1. Introduction
Preparing for an interview can often be an exercise in anticipation and strategy, particularly when the interview is with a well-known company such as Publix. In this article, we delve into the common publix interview questions that you might face and offer insights on how to respond effectively. Whether you are a first-time job seeker or an experienced professional, understanding these questions can help you prepare and stand out in your interview.
2. Unpacking the Publix Hiring Experience
Publix Super Markets Inc. has built a reputation for being one of the largest and fastest-growing employee-owned supermarket chains in the United States. Renowned for its commitment to customer service, Publix places a significant emphasis on hiring individuals who not only have the right skills but also fit the company’s culture and values. When stepping into a Publix interview, it’s important to recognize that you’re not just demonstrating your qualifications for the job, but also showcasing your ability to contribute to a team-oriented, customer-focused environment. A successful candidate is one who can balance personal achievement with the collective success of the store.
3. Publix Interview Questions
Q1. Can you describe your previous work experience and how it prepares you for a role at Publix? (Experience & Suitability)
How to Answer:
When addressing this question, you should highlight relevant experiences that have equipped you with skills pertinent to the position you are applying for at Publix. Focus on experiences that demonstrate customer service skills, teamwork, responsibility, and any specific job-related skills. Be honest and concise, and emphasize how your past roles have shaped you into a candidate who can add value to the Publix team.
My Answer:
I have worked in various customer service roles that have honed my ability to interact effectively with customers and resolve issues promptly. For example, in my previous job as a cashier at a local grocery store, I was responsible for managing transactions and ensuring customer satisfaction at check-out. This role required strong attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently under pressure, which are critical skills for any position at Publix.
In addition to my cashier experience, I also worked as a stock associate where I learned the importance of inventory management and the need for a well-organized store layout to enhance the shopping experience. This role taught me the value of teamwork and communication as we often had to coordinate with various departments to ensure product availability and timely restocking.
Overall, my previous work experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation in customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork, which I believe are essential for succeeding in a customer-focused environment like Publix.
Q2. Why do you want to work at Publix? (Motivation & Cultural Fit)
How to Answer:
Express genuine reasons why you’re interested in working for Publix. This could include the company’s reputation for excellent customer service, opportunities for career growth, the values and culture of the company, or any personal connections you have to the brand. Make sure to demonstrate that you’ve done your research on Publix and align your motivations with the company’s ethos.
My Answer:
I want to work at Publix because I admire the company’s commitment to providing exceptional customer service and its emphasis on community involvement. Publix has a reputation for fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment, and I am eager to be part of a team that values mutual respect and teamwork. Additionally, I am impressed by Publix’s dedication to employee development and the numerous opportunities for professional growth it offers. As someone who is always looking to improve and take on new challenges, I believe Publix is the perfect place for me to advance my career while contributing positively to the company and its customers.
Q3. How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsatisfied with a product they purchased? (Customer Service & Problem-Solving)
How to Answer:
In your answer, focus on demonstrating your problem-solving skills and your commitment to excellent customer service. Outline a clear step-by-step approach on how you would address the customer’s concerns, showcasing your ability to listen, empathize, and resolve issues efficiently. It’s also important to mention any company policies you would adhere to in such a situation.
My Answer:
- Listen actively to the customer’s concerns without interrupting and acknowledge their dissatisfaction.
- Show empathy and understanding without placing blame on the customer or the company.
- Clarify the exact issue with the product and ask for any relevant details to better understand the problem.
- Inform the customer about Publix’s return or exchange policy and offer to replace the product or process a refund if applicable.
- Take action to resolve the issue expediently, ensuring the customer feels taken care of.
- Apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank the customer for bringing the issue to your attention.
- Report the incident to a supervisor, if necessary, and discuss any possible improvements in processes or products to prevent future occurrences.
By following these steps, I would handle the situation with professionalism and care, ensuring the customer leaves satisfied and confident in Publix’s commitment to quality service.
Q4. Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team. What was your role? (Teamwork & Collaboration)
How to Answer:
Reflect on an experience where teamwork was essential to achieving a goal. Describe the context, your specific role within the team, how you interacted with team members, and what the outcome was. Emphasize your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and contribute to the team’s success.
My Answer:
In my previous role as a sales associate at a clothing store, I was part of a team responsible for organizing a major seasonal sale. My role was to coordinate with the inventory team to ensure all sale items were in stock and properly displayed. I worked closely with my colleagues to develop a floor plan that maximized space and enhanced the shopping experience.
Throughout this process, I communicated regularly with my team, providing updates and feedback. When challenges arose, such as a delay in inventory delivery, I took the initiative to propose a temporary solution by rearranging existing stock to fill gaps. Our collaboration and problem-solving efforts led to a highly successful sale period, with increased customer satisfaction and significant sales growth for the store.
Q5. How would you deal with a coworker who isn’t pulling their weight? (Conflict Resolution & Team Management)
How to Answer:
When responding to this question, it’s important to show that you can handle conflict professionally and constructively. Outline a step-by-step approach to addressing the issue, emphasizing communication, empathy, and the desire to maintain a positive work environment. Highlight your ability to seek solutions that benefit the team as a whole without alienating the coworker in question.
My Answer:
If I encountered a situation where a coworker was not pulling their weight, I would:
- Assess the Situation: I would first make sure that my perception of the situation is accurate by observing the coworker’s behavior over time and considering any external factors that might be affecting their performance.
- Open a Dialogue: I would approach the coworker privately and initiate a respectful conversation, giving them the opportunity to share their perspective on the situation.
- Offer Support: If there are obstacles they’re facing, I would offer assistance or resources that might help them improve their performance.
- Set Expectations: I would discuss the importance of their role and the impact of their performance on the team, emphasizing the need for everyone’s contribution.
- Follow Up: After our initial discussion, I would continue to monitor the situation and provide feedback as necessary.
- Involve Management: If there’s no improvement, I would escalate the issue to a supervisor for further action, ensuring it’s done in a manner that is professional and maintains the dignity of all parties involved.
By taking this approach, I aim to resolve the issue with understanding and efficiency while fostering a team environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best work.
Q6. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer. (Customer Service & Initiative)
How to Answer:
To answer this question effectively, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Briefly explain the situation, describe the task you were facing, what action you took to go above and beyond, and then share the result of your action. It’s important to focus on the positive outcome and what you learned from the experience.
My Answer:
- Situation: In my previous job at a local bookstore, we had a customer who was looking for a specific and somewhat rare book as a gift for their spouse’s birthday. The book was not available in our store or any nearby locations.
- Task: The challenge was to ensure the customer left happy and with the book in hand before the birthday date, which was in a week.
- Action: I took the initiative to search for the book through our supplier networks. I found a supplier who had it in stock but was located in another state. I arranged for expedited shipping directly to the customer’s address and also wrapped the book in gift paper with a personalized note from the store.
- Result: The customer received the book in time for the birthday and was extremely grateful for the personalized service. They wrote a glowing review online and became a loyal customer. This experience taught me the value of going the extra mile to create exceptional customer experiences.
Q7. What do you think are the most important qualities for someone working in retail? (Industry Insight & Personal Qualities)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, identify key traits and skills that are valuable in retail and explain why they are important. Consider the various challenges and tasks faced in a retail setting and link the qualities to those.
My Answer:
I believe that some of the most important qualities for someone working in retail include:
- Customer Service Orientation: Being able to address customer needs effectively and creating a positive shopping experience is crucial.
- Flexibility: The retail environment is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring employees to adapt to different situations and schedules.
- Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with both customers and team members is essential for success in retail.
- Teamwork: Retail often involves working closely with others, so being able to collaborate and support fellow team members is important.
- Attention to Detail: Retail workers must be able to manage products, handle transactions accurately, and maintain presentation standards.
- Integrity: Trustworthiness and honesty are vital, especially when handling payments and dealing with merchandise.
Q8. How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple pressing duties? (Time Management & Prioritization)
How to Answer:
Discuss the strategies you use to manage your time and prioritize tasks. Explaining your thought process and giving examples can illustrate your ability to handle a busy retail environment efficiently.
My Answer:
When I have multiple pressing duties, I prioritize tasks by:
- Assessing Urgency and Importance: I evaluate which tasks need immediate attention and which ones have the most significant impact on the business or customer experience.
- Creating a To-Do List: I list all tasks and then organize them based on the assessment above.
- Time-Blocking: For larger tasks, I allocate specific time blocks during the day to focus solely on those tasks.
- Delegation: If appropriate, I delegate tasks to other team members when it can be done more efficiently or when it falls within their area of responsibility.
- Adjusting Priorities as Needed: Retail is unpredictable, and sometimes immediate customer needs can shift priorities. I stay flexible and reassess my priorities as the day progresses.
Q9. How do you handle stress and pressure, especially during busy periods? (Stress Management & Resilience)
How to Answer:
Provide strategies that you use to manage stress and maintain a high level of performance under pressure. It’s important to show that you can stay calm and effective when the retail environment gets hectic.
My Answer:
To handle stress and pressure during busy periods, I:
- Stay Organized: Keeping my workspace and tasks organized helps me to feel in control and reduces stress.
- Focus on One Task at a Time: Multitasking can be overwhelming, so I try to focus on completing one task fully before moving on to the next.
- Take Short Breaks: When possible, I take short breaks to clear my mind and avoid burnout.
- Breathe and Stay Positive: I practice deep breathing exercises if I start to feel overwhelmed and maintain a positive mindset to keep morale high.
- Lean on Team Support: I communicate with my team and support each other during peak times, which helps to distribute the workload and stress.
Q10. What is your experience with handling cash and operating registers? (Technical Skills & Trustworthiness)
How to Answer:
Discuss your experience with cash handling and operating registers, including any specific systems you’ve used. If you have experience with reconciling cash drawers or preventing discrepancies, mention this as well.
My Answer:
My experience with handling cash and operating registers includes:
| System | Time Used | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| POS System A | 2 years | Processing transactions, applying discounts, handling cash, credit, and gift card payments |
| POS System B | 1 year | Opening and closing registers, reconciling cash drawers, issuing refunds and exchanges |
- In addition to operating these systems, I have experience with balancing cash drawers at the end of shifts, ensuring that there are no discrepancies. My accuracy and attention to detail have been commended by previous employers.
- I am also familiar with common troubleshooting steps if the register malfunctions, allowing for minimal disruption to customer service.
- My trustworthiness has been proven through handling large amounts of cash and maintaining a record of accurate transactions.
Q11. Describe a time when you had to quickly learn a new skill or procedure. (Adaptability & Learning Ability)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to convey your adaptability and willingness to learn new things. Outline a specific situation, the skill or procedure you had to learn, how you approached the learning process, and the outcome. It’s beneficial to show that you have a methodical approach to learning and that you can apply new skills effectively.
My Answer:
I recall a time in my previous job when our company implemented a new customer relationship management (CRM) system to better track customer interactions and sales. I was tasked with becoming proficient in this new software as quickly as possible to minimize any disruption to our sales processes.
- Situation: Our company adopted a new CRM system.
- Task: Learn and utilize the system effectively.
- Action: I dedicated extra hours to go through the provided training materials, participated in online tutorials, and practiced using the software through trial and error. I also sought advice and tips from colleagues who were more experienced with similar systems.
- Result: Within two weeks, I was able to navigate the system confidently and even helped to train several of my colleagues, contributing to a smoother transition for our team.
Q12. Are you familiar with Publix’s range of products and services? Can you give an example? (Product Knowledge & Preparation)
How to Answer:
This question assesses whether you’ve done your homework on Publix and understand what they offer. Before the interview, research the company’s products and services. Provide specific examples to show your knowledge and how it aligns with Publix’s offerings.
My Answer:
Yes, I am quite familiar with Publix’s range of products and services. Publix is known for its wide selection of groceries, including fresh produce, bakery items, deli goods, and a variety of organic and non-GMO products. They also have a pharmacy, offer cooking classes, and have a catering service.
- Examples:
- Groceries: Publix offers a vast variety of food products, including specialty items and international foods.
- Pharmacy Services: They provide convenient onsite pharmacies in many of their stores.
- Cooking Classes: At select locations, Publix offers cooking classes through their Aprons Cooking School.
- Catering: They provide a catering service that offers platters and prepared foods for events.
Q13. How do you feel about standing for long periods or handling physical tasks such as lifting and stocking? (Physical Ability & Comfort)
How to Answer:
This question aims to determine if you’re physically capable of handling the job’s demands. Be honest about your capabilities and if you have any limitations, but also emphasize your willingness to take on physical tasks as part of the job.
My Answer:
I understand that retail work, particularly at a grocery store like Publix, often requires employees to be on their feet for extended periods and to perform tasks that involve lifting and stocking. I am in good physical condition and comfortable with these aspects of the job. I always make sure to follow proper lifting techniques and ergonomic practices to prevent any injuries. I’m also open to wearing supportive footwear to ensure I can stand comfortably throughout my shifts.
Q14. How would you handle a conflict with a team member or a supervisor? (Conflict Resolution & Professionalism)
How to Answer:
Conflict resolution questions are designed to assess your interpersonal skills and professionalism. Describe a structured approach to handling disagreements and emphasize communication, respect, and a positive outcome.
My Answer:
In situations of conflict, my approach is to first understand the other person’s perspective. I believe effective communication is key to resolving disputes professionally. Here’s how I would handle it:
- Listen: I start by actively listening to the other person’s concerns without interrupting.
- Empathize: I try to empathize with their situation to understand the root cause of the conflict.
- Discuss: Once I fully understand their viewpoint, I calmly present my side and discuss potential solutions.
- Collaborate: I aim to collaborate with the team member or supervisor to find a mutually beneficial resolution.
- Follow-up: After an agreement is reached, I would follow up to ensure that the resolution is being implemented and the conflict does not arise again.
Q15. Why should we hire you over other candidates? (Self-Assessment & Persuasive Ability)
How to Answer:
This is your chance to sell yourself. Highlight your unique skills, experiences, and qualities that make you the ideal fit for the job. Be specific about how these attributes align with Publix’s needs and culture.
My Answer:
You should consider hiring me over other candidates because I bring a unique combination of skills and experiences that align well with Publix’s values and customer service standards.
| Attribute | Description | Alignment with Publix’s Values |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service Experience | Extensive background in retail customer service. | Commitment to customer satisfaction |
| Teamwork and Collaboration | Proven ability to work effectively in collaborative environments. | Emphasis on teamwork |
| Adaptability | Quick learner who adapts readily to new systems and procedures. | Innovation and continuous improvement |
| Detail-Oriented | Attention to detail ensures high-quality work and error reduction. | Quality in the details |
| Positive Attitude | A consistently positive and proactive attitude in the workplace. | Creating a pleasant shopping experience |
I am a keen learner who is always looking for ways to improve and contribute positively to team dynamics. Given my dedication to excellence and my alignment with Publix’s core values, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.
Q16. Do you have any experience with food preparation or handling? (Specific Skills & Food Safety)
How to Answer:
When answering this question, you should be honest about your past experiences. If you have experience with food preparation or handling, describe the setting, the tasks you performed, and any relevant certifications, such as a food handler’s card. If you don’t have direct experience, talk about any skills you have that could be related, such as attention to detail or cleanliness, and your willingness to learn. Be sure to mention your understanding of food safety principles.
My Answer:
Yes, I have experience in food preparation and handling. During my time working at a local restaurant, I was responsible for:
- Preparing ingredients for the day’s menu items
- Ensuring that food was stored at the correct temperatures
- Cooking and plating food according to established recipes and presentation standards
- Keeping the work area clean and sanitized to prevent cross-contamination
- Following all food safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of customers
I also have a current food handler’s card, which has helped me deepen my understanding of food safety protocols.
Q17. How important is punctuality to you, and how do you ensure you’re always on time? (Reliability & Time Management)
How to Answer:
Employers value punctuality as it indicates reliability. To answer this question effectively, explain why being on time is important to you and the methods you use to ensure timeliness. It could be helpful to give examples of how you manage your time or any tools you use to maintain a punctual schedule.
My Answer:
Punctuality is extremely important to me as it reflects respect for others’ time and commitment to my responsibilities. I ensure that I’m always on time by:
- Planning my trips and setting reminders on my phone for when I need to leave
- Allowing extra time for unexpected delays
- Preparing any necessary materials the night before
- Regularly reviewing my schedule to stay organized and aware of upcoming commitments
Q18. Can you discuss a time when you had to adapt to a significant change at work? (Adaptability & Change Management)
How to Answer:
Discussing adaptability demonstrates your ability to handle uncertainty and new situations. Share a specific example, the actions you took, and the outcomes. Focus on the positive aspects, such as what you learned from the experience and how it helped you grow professionally.
My Answer:
At my previous job, the company implemented a new point-of-sale system that completely changed the way we processed transactions. To adapt to this significant change:
- I attended all training sessions and practiced using the new system during off-hours.
- I volunteered to help my colleagues with the transition by sharing tips and troubleshooting issues.
- I remained open-minded and patient, recognizing that change can lead to improvements.
- As a result, I quickly became proficient with the new system and even helped improve our team’s transaction speed over time.
Q19. How do you ensure accuracy in your work, especially when dealing with inventory or transactions? (Attention to Detail & Accuracy)
How to Answer:
Accuracy is critical in many roles, especially those involving inventory management or financial transactions. Detail your methods or strategies for maintaining accuracy in your work, such as double-checking your work, using technology to assist you, or maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
My Answer:
To ensure accuracy in my work, I have developed several strategies:
- Double-checking: I always review my work at least once before considering it final, whether it’s counting inventory or completing a transaction.
- Organization: Keeping an organized workspace helps minimize errors, as everything has its place, and clutter is reduced.
- Technology: Using tools and software designed to assist in maintaining accuracy, such as barcode scanners or inventory management systems.
- Focus: I make a conscious effort to avoid multitasking when accuracy is crucial, as this can lead to mistakes.
Q20. Have you ever had to deal with theft or suspected theft, and how did you handle it? (Integrity & Security Awareness)
How to Answer:
This question is about assessing your integrity and response to ethical dilemmas. Explain the situation, your immediate actions, and how you followed company policies. It’s important to show that you can remain calm and professional while taking appropriate actions.
My Answer:
Yes, I have encountered suspected theft while working at a retail store. Here’s how I handled the situation:
- Upon noticing that inventory numbers were not matching up, I reported the discrepancy to my supervisor.
- I followed the company’s protocol by not accusing anyone directly and allowing the management to conduct an investigation.
- I cooperated fully with the investigation by providing any information I had and by being vigilant for any further signs of theft.
| Action Taken | Description |
|---|---|
| Reported to Supervisor | Notified my immediate supervisor about the suspected theft incident. |
| Followed Company Protocol | Ensured that I acted according to the company’s established procedures. |
| Maintained Professionalism | Remained composed and avoided personal confrontation with any staff. |
| Cooperated with Inquiry | Provided clear and honest information during the investigation. |
By following this approach, I contributed to a resolution that was handled fairly and according to company policy.
Q21. What do you do to stay informed about new products and updates in the grocery industry? (Continuous Learning & Industry Engagement)
How to Answer:
You should demonstrate that you are proactive about staying updated with industry trends and new product releases. This can be achieved by mentioning specific resources such as trade magazines, online forums, webinars, and conferences. Show that you understand the importance of continuous learning to stay competitive and provide the best service to customers.
My Answer:
To stay informed about new products and updates in the grocery industry, I engage in several activities that ensure I’m up-to-date with the latest developments:
- I subscribe to and regularly read industry-related publications, such as "Progressive Grocer" and "Supermarket News."
- I follow industry influencers and thought leaders on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter.
- I participate in webinars and attend trade shows whenever possible to learn about upcoming products and trends firsthand.
- I also make it a habit to check updates from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies to understand any changes that might affect product offerings.
- Additionally, I network with peers in the industry to share insights and learn from their experiences.
Q22. How would you engage with customers to ensure they have a positive shopping experience? (Customer Engagement & Salesmanship)
How to Answer:
Discuss techniques that demonstrate your customer service skills and your ability to engage with customers in a positive and helpful manner. It’s important to be specific about the strategies you use to establish rapport, assist customers, and ensure they leave the store satisfied.
My Answer:
To ensure customers have a positive shopping experience, I would engage with them through the following means:
- Greeting Customers Warmly: Offering a friendly greeting as they enter the store sets a welcoming tone.
- Active Listening: Paying close attention to customer inquiries or comments and providing thoughtful responses.
- Product Knowledge: Being well-informed about the store’s products so I can make accurate recommendations based on customer needs.
- Providing Assistance: Offering help proactively, such as by helping customers find items or explaining the benefits of products.
- Checking In: Following up with customers while they shop to ensure they’re finding everything they need.
Q23. Describe how you would respond if you noticed a safety hazard in the store. (Safety Awareness & Initiative)
How to Answer:
Your response should illustrate your ability to act swiftly and responsibly in the face of potential danger. It’s important to show that you take safety seriously and you know the appropriate steps to mitigate risks.
My Answer:
If I noticed a safety hazard in the store, my response would involve the following steps:
- Immediate Action: If possible, I would take immediate action to remove or mitigate the hazard. For example, if there’s a spill, I would mark the area and begin cleanup.
- Informing Management: I would promptly report the hazard to a supervisor or store manager, providing details about the nature and location of the issue.
- Documentation: If required, I would fill out any necessary incident reports or documentation to ensure there’s a record of the hazard and the response.
- Follow-Up: I would follow up to ensure that the hazard has been addressed and that no other risks are present.
Q24. How do you approach goal setting and achieving sales targets or other performance metrics? (Goal-Setting & Performance)
How to Answer:
Discuss your process for setting realistic goals and the strategies you use to meet or exceed them. Mention any tools or methods that help you track progress and stay motivated.
My Answer:
My approach to goal setting and achieving sales targets includes the following steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Set Clear Goals | Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. |
| Create a Plan | Outline the actions necessary to achieve these goals, including the resources required. |
| Track Progress | Use tools like sales dashboards or performance tracking spreadsheets to monitor progress regularly. |
| Adjust Strategies | Be flexible and willing to adjust tactics if certain methods aren’t working as expected. |
| Review and Reflect | Analyze performance after the set period to understand successes and areas for improvement. |
Q25. Can you give an example of when you received constructive criticism and how you responded to it? (Receptiveness to Feedback & Personal Growth)
How to Answer:
Share a specific instance where you received feedback that helped you improve in your role or personally. It’s crucial to show that you can accept criticism positively and use it for growth.
My Answer:
During a performance review, my supervisor pointed out that while my sales numbers were strong, there could be an improvement in how I managed my time, particularly during peak hours. The feedback was that I should prioritize tasks more effectively to optimize customer service and reduce wait times.
- Reflect: I took some time to reflect on this feedback, understanding that it was intended to help me become more efficient.
- Develop a Plan: I decided to develop a plan, which included creating a prioritized task list each day, focusing on the most impactful activities during peak hours.
- Implement Changes: I implemented these changes and also sought advice from more experienced colleagues on time management strategies.
- Evaluate: After a few weeks, I reviewed the changes with my supervisor and found that there was a notable improvement in my time management.
By embracing this constructive criticism, I was able to improve my performance, which also contributed to an enhanced customer experience.
4. Tips for Preparation
Before stepping into your Publix interview, take the time to review the company’s mission and values. Understanding Publix’s commitment to customer service and community will help you align your answers with what they prioritize. For role-specific preparation, if you’re applying for a position that involves handling food, refresh your knowledge on food safety protocols. If the role is customer-facing, practice scenarios requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills. Brush up on your soft skills, especially teamwork and adaptability, as these are often highlighted in retail environments.
5. During & After the Interview
During the interview, present yourself as a professional and enthusiastic candidate. Make eye contact, engage with a firm handshake, and wear attire that matches the company’s dress code. Interviewers often seek candidates who are not just qualified, but also those who demonstrate a genuine interest in being part of the Publix family. Avoid common mistakes such as speaking negatively about past employers or showing up unprepared.
After the interview, it’s considerate to send a thank-you email to express appreciation for the opportunity. This gesture can set you apart and serves as a reminder of your enthusiasm for the role. Additionally, prepare some thoughtful questions for your interviewer about the company culture or opportunities for growth, showing that you are thinking long-term. While waiting for feedback, it’s normal to follow up if you haven’t heard back within the company’s specified timeline, but always do so courteously.