As a Superdrug Apprentice Sales Adviser, you play a vital part in delivering exceptional customer service, driving sales, and supporting the smooth running of the store. This role combines hands-on retail experience with structured training, making it perfect for those starting their career in beauty, health, and retail. You’ll assist customers with product advice, keep shelves well-stocked, process sales transactions, and work as part of a motivated team. Apprentice Sales Advisers at Superdrug typically earn around £6.50–£8.00 per hour, with the potential to grow into higher positions once qualified. This is not just a job – it’s a stepping stone into a dynamic, people-focused retail career.
25 Superdrug Apprentice Sales Adviser interview questions and answers
As an interview coach with over 25 years of helping candidates shine, I’ve put together 25 fully explained questions and model answers you can adapt to your own experience.
1. Tell me about yourself.
Answer: “I’m a friendly, customer-focused person who enjoys helping others. I’ve always had an interest in health and beauty products, and I’m excited to develop my retail skills through an apprenticeship where I can learn and earn.”
2. Why do you want to work for Superdrug?
Answer: “I admire Superdrug’s commitment to affordable beauty and health products, as well as its focus on sustainability. I’m looking for a company that invests in its people, and I see the apprenticeship as a great way to grow with the brand.”
3. What do you understand about the Apprentice Sales Adviser role?
Answer: “It’s about delivering excellent customer service, keeping the store presentable, assisting with sales, and learning the skills to progress in retail.”
4. How would you approach a customer who looks unsure?
Answer: “I’d greet them warmly, ask if they need any help, and offer product knowledge or recommendations tailored to their needs.”
5. Give me an example of when you worked as part of a team. (STAR)
Situation: School charity event. Task: Sell tickets to raise funds. Action: Coordinated with team to create a sales rota. Result: Exceeded our target by 30%.
6. How do you handle difficult customers?
Answer: “I stay calm, listen carefully to their concerns, empathise, and work to find a solution that meets their needs and store policy.”
7. What does good customer service mean to you?
Answer: “It means making every customer feel valued, listened to, and satisfied with both the product and the overall experience.”
8. How do you stay motivated during quiet periods?
Answer: “I use the time to tidy shelves, check stock levels, and brush up on product knowledge so I’m ready when customers arrive.”
9. Tell me about a time you achieved a personal goal.
Answer: “I set a goal to improve my presentation skills, so I volunteered to speak at an assembly. It boosted my confidence and ability to engage with people.”
10. Why should we hire you?
Answer: “I bring enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a natural ability to connect with customers. I’ll contribute positively to the store team from day one.”
11. How would you handle running out of stock for a popular item?
Answer: “I’d apologise to the customer, offer alternatives, and check when the item will be back in stock.”
12. What do you know about Superdrug’s values?
Answer: “Superdrug values customer satisfaction, affordability, and sustainability, and I share those values.”
13. How would you upsell or recommend additional products?
Answer: “I’d suggest complementary products based on the customer’s purchase, explaining their benefits without being pushy.”
14. Describe a time you had to learn something quickly.
Answer: “When joining a new school club, I learned the routine in one afternoon so I could join in fully the next day.”
15. How do you prioritise tasks during a busy shift?
Answer: “I assess urgency, handle customer-facing tasks first, then complete restocking or tidying during quieter moments.”
16. What skills do you hope to gain from this apprenticeship?
Answer: “Customer service skills, sales techniques, product knowledge, and the ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment.”
17. How would you support your team on a difficult day?
Answer: “I’d stay positive, offer help where needed, and encourage team members to keep morale high.”
18. What would you do if you noticed a safety hazard in store?
Answer: “I’d address it immediately if safe to do so, and inform a supervisor straight away.”
19. How do you deal with constructive criticism?
Answer: “I see it as a chance to improve. I listen, take notes, and put the feedback into action.”
20. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond.
Answer: “At a school event, I stayed late to help clean up even though I wasn’t asked, ensuring everything was ready for the next day.”
21. How do you ensure accuracy when handling money?
Answer: “I count carefully, follow till procedures, and double-check amounts before giving change.”
22. What do you know about Superdrug’s products?
Answer: “I know you offer a wide range from beauty to health, including exclusive own-brand products and cruelty-free ranges.”
23. How would you handle a situation where you don’t know the answer to a customer’s question?
Answer: “I’d be honest, then find the information from a colleague or product guide quickly.”
24. How do you ensure customers feel valued?
Answer: “By listening, personalising service, and thanking them sincerely for their visit.”
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: “What qualities do your most successful Apprentice Sales Advisers share?”
Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
Research the company’s values and products.
Use the STAR model for competency questions.
Show enthusiasm for learning.
Don’t:
Speak negatively about previous experiences.
Give generic answers – personalise them.
General interview coaching encouragement and tips
Remember – confidence comes from preparation. Practise aloud, dress appropriately, and arrive early. Use your body language to project warmth and energy. If you get stuck, take a breath and think before answering. Retail interviews are about showing you can be approachable, adaptable, and eager to learn.
As an interview training specialist, I’ve seen candidates transform their performance simply by preparing with the right structure, such as STAR. And if you need personalised help, you can work with an interview coach who will guide you through mock interviews, feedback, and confidence building. You can book interview coaching directly at https://www.interview-training.co.uk/.
This could be the start of a fantastic career – so prepare, practise, and show them your best self.
