The role of a Shop Assistant at Texaco petrol stations is more than just a job behind the counter. It’s about delivering exceptional customer service, handling payments accurately, keeping the store clean and well-stocked, and ensuring safety standards are maintained. Texaco is a recognised brand in the UK with a reputation for professionalism and reliability. Working as a Shop Assistant offers an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to grow a career in retail, customer service, or management.
The typical salary for a Shop Assistant at Texaco petrol stations in the UK ranges between £10.50–£11.50 per hour depending on location, experience, and shift patterns. Some sites offer overtime, night shift premiums, and staff discounts.
With over 25 years’ experience as a UK-based interview coach, I know that preparing thoroughly for your interview is the key to standing out from other applicants. In this article, I’ll take you through 25 likely Texaco Shop Assistant interview questions and answers, explained in detail. I’ll also show you how to apply the STAR model, share tips on job interview preparation, and give you encouragement for interview day.
Sample Opening Questions and Answers
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
This is often the first question. Employers want a quick overview of who you are.
Sample Answer: “I’ve worked in customer service for three years, mainly in retail. I enjoy working with people, solving problems quickly, and keeping a store tidy and efficient. I’m motivated by delivering excellent service and building a good rapport with customers.”
2. Why do you want to work for Texaco?
Here, show motivation and knowledge of the brand.
Sample Answer: “Texaco has a strong reputation for customer service and reliability. I admire the brand’s commitment to community service and safety. I want to join because I believe my experience in retail and enthusiasm for helping customers fits perfectly with Texaco’s standards.”
3. What do you know about Texaco petrol stations?
Do your research beforehand.
Sample Answer: “Texaco is a leading fuel provider with hundreds of service stations across the UK. Customers trust Texaco for quality fuels, convenience stores, and friendly staff. I know that Texaco stations focus on safety, cleanliness, and efficiency, and I’d love to contribute to that culture.”
Competency-Based Questions and STAR Model Answers
Competency questions are common in Texaco Shop Assistant interviews. Use the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
4. Can you give an example of excellent customer service you’ve provided?
STAR Answer:
Situation: “At my previous retail job, a customer was upset that their loyalty card points had not been added.”
Task: “I needed to resolve the issue quickly and reassure the customer.”
Action: “I listened carefully, apologised, contacted the loyalty support team, and manually updated the points.”
Result: “The customer left satisfied and later returned to thank me for my patience.”
5. Describe a time you handled a difficult customer.
STAR Answer:
Situation: “A customer became frustrated because the card machine wasn’t working.”
Task: “I needed to defuse the situation calmly.”
Action: “I apologised, explained the issue, suggested alternative payment methods, and offered a discount voucher for next time.”
Result: “The customer accepted the solution and appreciated my calm approach.”
6. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.
STAR Answer:
Situation: “During a busy weekend shift, stock deliveries arrived late.”
Task: “Our team had to restock quickly while keeping tills running.”
Action: “I volunteered to cover the till while others handled stock. We rotated tasks efficiently.”
Result: “We managed to serve all customers without delays, and our manager praised the teamwork.”
7. Describe a time when you had to prioritise tasks.
STAR Answer:
Situation: “One evening, I had stock to replenish, tills to close, and a spill to clean up.”
Task: “I needed to decide which to do first.”
Action: “I prioritised safety by cleaning the spill, then served customers at the till, before restocking.”
Result: “All tasks were completed safely, and customers were not inconvenienced.”
8. Give an example of when you showed initiative at work.
STAR Answer:
Situation: “I noticed customers struggled to find bottled water on hot days.”
Task: “I wanted to improve the customer experience.”
Action: “I moved stock closer to the entrance and added signage.”
Result: “Sales of bottled water increased significantly, and customers commented on the helpful layout.”
Additional Texaco Shop Assistant Interview Questions and Sample Answers
9. How do you handle working under pressure?
Sample Answer: “I remain calm by focusing on one customer at a time. In busy retail, pressure is normal, but by keeping organised and positive, I can handle peak periods effectively.”
10. What would you do if you suspected shoplifting?
Sample Answer: “I would follow Texaco’s procedures—remain observant, alert my manager, and never directly confront the individual to avoid risk. Safety is always the priority.”
11. How do you ensure accuracy when handling cash?
Sample Answer: “I always count carefully, double-check change, and stay focused. I also use the till system effectively and avoid distractions.”
12. How would you deal with a customer complaint?
Sample Answer: “I would listen without interrupting, apologise sincerely, and resolve the issue as quickly as possible, while following company policies.”
13. What does great customer service mean to you?
Sample Answer: “It’s about making every customer feel valued, respected, and supported. Even small interactions can leave a big impression.”
14. What skills do you bring to this role?
Sample Answer: “I’m organised, reliable, and approachable. I bring excellent communication skills, cash-handling experience, and a positive attitude.”
15. Can you work flexible shifts, including evenings and weekends?
Sample Answer: “Yes, I understand petrol stations operate long hours, and I am available for evenings and weekends.”
16. What motivates you at work?
Sample Answer: “I’m motivated by happy customers, achieving team goals, and learning new skills that prepare me for career growth.”
17. How would you handle a safety hazard in the shop?
Sample Answer: “I’d address the hazard immediately—for example, cleaning a spill or placing a warning sign—before reporting it to my manager.”
18. How do you keep yourself motivated during repetitive tasks?
Sample Answer: “I focus on the importance of the task to the customer experience and break tasks into manageable steps to stay productive.”
19. Why should we hire you?
Sample Answer: “I have strong customer service skills, retail experience, and a genuine enthusiasm for Texaco’s values. I’ll bring reliability and positivity to the team.”
20. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Sample Answer: “I’d like to progress within Texaco, perhaps into a supervisory role, while continuing to build my customer service expertise.”
Ending Questions and How to Answer Them
Towards the end of the interview, you may be asked:
21. Do you have any questions for us?
Ask thoughtful questions such as:
“What training opportunities do you provide new starters?”
“What does success in this role look like in the first three months?”
22. How soon are you looking to make a hiring decision?
This shows your interest and helps manage your expectations.
23. What opportunities for progression exist within Texaco?
This shows ambition.
Do’s and Don’ts for Your Texaco Shop Assistant Interview
Do’s
Dress smartly and arrive early.
Use the STAR model for competency answers.
Show enthusiasm and knowledge of Texaco.
Practise with an interview coach or through interview coaching online sessions.
Don’ts
Don’t speak negatively about past employers.
Don’t give vague answers—always be specific.
Don’t forget to smile and engage positively with the panel.
General Interview Coaching Encouragement and Tips
Remember, interviews are not about being perfect—they’re about showing how your skills and attitude fit the company. Employers at Texaco want reliable, friendly, and safety-conscious team members. Prepare with job interview preparation techniques, rehearse using mock questions, and if you need personalised support, book professional interview coaching.
As your trusted UK interview coach, I always remind candidates: confidence comes from preparation. By practising these Texaco Shop Assistant interview questions and answers, you’ll not only feel ready—you’ll shine on the day.
For personalised support, you can book an appointment with me for tailored interview training, one-to-one sessions, or interview coaching online by visiting Interview Training UK.
