Prepping for Interview Success: Insights from Carolyn Young, CEO of Retail NZ

We recently sat down with Carolyn Young, CEO of Retail NZ who shared some incredible insights on interview preparation and career growth in retail. This field often surprises candidates with its dynamic career paths and opportunities for growth. For those stepping into interviews and aiming for a career in this industry, here’s a summary of her advice, complete with practical tips to take your retail career to new heights.

Carolyn highlighted how crucial it is to remain resilient when seeking job opportunities. Drawing from her journey, she recounted, “I applied several times for a role I truly cared about and eventually landed an interview after many attempts. Staying persistent can lead to new opportunities - even if it doesn’t happen immediately, so it's vital to stay motivated.” Her experiences illustrate that challenges are a natural part of the process, but with resolve, chances often arise at the right moment.

According to Carolyn, hiring decisions at Retail NZ focus not only on skills but also on cultural fit. Carolyn suggests that, for interview success, candidates should bring their authentic selves to the table. "Retail is very much about people," she explained. "We want to see if you’ll fit with our team, not just if you can do the job.” In smaller organisations like Retail NZ, each hire can shift the team dynamics significantly, making it crucial for candidates to align with the culture and values. Carolyn even includes casual conversations in the hiring process, such as coffee meet-ups, to understand candidates’ personalities better.

Looking back on her initial time at Netball Central Zone, Carolyn remembered a surprising and difficult interview: “I was questioned about what would set me apart given the high turnover in my position. It was an enlightening moment that strengthened my determination to excel.” This highlights for job applicants the necessity of getting ready for challenging inquiries - those that not only assess your qualifications but also delve into your future aspirations, and personal integrity.

In retail, there’s more to roles than meets the eye, and Carolyn advocates for thinking broadly about where you might fit within a team. “Careers in retail aren’t always linear; there’s flexibility to explore various roles,” she said. Her advice to candidates: come prepared to discuss how you can contribute uniquely to the organisation, even if that means considering lateral moves or new areas you haven’t yet explored.

For candidates who value flexibility, Carolyn pointed out that retail roles often offer a unique schedule that doesn’t conform to the traditional 9-to-5. “Some of our best hires are people who work different hours because they have other commitments. Retail is a space that can accommodate that flexibility,” she noted. This can be particularly appealing to younger job seekers looking for a balance between work and personal interests.

The retail industry is rapidly evolving with technology, and Carolyn emphasised the value of digital savvy. Retail NZ’s recent campaign on TikTok showcases how the industry is leveraging digital platforms to engage younger audiences and change perceptions around retail. “We’re meeting the new generation where they are,” Carolyn remarked. “Platforms like TikTok allow us to showcase real stories and attract young talent to an industry they may not have considered.”

For those looking to step into retail, showing an understanding of digital trends and how they impact retail can make you stand out in interviews.

Leaders, she advises, should aim for authenticity, self-awareness, and an understanding of their own strengths and limitations. "When leading, it's about having the right people in the right roles and valuing diversity within your team," she explained. Authenticity and empathy are essential for building trust and creating a cohesive, motivated team.

Whether you're preparing for an interview or navigating a new role, her guidance underscores the power of persistence, a growth mindset, and a commitment to both personal and professional development. Looking for a role in retail? ZEIL has plenty of flexible, well-paying job opportunities available. Check them out here.