When considering a career at Specsavers, understanding each role’s responsibilities, expected salary, and the skills required is essential. Specsavers, as one of the leading optical and audiology retailers in the UK, offers a variety of career opportunities ranging from retail assistants and optical advisors to audiologists and managerial roles. Each position plays a critical part in delivering excellent customer service, maintaining operational efficiency, and supporting the company’s growth. Salaries vary, with retail assistants starting around £18,000 per year, optical advisors earning approximately £20,000-£25,000, optometrists and audiologists earning between £35,000-£45,000, and managerial roles often ranging from £28,000-£40,000 annually.
This blog post is a detailed guide to 30 interview questions and answers for differing Specsavers roles. We will cover opening questions, competency-based questions, the STAR model, ending questions, and essential do’s and don’ts, all structured to boost your confidence and success. Throughout, I will also highlight the importance of interview training, job interview preparation, and accessing an interview coach or interview coaching online to maximise your chance of success.
1. Tell me about yourself
Answer: Start by summarising your professional background, highlighting relevant experience, and concluding with why you’re excited about working at Specsavers. For example, “I have three years of customer service experience in retail, where I developed strong communication skills. I enjoy helping customers find the right solutions, which aligns perfectly with Specsavers’ commitment to excellent client care.”
Tip: Keep it concise, under two minutes, and focus on professional accomplishments rather than personal life.
2. Why do you want to work at Specsavers?
Answer: Show your knowledge of the company and values: “I admire Specsavers’ dedication to providing high-quality eye care and audiology services. I want to contribute to a team that values customer experience and innovation.”
3. What do you know about our products and services?
Answer: Research their optical and hearing services, the variety of frames and lenses, and their hearing aids. “I understand Specsavers offers comprehensive eye tests, a wide range of frames and lenses, and hearing solutions that cater to all age groups.”
4. Describe a time you delivered excellent customer service
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: At my previous role, a customer was unsure which glasses suited them.
Task: My goal was to guide them to a decision they were happy with.
Action: I asked questions about their needs, suggested frames, and explained lens options.
Result: The customer left satisfied, purchased two pairs, and left a positive review.
5. How do you handle challenging customers?
Answer: Focus on empathy, active listening, and problem-solving. “I listen carefully, acknowledge their concerns, and provide solutions calmly. I aim to resolve issues efficiently while maintaining a positive customer experience.”
6. Tell me about a time you worked successfully in a team
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: During a busy launch at my previous store, team coordination was essential.
Task: We needed to manage the influx of customers smoothly.
Action: I coordinated tasks, communicated clearly, and supported colleagues.
Result: We exceeded sales targets and received praise for teamwork.
7. Describe a situation where you demonstrated attention to detail
Answer: Use an example relevant to Specsavers. “While organising stock for a new optical range, I noticed mislabelled frames. I corrected the errors, preventing potential customer confusion and maintaining accurate records.”
8. What are your strengths?
Answer: Focus on qualities relevant to the role. “I am attentive, personable, and able to explain complex products simply to customers.”
9. What are your weaknesses?
Answer: Show self-awareness and improvement efforts. “I can sometimes take on too many tasks at once, but I have learned to prioritise and delegate effectively.”
10. How do you prioritise tasks during busy periods?
Answer: Discuss time management and organisation. “I make a list of tasks, prioritise urgent customer needs first, and check progress regularly to ensure all tasks are completed efficiently.”
11. Tell me about a time you solved a problem at work
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: Stock discrepancy in the optical department.
Task: Identify and resolve the issue quickly.
Action: Checked inventory records, spoke with suppliers, and corrected errors.
Result: Stock accuracy improved, and customer orders were fulfilled on time.
12. How do you stay motivated in repetitive tasks?
Answer: “I focus on achieving small goals, maintaining high standards, and remembering the bigger picture: delivering excellent customer care.”
13. Give an example of when you exceeded expectations
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: A customer requested a last-minute hearing test.
Task: Accommodate the request without affecting other appointments.
Action: Adjusted the schedule, ensured resources were ready, and provided the test promptly.
Result: Customer was impressed, leading to repeat business and positive feedback.
14. How do you approach learning new products or technologies?
Answer: “I take structured notes, ask questions, and practice using the products to ensure I fully understand before explaining to customers.”
15. Describe a time you handled a mistake at work
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: Entered incorrect data for a prescription.
Task: Correct the error quickly.
Action: Notified my manager, corrected the records, and informed the customer.
Result: Mistake resolved without impacting service, and I implemented a double-check system.
16. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: “I see myself progressing within Specsavers, potentially into a managerial or specialist role, continuing to develop my skills and contribute to the company’s success.”
17. Tell me about a time you received constructive feedback
Answer: “My manager advised me to improve time management. I implemented daily planning and prioritisation, which improved efficiency and customer service.”
18. How would you sell a product to a hesitant customer?
Answer: “I would ask questions to understand their concerns, provide clear information on benefits, and demonstrate the value of the product to their needs.”
19. What motivates you to work in customer service?
Answer: “Helping people and making their experience positive motivates me. I enjoy solving problems and seeing customers leave satisfied.”
20. Describe a time you worked under pressure
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: Busy holiday season in retail.
Task: Serve all customers efficiently while maintaining quality.
Action: Organised workflow, delegated tasks, and stayed calm.
Result: All customers were served promptly, and sales targets were exceeded.
21. Why should we hire you?
Answer: Highlight experience, skills, and cultural fit. “I bring strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and a passion for helping people, making me a great fit for Specsavers’ values.”
22. Tell me about a time you showed initiative
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: Low engagement in a promotions campaign.
Task: Boost customer participation.
Action: Suggested an in-store demonstration and created flyers.
Result: Customer engagement increased significantly.
23. How do you handle conflict with a colleague?
Answer: “I listen to their perspective, communicate my view calmly, and seek a compromise to maintain a professional relationship.”
24. Describe a time you adapted to change
Answer using STAR model:
Situation: New software implementation.
Task: Learn and apply it quickly.
Action: Attended training sessions and practised independently.
Result: Transition was smooth, and I helped colleagues adapt.
25. Tell me about your experience with cash handling
Answer: “I have experience managing transactions, reconciling tills, and ensuring accuracy, always following company protocols.”
26. How do you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations?
Answer: “I follow company guidelines, complete all necessary training, and remain vigilant in maintaining a safe environment for staff and customers.”
27. What do you enjoy most about working in retail?
Answer: “I enjoy interacting with people, helping customers find solutions, and being part of a team that works towards shared goals.”
28. How would you deal with an unhappy customer?
Answer: “Listen actively, empathise, offer solutions, and follow up if necessary to ensure satisfaction while keeping calm and professional.”
29. Do you have experience with appointment scheduling?
Answer: “Yes, I have scheduled appointments efficiently, ensuring accurate records and timely reminders, which helps smooth store operations.”
30. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: Always prepare thoughtful questions. Examples: “What opportunities are there for professional development?” or “How does Specsavers support team members in advancing their careers?”
Interview Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
Research Specsavers thoroughly.
Use the STAR model to answer competency questions.
Dress smartly and professionally.
Maintain eye contact and positive body language.
Prepare questions for the interviewer.
Use clear, confident communication.
Arrive on time.
Don’ts:
Don’t speak negatively about past employers.
Avoid vague answers.
Don’t interrupt the interviewer.
Avoid over-sharing personal information.
Don’t arrive unprepared or late.
Final Encouragement and Tips
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but preparation makes all the difference. Practising your answers, understanding each role, and working with an experienced interview coach can significantly improve confidence and performance. Remember, your goal is to show how your skills, experience, and personality align with Specsavers’ values.
If you want to gain a competitive edge, I highly recommend investing in interview training and interview coaching online. Whether you need support with job interview preparation or want tailored guidance from an interview coach, professional help can transform your approach.
You can explore more about interview coaching, interview training, and access expert guidance at Interview Training. Book an appointment today to take your career aspirations to the next level.
