Landing a position at Supercuts, one of the UK’s leading hair salon chains, is an exciting opportunity for both new and experienced professionals. Whether you’re aiming to become a stylist, receptionist, salon manager, or assistant, understanding each role’s responsibilities, salary expectations, and key skills is critical. Supercuts values friendly, reliable, and skilled staff who can provide excellent customer service and contribute to a thriving salon environment. Stylist roles in the UK typically earn around £18,000–£25,000 per year, while receptionists can expect £16,000–£20,000, and salon managers may earn £25,000–£35,000. These figures can vary by location and experience, but the common factor across all roles is the need for professionalism, creativity, and strong communication skills.
To help you succeed, we’ve compiled 30 detailed interview questions and answers, covering simple opening questions, competency-based STAR model responses, and closing questions. Alongside these, you’ll find do’s and don’ts, practical advice for Supercuts interviews, and links to expert interview training, interview coaching online, and job interview preparation.
Simple Opening Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself.
This classic opener helps interviewers understand your background. A strong answer focuses on your professional experience, relevant skills, and passion for hair and beauty.
Example Answer: “I’ve worked in customer service for three years, primarily in beauty and retail. I love creating positive experiences for clients and keeping up with the latest hair trends. Joining Supercuts is an exciting opportunity to grow my career while helping clients feel confident.”
2. Why do you want to work at Supercuts?
Show your knowledge of the company and alignment with its values.
Example Answer: “I admire Supercuts’ commitment to quality service and continuous training. I want to join a team where I can learn, grow, and contribute to client satisfaction.”
3. What makes you suitable for this role?
Demonstrate relevant experience and skills.
Example Answer: “I’m detail-oriented, creative with hair styling, and experienced in managing appointments efficiently. My interpersonal skills allow me to connect with clients and create a welcoming atmosphere.”
4. Can you describe your previous salon experience?
Focus on achievements and responsibilities.
Example Answer: “At my previous salon, I handled up to 15 clients daily, performed a variety of hair treatments, and received consistent positive feedback for my attention to detail.”
5. How do you handle a difficult customer?
Show conflict resolution skills.
Example Answer: “I remain calm, listen carefully, and empathize with their concerns. Then, I offer practical solutions to ensure a positive outcome, which usually resolves the issue effectively.”
Competency Questions and Answers
Competency-based questions often require examples of past behaviour to demonstrate skills. Using the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is key here.
6. Describe a time you handled multiple clients under pressure.
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “During a busy Saturday, the salon had a full schedule of 10 appointments.”
Task: “I needed to complete each service efficiently while maintaining quality.”
Action: “I prioritised tasks, communicated wait times politely, and worked calmly.”
Result: “All clients were satisfied, and I received positive feedback from management.”
7. Tell me about a time you received constructive feedback.
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “A manager suggested improving my speed during blow-dries.”
Task: “I needed to enhance efficiency without compromising quality.”
Action: “I practiced techniques during quieter hours and asked for tips from senior stylists.”
Result: “My average appointment time decreased, and client satisfaction improved.”
8. Give an example of teamwork in a salon environment.
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “A colleague and I managed a large booking on the same day.”
Task: “We had to coordinate tasks to ensure timely service.”
Action: “I assisted by preparing tools and offering support when needed.”
Result: “We completed all appointments on schedule and received praise from clients.”
9. How do you manage client expectations?
Answer: “I listen carefully, clarify their preferences, and offer professional advice if something isn’t feasible. Open communication ensures realistic expectations.”
10. Describe a time you resolved a team conflict.
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “Two stylists disagreed over schedule allocation.”
Task: “As the senior stylist, I mediated to find a fair solution.”
Action: “I held a short meeting, listened to both sides, and proposed a compromise.”
Result: “The conflict was resolved, and team morale improved.”
Role-Specific Interview Questions and Answers
Stylist Role
11. How do you stay updated with hair trends?
Answer: “I follow industry blogs, attend workshops, and practice new techniques regularly.”
12. Can you explain a challenging haircut you’ve done?
Answer (STAR): Describe a scenario where your skill overcame a difficult request with a successful result.
13. How do you handle mistakes with a client’s hair?
Answer: “I apologise, explain solutions, and offer corrective measures to ensure satisfaction.”
Receptionist Role
14. How do you manage bookings efficiently?
Answer: “I use the salon software, confirm appointments, and keep a clear schedule to prevent delays.”
15. How do you handle a no-show client?
Answer: “I politely follow up, reschedule if possible, and maintain a friendly tone to encourage return visits.”
Salon Manager Role
16. How do you motivate your team?
Answer: “I recognise achievements, provide feedback, and foster a supportive work environment.”
17. How do you manage inventory and salon finances?
Answer: “I track stock, reorder supplies on time, and maintain clear financial records for efficiency.”
18. Describe a time you increased salon revenue.
Answer (STAR): Highlight a promotional campaign or upselling success that improved profits.
Assistant Role
19. How do you support stylists during peak hours?
Answer: “I ensure tools are ready, clients are comfortable, and the salon runs smoothly.”
20. How do you prioritise tasks?
Answer: “I assess urgency, communicate with the team, and tackle critical tasks first.”
Behavioural and Situational Questions
21. How would you handle a dissatisfied client?
Answer: “I remain calm, listen carefully, and offer solutions while maintaining professionalism.”
22. Describe a situation where you had to learn quickly.
Answer (STAR): Discuss training in a new technique or software under a tight deadline.
23. How do you manage stress in a busy salon?
Answer: “I focus on one task at a time, take short breaks when possible, and stay organised.”
24. How do you ensure high standards in service delivery?
Answer: “I double-check work, follow procedures, and seek feedback from clients and colleagues.”
Ending Questions and Answers
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: “Yes, I’d love to know how Supercuts supports ongoing professional development for staff.”
26. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: “I aim to develop my skills further, potentially taking on a senior stylist or management role within Supercuts.”
27. What is your greatest strength?
Answer: “I’m a great communicator, which helps me build strong client relationships and work well in a team.”
28. What is your greatest weakness?
Answer: “I tend to be a perfectionist, but I’ve learned to balance quality with efficiency.”
29. Why should we hire you?
Answer: “I bring passion, reliability, and customer-focused skills that match Supercuts’ high standards.”
30. How do you handle feedback and criticism?
Answer: “I listen carefully, reflect, and use it to improve my performance consistently.”
Do’s and Don’ts of Supercuts Interviews
Do’s:
Arrive on time and professionally dressed.
Research Supercuts’ services and culture.
Use the STAR model for competency questions.
Maintain eye contact and smile.
Show enthusiasm for hair and beauty.
Don’ts:
Don’t speak negatively about previous employers.
Don’t exaggerate your skills or experience.
Avoid interrupting the interviewer.
Don’t forget to prepare questions to ask.
Final Coaching Tips
Preparing for a Supercuts interview can feel daunting, but with the right approach, you can make a lasting impression. Practice answering questions aloud, refine your STAR stories, and review common salon scenarios. Confidence, professionalism, and a friendly attitude go a long way. Consider expert interview coaching or interview coaching online for personalised guidance. Comprehensive job interview preparation ensures you stand out from other candidates.
Remember, interviews are as much about showing your personality and passion as your skills. Every question is an opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for Supercuts’ dynamic environment.
If you want to take your preparation further, book a session with a professional interview coach today. Expert guidance can turn your potential into confidence, helping you secure your dream role.
