could call a few days later to let me know whether or not I was accepted for the position. I said yes, we arranged a time, and he never called. This is where it gets… weird.
He called me the next week and said I would receive an offer by email within 24 hours. I got the offer and found it was pretty standard for the position. With that offer I wouldn't be able to make ends meet, but was reluctant to turn it down. I requested an extension from HR, but never actually heard from the woman that sent it to me. Her assistant called and said, “The district manager will call you tomorrow.” Once again, he didn't call, and I asked HR what was going on. "It's unusual for him to not call back, but he has a lot going on that he normally wouldn't have to deal with. If he doesn’t call you back next week, give me a call. You'll get the extension, that's not a problem.” That was Thursday.
The next week (Tuesday), I received a phone call from someone at the very same store in which I was supposed to start in two months (assuming I took the position). She said, “I found your resume and I want to know if you are still interested in working at the store. Give me a call back as soon as possible.” I called back and stated that her message made no sense because I was currently sitting on an offer from them. The lady on the phone sounded disorganized and said someone would call back shortly. Two minutes later, the phone rang.
She said, “Tell me exactly what’s going on? I’m a little confused right now.” I explained that I had an offer sitting in my hand and was trying to determine whether or not I could take it. She then asked if I could come in for a second interview, at which point I said, “Why would I need to interview again if I already have an offer? That makes absolutely no sense.” “There have been a few changes and you need to come in again. Can you come in tonight?” “No.” “Can you come in tomorrow?” “Not possible.” She kept talking in circles and said, “Hang on let me get another manager.” (New manager on the phone), “Hi, can you come in for an interview tonight?” “No.” “Tomorrow?” “No.” “Monday?” “No. Am I not obligated to know what exactly is going on and why my offer is now null and void?” She hesitated then finally said, “The manager quit and we are conducting interviews at the store.” After she said that, everything made perfect sense.
The last time I spoke with the DM, he said he was going to my store the following week (I assumed for normal meetings). In reality, the manager had more than likely announced (right after my offer came) that he was quitting. This entire back and forth process with Buckle left me in the dark for an entire month.
Two days after this "can you come in for an interview" thing occurred, he (finally) got in touch and said the offer was still there.