Working as a merchandise planner will require you to first ace the interview stage.
The questions that you will be asked will be tough. And your answers must be spot on if you want to bag the job.
It is important to note that you will be sitting in front of the person who may be your future boss, and the tension will be high.
It is your job to ensure that you do not succumb to the pressure of what the hiring manager is asking.
The first thing that you need to do prior to the interview is to prepare for possible questions that you may be asked.
See also: Merchandiser Coordinator Interview
Merchandise Planner Interview Questions and Answers
What work have you performed in the role of a merchandise planner?
As a merchandise planner, my work includes analyzing previous sales figures and trends in order to determine requirements for future products and devising merchandise plans in accordance with these determinations.
In addition, I have developed and communicated merchandizing plans to buyers in order to help them decide styles, and colors. Moreover, I have been responsible for tracking how existing product lines sell and determining future steps.
What skills do you possess which make you an excellent person to hire as a merchandise planner?
I am well-versed in managing the development of annual, seasonal, monthly, and weekly merchandise plans. In addition, I am competent in developing and communicating merchandizing strategies to management and determining future requirements. Also, I am qualified to develop multiple class level pricing recommendations and strategies in correlation with each department’s financial plans.
What do you consider as the most challenging part of working in this position?
I believe that handling projections are by far the most difficult part of working as a merchandise planner.
How do you handle it?
I am a thorough professional, which means that I work towards a certain goal. Since I know what challenges await me, I make sure that I am ready for them.
Tell us of two areas that you are well-versed in?
As far as work as a merchandising planner is concerned, I am competent in many areas, including business process management, and product planning.
What are your future plans?
I intend to lead teams of merchandizers once I have obtained enough skills and experience in this work. And I am working hard to achieve this in the near future.