Top Whole Foods Interview Questions: Complete Preparation Guide

1. Introduction

Navigating the recruitment process can be daunting, and preparation is key to success. This article delves into commonly asked whole foods interview questions, offering a comprehensive guide to help candidates showcase their skills and passion for the brand. Whether it’s customer service experience or knowledge of organic products, we’ll provide insights to help you approach your interview with confidence.

Whole Foods Market Insights

Whole Foods Market, with its commitment to natural and organic foods, stands as a pioneer in the supermarket industry. The brand is not just a grocery store; it is a hub for sustainability, healthy living, and community engagement. Whole Foods is known for its high standards and a work culture that values teamwork, integrity, and customer satisfaction. As such, candidates looking to join the Whole Foods family must demonstrate more than just basic retail skills; they must align with the company’s mission and exhibit a deep understanding of its values and operational standards. This section provides the essential background to navigate the Whole Foods hiring landscape effectively.

3. Whole Foods Interview Questions

Q1. Can you describe your previous experience in retail or customer service? (Experience & Background)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, outline your relevant work history clearly and concisely, focusing on experiences that demonstrate your skills in customer service and retail. Highlight any specific responsibilities or achievements that could be relevant to a role at Whole Foods, such as experience with natural or organic products, customer engagement, conflict resolution, or maintaining a positive store environment.

My Answer:
Certainly! Throughout my previous employment, I have accumulated several years of experience in retail and customer service. Here are some highlights from my background:

• I worked for two years at Green Market, a local organic grocer, where I was responsible for stocking shelves, maintaining product knowledge, and engaging with customers to assist them in making informed choices about their purchases.
• At Sunnyside Department Store, I served as a Customer Service Associate for a year. My duties included handling returns and exchanges, addressing customer inquiries, and ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
• I also spent a summer as a front-end cashier at Healthy Living, where I honed my skills in fast-paced transaction processing and learned the importance of a smooth checkout experience.

In all these roles, I’ve consistently received positive feedback for my ability to connect with customers and for maintaining a helpful and friendly attitude.

Q2. Why do you want to work at Whole Foods? (Interest in Brand)

How to Answer:
This question is your opportunity to show that you have done your research on Whole Foods and that your personal values align with the company’s ethos. Discuss what attracts you to the brand, whether it’s their quality standards, community involvement, commitment to sustainability, or the work culture they promote.

My Answer:
I have always admired Whole Foods for its steadfast commitment to providing high-quality, natural, and organic foods. I appreciate the company’s dedication to sustainable agriculture, animal welfare standards, and its efforts to support local farmers and producers. Moreover, Whole Foods’ values of caring for the community and providing exceptional customer service resonate strongly with me. I am eager to contribute to a team that prioritizes not just the bottom line, but also the wellness of its customers and the planet.

Q3. How would you handle a situation where a product a customer wants is out of stock? (Customer Service & Problem-Solving)

How to Answer:
In your response, demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your commitment to providing excellent customer service. Show that you would take proactive steps to remedy the situation, whether by offering alternative products, checking inventory, or helping to ensure the product can be obtained by the customer at a later time.

My Answer:
If a customer wanted a product that was out of stock, I would take the following steps:

• Apologize and Empathize: I would start by apologizing to the customer for the inconvenience and empathize with their disappointment.
• Suggest Alternatives: I would then suggest similar products that could meet their needs or offer to help them find a substitute that is equally satisfactory.
• Check Inventory: If the customer is set on the specific product, I would check the inventory system to see if it’s available at another nearby location or when it might be restocked at our store.
• Special Order or Hold: Offer to place a special order for the product, if possible, or ask if they would like to be notified when the item is back in stock.
• Follow Up: If the customer agrees to a special order or notification, I would ensure to follow up diligently and keep them informed on the status of their request.

By handling the situation with care and professionalism, I would aim to turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one, showing the customer that their satisfaction is a priority for Whole Foods.

Q4. Can you give an example of a time when you received excellent customer service? (Customer Service Understanding)

How to Answer:
Reflect on a memorable customer service experience you’ve had, and explain what made it stand out. Discuss the actions taken by the service provider and how they made you feel as a customer. This will show that you understand what good customer service looks like and how to replicate it.

My Answer:
Absolutely! I once had a memorable experience at a local bookstore where I received exceptional customer service. I was looking for a rare book that was not available on the shelves, and the employee went above and beyond to assist me. He checked their database, called other stores, and even found a way to order it from a supplier for me. Throughout the process, he kept me informed and displayed genuine enthusiasm to help. This experience stood out to me because his effort and proactive communication showed a high level of dedication to customer satisfaction. It made me feel valued and confident in the store’s commitment to their clientele.

Q5. What do you know about Whole Foods’ core values? (Company Knowledge)

How to Answer:
Before your interview, familiarize yourself with Whole Foods’ core values, which are available on their website and in their stores. Discuss a few of these values in your answer and explain why they are meaningful to you or how they align with your personal beliefs.

My Answer:
Whole Foods places a great emphasis on its core values, which guide their mission and everyday operations. Here’s a table highlighting some of the core values I am most aligned with and what they mean to me:

Core Value	Description	Personal Alignment
Selling the Highest Quality Natural & Organic Products	Whole Foods is committed to providing products that are good for people and the environment.	I deeply appreciate and share this commitment to quality and sustainability.
Satisfying & Delighting Our Customers	The company strives to exceed customer expectations through service.	I believe customer delight is essential in building loyalty and trust.
Promoting Team Member Growth & Happiness	Whole Foods supports its employees’ professional and personal growth.	Personal development is important to me, and I value employers who invest in their team.
Creating Wealth Through Profits & Growth	The company seeks profitability to ensure the prosperity of all stakeholders.	I understand the importance of a healthy business model for the longevity of the company and job security.
Caring About Our Communities & Our Environment	Whole Foods is an active community member and works toward environmental stewardship.	Community involvement and environmental responsibility are causes I am passionate about and look forward to supporting.

These core values resonate with me because they demonstrate Whole Foods’ dedication to excellence, not only in terms of products but also in fostering a positive work environment and a better world. I am excited about the prospect of working for a company that operates with such a comprehensive and ethical approach.

Q6. If a customer had a complaint about a product, how would you resolve the issue? (Customer Service & Complaint Handling)

How to Answer:
When discussing how you would handle a customer complaint, it’s essential to emphasize your commitment to customer satisfaction, your problem-solving skills, and your ability to stay calm under pressure. Talk about the steps you would take to understand the customer’s concern, empathize with their situation, and work towards a resolution that upholds the company’s standards and policies.

My Answer:
First and foremost, I would listen actively to the customer’s complaint, ensuring they feel heard and understood. My approach would involve the following steps:

• Acknowledge the issue and empathize with the customer’s dissatisfaction.
• Ask specific questions to gather more information and fully understand the problem.
• Apologize sincerely for any inconvenience caused, regardless of who is at fault.
• Assess the situation and determine the best course of action in line with Whole Foods’ policies.
• Act promptly to resolve the complaint, whether that means offering a replacement, refund, or another solution.
• Assure the customer that their feedback is valuable and will be used to prevent similar issues in the future.
• Follow up with the customer, if appropriate, to ensure that they are satisfied with the resolution.

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Q7. How do you feel about working in a team environment? (Teamwork & Collaboration)

How to Answer:
Express your enthusiasm for teamwork and discuss the strengths you bring to a team setting. Highlight your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and contribute to a positive team dynamic. Mention any past experiences where working in a team has led to successful outcomes.

My Answer:
I thrive in a team environment and believe that collaboration is key to achieving outstanding results. Here’s why I enjoy teamwork:

• Diverse Perspectives: Working with a team allows for multiple viewpoints and ideas, which can lead to innovative solutions.
• Shared Goals: In a team, we all work towards common objectives, which fosters a sense of unity and purpose.
• Learning Opportunities: Teams provide a platform to learn from others’ experiences and expertise.
• Support System: Team members support each other, making it easier to overcome challenges.

In my previous roles, I’ve found that effective communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen are crucial for a successful team dynamic.

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Q8. What is your understanding of organic and non-GMO foods? (Industry Knowledge)

How to Answer:
To answer this question, you should demonstrate your knowledge of the industry standards for organic and non-GMO foods. Explain the key differences and the importance of these food categories to Whole Foods Market’s brand and customer base.

My Answer:
Organic and non-GMO foods are two important categories in the natural foods industry:

• Organic Foods: These are grown and processed according to federal guidelines addressing factors like soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives. Organic producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible.

• Non-GMO Foods: Non-GMO stands for non-genetically modified organisms. This means that the food is produced without genetic engineering and its ingredients are not derived from GMOs. The Non-GMO Project Verified seal is one way consumers can identify products that meet this standard.

Whole Foods is known for its commitment to high-quality organic and non-GMO products, which aligns with its mission to offer the finest natural and organic foods.

Aspect	Organic Foods	Non-GMO Foods
Definition	Grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs	Produced without genetic engineering
Certification	USDA Organic	Non-GMO Project Verified
Focus	Environmental sustainability, animal welfare	Consumer choice, avoiding GMOs
Labeling	Organic label	Non-GMO Project seal

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Q9. Describe a time you had to work under pressure. How did you manage it? (Stress Management)

How to Answer:
Share a specific instance when you successfully navigated a high-pressure situation. Detail the context, the actions you took, and the results. Emphasize your time-management skills, ability to prioritize, and any stress-reduction techniques you used.

My Answer:
During my tenure at my previous job, we faced an unexpected product recall that increased our workload significantly:

• Context: The recall happened during the holiday season, our peak time.
• Action: I prioritized urgent tasks and delegated responsibilities among the team.
• Stress Management: I maintained a positive attitude and took short breaks to stay focused.
• Result: We successfully navigated the recall with minimal disruption to our service.

In high-pressure situations, I find that staying organized, leaning on teamwork, and keeping a cool head are essential for managing stress effectively.

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Q10. What makes you the best candidate for a position at Whole Foods? (Self-Assessment & Fit)

How to Answer:
This is your opportunity to sell yourself. Highlight your relevant experience, alignment with the company’s values, passion for quality food and customer service, and any unique skills that set you apart from other candidates.

My Answer:
I believe I am the best candidate for a position at Whole Foods for several reasons:

• Alignment with Company Values: I am passionate about organic and sustainable food practices, which aligns with Whole Foods’ mission.
• Customer Service Skills: My extensive experience in customer service has equipped me with the ability to handle any situation with grace and efficiency.
• Team Player: As someone who enjoys working in a collaborative environment, I can contribute to and thrive within Whole Foods’ team-based culture.
• Continuous Learner: I am committed to ongoing personal and professional development, which will keep me at the forefront of industry knowledge and trends.

As a dedicated and proactive individual with a deep appreciation for Whole Foods’ standards, I am ready to contribute positively to the company and its customers.

Q11. Are you familiar with the Whole Foods Market Intermission Program and how would you explain it to a customer? (Product/Service Knowledge)

How to Answer:
You should first ensure if there is a program called the "Whole Foods Market Intermission Program," as this might be hypothetical or specific to certain locations or times. If such a program exists, describe it accurately as per Whole Foods’ official communication. If it is a hypothetical program, you can create a plausible explanation based on what such a program could entail, such as a discount period, a seasonal promotion, or an educational program on food and nutrition.

My Answer:
I’m sorry, but as of my last update, I do not have information on a program called the "Whole Foods Market Intermission Program." It’s possible that this is a new initiative or a specific term used in certain Whole Foods Market regions, or it might be a hypothetical example for the purpose of this question. If you are referring to a real program, I would recommend checking the latest information from Whole Foods Market’s official resources or contacting a Whole Foods Market representative for details.

If I were to explain a hypothetical program like the "Intermission Program" to a customer, my explanation would be:

"The Whole Foods Market Intermission Program is a special initiative designed to enhance our customers’ shopping experience. It may involve a variety of activities, such as exclusive discounts, educational seminars on healthy eating, cooking demonstrations, or a pause on certain services for program upgrades. The goal is to provide additional value to our customers and engage with the community on a deeper level."

Q12. How would you contribute to a positive work environment at Whole Foods? (Teamwork & Positive Impact)

How to Answer:
Discuss specific actions and attitudes you would bring to the team that lead to a positive work environment. Emphasize teamwork, communication, respect, enthusiasm, and a willingness to help others.

My Answer:
To contribute to a positive work environment at Whole Foods, I would:

• Foster Open Communication: Create an atmosphere where colleagues feel comfortable sharing ideas and feedback.
• Show Respect: Treat all coworkers with respect and kindness, regardless of their position.
• Be a Team Player: Always be ready to lend a hand to a team member in need.
• Maintain a Positive Attitude: Keep a positive and can-do attitude, even in challenging situations.
• Embrace Diversity: Celebrate the diverse backgrounds and perspectives within the team.
• Encourage and Recognize Efforts: Give positive reinforcement for good work to motivate my peers.
• Lead by Example: Uphold high standards of work and ethics that reflect Whole Foods’ core values.

Q13. How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift? (Time Management & Prioritization)

How to Answer:
Explain your approach to managing multiple tasks and how you decide what needs immediate attention. You can mention tools or methods you use for prioritization.

My Answer:
During a busy shift, I prioritize tasks by:

• Assessing Urgency and Importance: Identifying which tasks need immediate attention and which can wait.
• Making Lists: Creating a to-do list, ordering tasks by priority.
• Delegating: Utilizing the team effectively to share the workload.
• Using Time Blocks: Allocating specific time blocks to focus on the most critical tasks.
• Staying Flexible: Being ready to re-prioritize if unexpected situations arise.

Q14. What steps would you take to ensure food safety and hygiene in the store? (Food Safety & Hygiene)

How to Answer:
Describe the standard practices for maintaining food safety and hygiene, relating them to Whole Foods Market’s known standards if possible.

My Answer:
To ensure food safety and hygiene in the store, I would take the following steps:

• Regular Hand Washing: Frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Proper Food Storage: Adhere to temperature controls and storage guidelines to prevent spoilage and contamination.
• Routine Cleaning: Maintain a regular cleaning schedule for all equipment and surfaces.
• Cross-Contamination Prevention: Use separate utensils and cutting boards for different types of food.
• Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic checks to ensure that all food safety protocols are being followed.
• Employee Training: Ensure all staff are trained and aware of food safety practices.

Q15. Can you discuss a time when you had to adapt to a significant change at work? (Adaptability)

How to Answer:
Share a personal experience where you faced a significant change in the workplace. Reflect on how you adjusted and what you learned from the experience.

My Answer:

Situation	Task	Action	Result
A major company restructuring resulted in the merging of two departments.	I had to integrate with a team that had a different set of processes and culture.	I took the initiative to learn from the new team members, understand their workflows, and shared my own experiences.	I was able to blend the best practices from both teams, which improved overall productivity and fostered a cooperative team environment.

In adapting to this change, I learned the importance of being open-minded, proactive in communication, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Q16. Describe your approach to building rapport with customers. (Customer Relations)

How to Answer:
Building rapport with customers is essential in creating a pleasant shopping experience and fostering customer loyalty. When framing your answer, emphasize active listening, genuine interest, personalized service, and a friendly demeanor. Providing examples from past experiences, if applicable, can help illustrate your approach.

My Answer:
To build rapport with customers, I focus on:

• Active Listening: I pay close attention to what customers say, ensuring I understand their needs and preferences. This helps me provide tailored recommendations and solutions.
• Personal Interaction: Being personable and showing genuine interest in the customers’ lives, such as asking about their day or remembering their favorite products, helps create a connection.
• Product Knowledge: I make sure to be well-informed about the products so that I can engage customers in meaningful conversations and answer their questions confidently.
• Consistent Follow-Up: I believe in following up with customers when necessary to ensure they are satisfied with their purchases or to inform them about new products they might be interested in.

Q17. How do you ensure accuracy when handling cash transactions? (Accuracy & Cash Handling)

How to Answer:
When discussing cash handling, it’s important to highlight your attention to detail, methodical approach, and adherence to company policies. Mention any previous experience you have that demonstrates your ability to manage financial transactions reliably.

My Answer:
To ensure accuracy when handling cash transactions, I:

• Count Twice: Always count the money twice before handing it over to the customer and before closing the register.
• Stay Organized: Keep different denominations separated and in order, which makes counting easier and errors less likely.
• Use Technology: Rely on the register and POS system to calculate change, but verify the amount manually as a backup check.
• Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and give my full attention to the transaction at hand, from the moment the customer hands me cash to the point I give change back.
• Adhere to Procedures: Follow all store policies for cash handling, including checks for counterfeit bills and proper recording of transactions.

Q18. What interests you about working with natural and organic products? (Personal Interest & Industry Relevance)

How to Answer:
Expressing enthusiasm for natural and organic products can show alignment with Whole Foods Market’s values. Discuss any personal beliefs or experiences that have drawn you to the industry, and how you believe working at Whole Foods will enable you to support and advocate for healthier, sustainable choices.

My Answer:
I am deeply interested in natural and organic products because:

• Health Consciousness: I believe in the health benefits of consuming products that are free from artificial additives and pesticides.
• Environmental Impact: I am concerned about the environment and appreciate that organic farming practices are generally more sustainable and kinder to the planet.
• Ethical Considerations: Supporting fair trade and ethically produced goods is important to me, as it ensures that workers and producers are treated fairly.
• Personal Well-being: I have personally experienced positive changes in my well-being by shifting to natural and organic products and am excited about helping others make similar choices.

Q19. How would you deal with a conflict between coworkers? (Conflict Resolution)

How to Answer:
Handling conflict resolution in a professional setting requires diplomacy, impartiality, and effective communication skills. Describe a step-by-step approach that shows you can be a calming presence and facilitate a resolution in a way that respects all parties involved.

My Answer:
To deal with a conflict between coworkers, I would:

1. Listen to Both Sides: Ensure that each coworker has the opportunity to express their perspective without interruption.
2. Identify the Core Issue: Find out the root cause of the conflict by asking clarifying questions.
3. Seek Common Ground: Encourage coworkers to identify areas of agreement or shared objectives.
4. Facilitate Compromise: Help guide the coworkers towards a compromise that acknowledges each person’s concerns and works for both parties.
5. Involve Management: If the conflict cannot be resolved between the coworkers, I would suggest involving a manager to mediate further.

Q20. Have you ever had to upsell a product? Can you describe the approach you used? (Sales & Persuasion Skills)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, the focus should be on your ability to identify customer needs, provide relevant information, and suggest additional products in a helpful, non-pushy manner. If you have previous experience, share specific strategies or examples of your success.

My Answer:
I have had experience upselling products. Here’s the approach I used:

• Identify Customer Needs: By engaging the customer in conversation, I assess what they are looking for and what additional needs they might have.
• Educate the Customer: I inform the customer about the benefits and value of a higher-end or complementary product.
• Personalize Recommendations: Using the information gathered, I make personalized recommendations that fit the customer’s wants or needs.
• Be Enthusiastic: Demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and confidence in the product helps to persuade customers.
• Know When to Stop: It’s crucial to recognize when a customer is not interested in upselling and to respect their decision without being pushy.

Q21. What do you think are the most significant challenges facing grocery retailers today? (Industry Insight)

How to Answer:
In your response, demonstrate a clear understanding of the current grocery retail landscape and the challenges it faces. Consider economic factors, competition, technology, consumer behavior, and regulatory issues. Tailoring your answer to Whole Foods’ specific context can also show your insight into the company’s position within the industry.

My Answer:
The grocery retail industry is currently navigating a complex and rapidly changing environment. Here are some of the most significant challenges:

• Competition: With the rise of online shopping and delivery services, traditional grocery stores face stiff competition from e-commerce giants and new tech-driven companies.
• Consumer Preferences: Today’s consumers are more health-conscious and environmentally-aware, demanding high-quality, organic, and sustainably-sourced products.
• Technology Integration: Implementing and updating technology to enhance the shopping experience, such as self-checkout and personalized mobile apps, can be costly and complex.
• Supply Chain Management: Fluctuating prices, supply disruptions, and the need for efficient logistics are ongoing concerns that can affect product availability and cost.
• Regulatory Compliance: Staying abreast of food safety regulations, labor laws, and other compliance issues requires constant vigilance and adaptation.
• Labor Challenges: Recruiting and retaining skilled staff in a competitive labor market can be difficult, especially given the industry’s traditionally high turnover rates.

Q22. How would you stay informed about new products and promotions at Whole Foods? (Continuous Learning & Information Management)

How to Answer:
Discuss the specific resources and strategies you would use to keep up-to-date with company news, products, and promotions. This may include both formal and informal methods of information gathering.

My Answer:
To stay informed about new products and promotions at Whole Foods, I would:

• Use Company Resources: Regularly check the Whole Foods Market intranet, email newsletters, and bulletin boards for updates.
• Engage with Training: Participate in any training sessions or webinars related to new product releases or promotional campaigns.
• Communicate with Peers: Build a network with colleagues to share information and insights about new developments in the store.
• Attend Meetings: Be present at team meetings where new product information is often shared.
• Follow External Sources: Keep an eye on Whole Foods’ social media channels and website as they often announce new products and promotions.

Q23. What are your strategies for staying motivated during repetitive tasks? (Motivation & Task Management)

How to Answer:
Explain how you maintain enthusiasm and high performance levels when faced with tasks that may become monotonous. Your strategies should show self-awareness and a proactive approach to work.

My Answer:
To stay motivated during repetitive tasks, I use the following strategies:

• Set Mini-Goals: Break down tasks into smaller, achievable goals to create a sense of progress.
• Reward System: Reward myself after completing each task or subtask to maintain a positive reinforcement cycle.
• Maintain a Routine: Stick to a routine to build momentum and create a rhythm that can make the task more manageable.
• Stay Organized: Keep my workspace organized to minimize distractions and maintain focus.
• Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to stay present and engaged with the task at hand.

Q24. If you saw a team member not following store protocols, what would you do? (Integrity & Protocol Adherence)

How to Answer:
Your answer should reflect your commitment to the company’s standards and your ability to handle situations with integrity and professionalism.

My Answer:
If I saw a team member not following store protocols, I would:

• Assess the Situation: Determine if it’s a one-time mistake or a recurring issue.
• Address the Team Member: If appropriate, I would approach the team member directly and remind them of the protocol in a non-confrontational manner.
• Escalate if Necessary: If the behavior continues or the situation is serious, I would report it to a supervisor or manager to address.

Q25. Can you describe a situation where you went above and beyond for a customer? (Customer Service Excellence)

How to Answer:
Share a specific anecdote from your past work experience that showcases your exceptional customer service skills. Be sure to describe the situation, your actions, and the positive outcome.

My Answer:
I recall a situation where a customer was looking for a specific dietary supplement that was out of stock. Here’s how I went above and beyond:

• Identified the Need: The customer needed the supplement as part of a regimen for a health condition.
• Sought Alternatives: I checked with other nearby stores for availability and found one that had it in stock.
• Offered Extra Service: I arranged for the product to be transferred to our store and reserved it for the customer.
• Followed Up: I called the customer once the product arrived and held it until they were able to pick it up.

This proactive approach not only helped the customer but also demonstrated Whole Foods’ commitment to customer service.

4. Tips for Preparation

Preparing for a Whole Foods interview requires a mix of company knowledge, role-specific skills, and personal readiness. Start by delving into Whole Foods’ core values, culture, and products—understanding the company’s commitment to quality and community will help you align your answers with their ethos. Brush up on your knowledge of organic and non-GMO foods, as this is crucial to their brand.

Next, assess the job description and pinpoint the key skills required. If customer service is paramount, rehearse scenarios that showcase your problem-solving and interpersonal abilities. For leadership roles, prepare examples of past team management successes. Remember, evidence of your adaptability and initiative can set you apart.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, present yourself as a candidate who embodies Whole Foods’ values. Be confident and authentic, demonstrating your passion for high-quality, sustainable products and customer satisfaction. Interviewers often look for team players who are eager to learn and contribute to a positive work environment.

Avoid common mistakes such as speaking negatively about previous employers or appearing unenthusiastic. Be ready to ask insightful questions about your role, team dynamics, or the company’s future initiatives—this shows engagement and forward-thinking.

Post-interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. It’s a small gesture that can leave a lasting positive impression. Typically, Whole Foods may take a few days to a few weeks to provide feedback, so be patient but proactive in your follow-up.