Top 25 Store Management Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

Preparing for a job interview in store management requires a deep understanding of the retail space and the ability to articulate your relevant experience and strategies. This article delves into a comprehensive list of store management interview questions that hiring managers might ask to assess your qualifications for the role. Whether you’re an experienced manager or an aspiring leader in the retail industry, these questions will help you prepare to showcase your skills and fit for the position.

Store Management Insight: Role-Specific Considerations

Stepping into a store management role entails not just overseeing day-to-day operations but also embodying the brand’s philosophy and contributing to its success. A store manager’s responsibilities are multifaceted, often including staff hiring and training, sales strategy implementation, inventory control, and ensuring a positive shopping experience for customers. A successful candidate typically displays a blend of strong leadership qualities, financial acumen, and the ability to adapt to fast-changing retail trends. It’s vital for applicants to demonstrate not only their experience and competency in these areas but also their vision for how they can propel the store forward within the larger framework of the company’s goals.

3. Store Management Interview Questions

1. Can you describe your previous experience in retail management? (Experience & Background)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to outline your work history clearly, emphasizing experiences that are relevant to the store management position. Include the type of retail environments you have worked in, your roles, the responsibilities you had, and achievements that showcase your skills.

Example Answer:
Certainly, over the past 10 years, I have gained extensive experience in retail management through various roles. I started as a sales associate at Company X, where I learned the fundamentals of customer service and sales. After two years, I was promoted to department manager, overseeing a team of 15 employees. In this role, I was responsible for inventory management, employee scheduling, and achieving sales targets.

I then moved to Company Y, a larger retail chain, as an assistant store manager. There, I was directly involved in strategic planning, including marketing initiatives and seasonal promotions. My key contributions included a 20% increase in store traffic through targeted local advertising campaigns.

Most recently, I served as a store manager at Company Z, where I managed a team of 30+ employees and was accountable for P&L statements, store operations, and customer satisfaction. Under my leadership, the store consistently met and exceeded sales goals, achieving top performance in our district for two consecutive years.

2. How would you align your management style with our brand’s values? (Brand Alignment & Management Style)

How to Answer:
Demonstrate an understanding of the hiring company’s brand values and discuss how your personal management philosophy and practices are complementary. If possible, give specific examples of how you’ve embodied similar values in past roles.

Example Answer:
The values of your brand, which emphasize customer service excellence, innovation, and community involvement, resonate deeply with my own management style. For instance, I focus on fostering a team environment that values open communication and continuous improvement, which aligns with your commitment to innovation. As a manager, I encourage my team to share ideas on how we can enhance the customer experience, leading to creative solutions and initiatives.

Additionally, I have always believed in giving back to the community, which has included organizing charity events and local partnerships in my previous roles. To align with your brand’s values, I would continue to seek out opportunities for community engagement that also raise brand awareness and foster a positive company image.

3. What strategies would you implement to drive sales in our store? (Sales & Strategy)

How to Answer:
Discuss specific, actionable strategies that are relevant to the store’s context. Relate these strategies to past successes you’ve had in driving sales and increasing profitability.

Example Answer:
To drive sales, I would implement a multi-faceted strategy that includes:

• Product Knowledge and Training: Ensuring that all team members are experts on our products so they can confidently sell and upsell.

• Personalized Customer Experiences: Leveraging CRM tools to provide personalized service and recommendations to repeat customers.

• In-Store Events and Promotions: Regularly scheduling events and promotions to create excitement and draw in new customers.

• Loyalty Programs: Introducing or optimizing a loyalty program to increase repeat business.

• Local Community Engagement: Partnering with local organizations and events for cross-promotion and brand visibility.

In my last position, for example, I increased sales by 15% through the introduction of an in-store personal shopping assistant service, which provided tailored experiences for customers and significantly boosted our average transaction size.

4. How do you handle conflict between staff members? (Conflict Resolution)

How to Answer:
Explain your approach to conflict resolution by demonstrating your communication skills, empathy, and ability to remain neutral while addressing issues. It’s helpful to use an example from your past experience.

Example Answer:
When conflicts arise between staff members, my first step is to listen to each party individually to understand their perspectives without making immediate judgments. I prioritize creating an environment where all employees feel heard and respected. Then, I bring the parties together to discuss the issue, facilitating a constructive dialogue where each person can express their concerns and work towards a mutually agreeable solution.

For example, at my last job, two employees had a disagreement about the division of responsibilities. After speaking with them separately, I mediated a joint meeting where we established clear roles and collaborative goals. This not only resolved the conflict but also improved our team’s overall communication and efficiency.

5. Describe a time when you successfully managed a challenging situation in a retail environment. (Problem-solving & Resilience)

How to Answer:
Share a specific example that demonstrates your problem-solving skills and resilience. Focus on a situation with a clear challenge, your actions to overcome it, and the positive outcome.

Example Answer:
At Company Z, during a particularly busy holiday season, our point-of-sale system crashed, leaving us unable to process transactions. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I immediately implemented a manual tracking system for sales and cash transactions to continue serving customers effectively. I also contacted our IT support team and worked closely with them to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, I maintained clear communication with both staff and customers about the situation, which helped manage expectations and reduce frustration. Within a few hours, the system was back online, and we were able to reconcile the manual records with the digital system. This experience taught me the importance of quick thinking, staying calm under pressure, and clear communication. Despite the challenge, we ended the day with record sales and minimal customer complaints.

6. What is your approach to inventory management? (Inventory Management)

How to Answer:
When answering questions about inventory management, it is important to show that you have a strategic and systematic approach. Discuss the different methods you employ for effective inventory control, such as regular stock audits, the use of technology in tracking inventory levels, and the implementation of a robust inventory management system. You can also talk about how you forecast demand and adjust inventory levels accordingly to avoid both stockouts and excess stock.

Example Answer:
My approach to inventory management involves a mix of technology, periodic audits, and responsive supply chain practices:

• Technology: I use inventory management software to keep accurate records of incoming and outgoing products. This allows for real-time tracking and helps in identifying trends in inventory levels.
• Audits: Regular audits are essential. I schedule monthly physical counts to ensure that the software data matches the actual inventory.
• Supply Chain Coordination: By maintaining good relationships with suppliers, I am able to manage a just-in-time inventory system which reduces carrying costs and diminishes the risk of overstocking.
• Demand Forecasting: I analyze sales data and market trends to predict future demand and adjust inventory levels proactively.
• Loss Prevention: Implementing anti-theft protocols and monitoring for any signs of shrinkage is also part of my inventory management strategy.

7. How do you train and motivate your team to achieve the best customer service? (Team Management & Training)

How to Answer:
Discuss the importance of building a customer-centric culture and the ways you support and encourage your team to provide exceptional service. Mention the kinds of training programs you implement, how you track progress and give feedback, and the incentives or recognition programs you use to motivate your team.

Example Answer:
To ensure the highest level of customer service, I focus on comprehensive training and motivation:

• Training: I provide regular training sessions that include role-playing scenarios, product knowledge, and soft skills development. This ensures that the team is well-equipped to handle a variety of customer interactions.
• Feedback and Coaching: Regular one-on-one meetings help to provide feedback and coaching, making sure each team member knows how they can improve.
• Recognition and Rewards: I believe in recognizing and rewarding employees who go above and beyond. This can be through employee of the month awards, performance bonuses, or simply verbal recognition in team meetings.
• Empowerment: Empowering employees by giving them the autonomy to make decisions can greatly improve customer service and team morale.

8. What methods do you use to forecast sales and labor needs? (Forecasting & Planning)

How to Answer:
You should demonstrate your analytical abilities and understanding of market trends when discussing sales and labor forecasting. Mention any specific software or tools you use, historical data analysis, market analysis, and how you adjust for seasonal variations or promotional events.

Example Answer:
To forecast sales and labor, I use a combination of historical data analysis, market trends, and predictive analytics software:

• Historical Sales Data: By analyzing past sales data, I can identify patterns and trends which help in forecasting future sales volumes.
• Predictive Analytics: I use software tools that incorporate machine learning algorithms to refine sales predictions based on a wide array of variables.
• Market Analysis: Keeping abreast of market trends and consumer behavior is crucial, so I regularly review industry reports and customer feedback.
• Seasonal Adjustments: I make adjustments for seasonality and upcoming promotions or events which might affect sales and labor requirements.

9. How do you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in the store? (Compliance & Safety)

How to Answer:
Emphasize your commitment to creating a safe working environment for employees and a safe shopping experience for customers. Explain the steps you take to stay updated on health and safety regulations and how you implement and monitor compliance measures within your store.

Example Answer:
Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations is a top priority for me:

• Regular Training: I provide regular training for all staff on safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Updates on Legislation: I stay informed about the latest health and safety legislation and ensure any changes are quickly implemented in the store.
• Safety Audits: Regular safety audits are conducted to identify and correct potential hazards.
• Documentation: All incidents and drills are thoroughly documented, and compliance reports are maintained as per regulatory requirements.

Safety Compliance Checklist:

Task	Frequency	Last Completed	Notes
Fire Drill	Quarterly	Jan 15, 2023	All staff participated
Safety Training Session	Biannually	Feb 10, 2023	Updated first aid procedures
Equipment Inspection	Monthly	Mar 5, 2023	Replaced faulty power strip
Review of Regulations	Annually	Dec 1, 2022	No major changes noted
Documentation Audit	Semiannually	Apr 2, 2023	Records up-to-date

10. How would you deal with a situation where sales targets are not being met? (Performance Improvement)

How to Answer:
In your answer, show that you are proactive and strategic in addressing sales performance issues. Describe the steps you would take to analyze the problem, involve your team in finding solutions, and adapt strategies accordingly. It’s also important to illustrate how you would communicate with upper management and stakeholders regarding performance issues and the measures you’re taking.

Example Answer:
When sales targets are not being met, my approach is systematic and collaborative:

• Root Cause Analysis: First, I analyze sales data to understand the underlying causes—whether it’s an issue with inventory, staffing, marketing, or external factors like economic downturns.
• Team Involvement: I involve the team in brainstorming sessions to generate ideas for improvement, ensuring everyone feels a sense of ownership in the solution.
• Action Plan: I develop an action plan with specific, measurable goals. This may include marketing initiatives, promotions, staff training, or operational changes.
• Regular Monitoring: Sales performance is then closely monitored, with regular check-ins to assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies.
• Communication: Throughout the process, I maintain open communication with upper management, providing updates and adjustments to expectations as necessary.

11. Can you give an example of how you’ve managed shrinkage and loss prevention? (Loss Prevention)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, demonstrate your understanding of what shrinkage is and the common causes. Explain specific strategies that you have implemented to minimize loss through theft, fraud, or error. Focus on your ability to analyze data to identify patterns of loss, your experience with inventory management, and the training you may have provided to staff. Be specific about the outcome of the actions you took.

Example Answer:
Shrinkage is a retail term for the loss of inventory that can be attributed to factors such as employee theft, shoplifting, administrative errors, and supplier fraud. In my previous role, I implemented a comprehensive loss prevention strategy which included the following elements:

• Improved inventory management practices, including regular audits and cycle counts.
• Enhanced security measures like upgrading the surveillance system.
• Employee training focused on recognizing and reporting theft or suspicious activities.

This multi-faceted approach led to a 25% reduction in shrinkage over the course of a year.

12. How do you stay informed about current retail trends and apply them to your store? (Market Awareness)

How to Answer:
This question assesses your initiative to stay updated with the ever-changing retail landscape and your capability to adapt these trends to benefit your store. Discuss the sources you use to gather information, such as trade publications, market research, and social media. Also, share an example of how you have successfully implemented a trend in your store.

Example Answer:
I stay informed about retail trends by:

• Subscribing to industry magazines and newsletters such as ‘Retail Dive’ and ‘National Retail Federation’.
• Attending trade shows and networking with other retail professionals.
• Monitoring social media platforms and customer feedback to understand consumer preferences.

Recently, I noticed an increase in the popularity of eco-friendly products. To capitalize on this trend, I introduced a line of sustainable goods in our store and created a marketing campaign highlighting our commitment to the environment. This resulted in a 20% increase in foot traffic and a notable rise in sales of those products.

13. What is your experience with point-of-sale systems and other retail technologies? (Technology & Systems)

How to Answer:
Discuss your experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems and any other relevant retail technologies, focusing on how you have utilized them to improve store operations. Include any specific systems you are familiar with, and highlight your ability to adapt to new technologies quickly.

Example Answer:
I have extensive experience with various point-of-sale systems, including Square, Vend, and Shopify POS. My experience includes:

• Setting up and customizing POS systems to meet store-specific needs.
• Training staff on how to use the systems effectively.
• Using back-end analytics to track sales patterns and inventory levels.

Moreover, I’m proficient in leveraging retail technologies such as customer relationship management (CRM) tools and inventory management software to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience.

14. How do you approach visual merchandising and store layout to maximize customer engagement? (Visual Merchandising)

How to Answer:
Illustrate your understanding of the importance of visual merchandising and store layout in creating an inviting atmosphere for customers. Share your process for designing floor plans and product placements that both align with your store’s branding and encourage sales.

Example Answer:
My visual merchandising strategy is based on creating an appealing store layout that facilitates customer flow and highlights key products. Here’s how I approach it:

• Customer Pathways: I design clear, open pathways that guide customers through the store, ensuring that they interact with as many product displays as possible.
• Product Grouping: I group related products together to encourage add-on sales.
• Focal Points: I create dynamic focal points using signage and displays to attract customer attention and promote featured items.
• Seasonal Updates: I regularly update the store layout and visual displays to reflect seasonal themes and promotions.

15. Describe how you would build a positive store culture and work environment. (Culture & Environment)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, emphasize the importance of a positive work culture and its impact on employee satisfaction and customer service. Discuss your leadership style, communication skills, and any specific initiatives you have implemented or would implement to foster a positive work environment.

Example Answer:
To build a positive store culture and work environment, I focus on:

• Leadership: I lead by example and strive to be approachable, providing clear expectations and constructive feedback.
• Communication: I prioritize open communication, encouraging team members to share their ideas and concerns.
• Recognition: I regularly acknowledge and reward employees for their hard work and achievements.

In my previous role, I established a ‘Team Member of the Month’ program that recognized outstanding performance, which boosted morale and productivity. Here’s a table illustrating the criteria I used for the program:

Criteria	Description
Customer Service	Exceptional interaction with customers and positive feedback.
Teamwork	Collaboration with peers and support for team goals.
Sales Performance	Meeting or exceeding sales targets.
Initiative	Proactive in identifying and solving problems.
Attendance	Consistent punctuality and reliability.

This program was just one element of a larger strategy to create an environment where employees felt valued and engaged.

16. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks during a typical workday? (Time Management)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, demonstrate your organizational skills and ability to handle responsibilities efficiently. Focus on methods you use to assess urgency and importance, tools or techniques that aid in time management, and examples of prioritization in action.

Example Answer:
I manage my time by starting each day with a clear plan. I typically prioritize tasks based on their urgency and impact on the store’s operations and goals. Here’s my approach:

• Review and update to-do lists: I keep an ongoing list of tasks and review it at the start of the day to add any new items and reprioritize as needed.
• Allocate time slots: I block time on my calendar for high-priority tasks, ensuring I focus on the most critical items without distractions.
• Delegate effectively: I assign tasks to team members based on their strengths and workload, which helps in efficient completion and staff development.
• Use technology: I leverage project management tools and apps to keep track of deadlines, communicate with the team, and monitor progress.

For example, during the holiday season, I prioritize tasks that directly affect customer experience, such as ensuring inventory is stocked and staff is well-trained to handle increased foot traffic.

17. What metrics do you consider most important when assessing store performance? (Performance Metrics)

Metrics are essential in evaluating a store’s performance, providing a quantifiable measure of success and areas needing improvement. Here are some key metrics I consider:

• Sales Revenue: It’s the primary measure of a store’s success, reflecting the effectiveness of sales strategies and customer demand.
• Profit Margins: Understanding the profit made on each item sold helps in assessing financial health.
• Inventory Turnover: This indicates how often inventory is sold and replaced over a given period, showing product demand and stocking efficiency.
• Customer Satisfaction Scores: Feedback on customer experience is vital for retention and loyalty.
• Employee Performance: Staff productivity and sales targets achievement are important for evaluating staff efficiency and training needs.

Here is a table to illustrate these metrics:

Metric	Description	Why It Matters
Sales Revenue	Total income from sales	Measures business growth
Profit Margins	Percentage of profit from sales	Indicates financial health
Inventory Turnover	Frequency of inventory sold and replaced	Shows demand and stocking efficiency
Customer Satisfaction	Customer feedback scores	Reflects customer loyalty and service quality
Employee Performance	Staff productivity and sales metrics	Assesses efficiency and training effectiveness

18. How do you handle customer complaints and feedback? (Customer Service)

How to Answer:
Demonstrate your conflict resolution skills, empathy, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Outline your approach to addressing complaints and your process for utilizing feedback to improve operations.

Example Answer:
When handling customer complaints, I follow a structured approach:

• Listen actively: I give the customer my full attention, ensuring they feel heard and respected.
• Empathize: I acknowledge their feelings and the inconvenience caused, which helps in de-escalating the situation.
• Apologize and offer a solution: I apologize for the issue and offer a solution that aligns with store policies and customer expectations.
• Follow up: I ensure the solution was satisfactory and use the feedback to prevent similar issues in the future.

For example, if a customer complains about a defective product, I would apologize, offer a replacement or refund, and check if there’s a larger quality issue with the product batch.

19. Describe your experience with budget management and cost control in a retail setting. (Budget & Cost Control)

How to Answer:
Discuss your experience with financial stewardship, highlighting specific strategies you’ve used to manage budgets and control costs. Provide examples that showcase your ability to maintain fiscal responsibility.

Example Answer:
In my previous role, I was responsible for managing the store’s budget and controlling costs. I regularly reviewed financial reports to monitor expenses and identify areas where we could optimize spending. Some of my key strategies included:

• Negotiating with suppliers for better rates.
• Implementing energy-saving measures to reduce utility costs.
• Reducing shrinkage through improved inventory management.
• Scheduling staff efficiently to align with customer traffic patterns to control labor costs.

One specific example was renegotiating a contract with a supplier, which resulted in a 10% reduction in costs, contributing to our overall profitability without compromising on quality.

20. How do you ensure that all store operations are aligned with the company’s goals and objectives? (Operations & Strategic Alignment)

How to Answer:
Highlight your strategic thinking and communication skills. Explain how you ensure that the store’s daily operations not only meet but also advance the company’s broader goals.

Example Answer:
To ensure store operations are aligned with the company’s goals, I:

• Understand the company’s vision: I make sure I’m clear on the company’s strategic objectives and how the store fits into the overall mission.
• Communicate goals to the team: I regularly discuss these goals with my team to ensure everyone understands their role in achieving them.
• Set measurable targets: I establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) targets that are directly linked to the company’s objectives.
• Regularly review performance: I monitor store performance against these targets and adjust operations as necessary to stay on track.
• Encourage feedback: I invite suggestions from the team on how we can better align our operations with the company’s goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

For instance, if a company goal is to increase customer loyalty, I would align operations by implementing a customer rewards program and training staff on exceptional customer service practices.

21. What role do you believe technology will play in the future of retail management? (Vision & Technology Trends)

How to Answer:
When discussing the role of technology in the future of retail management, think about recent advancements and how they have already begun to transform the retail scene. Consider discussing omnichannel strategies, personalized customer experiences, inventory management, and the use of AI and data analytics.

Example Answer:
Technology is already playing a critical role in retail management, and its influence is poised to grow even more in the future. I foresee several key areas where technology will continue to drive innovation:

• Omnichannel Retailing: Shoppers expect a seamless experience across online and offline channels. Technology will keep evolving to integrate these platforms, allowing for better inventory management and a cohesive brand experience.
• Customer Personalization: Through data analytics, retailers can offer more personalized experiences to their customers. This includes product recommendations, tailored marketing campaigns, and even personalized pricing.
• AI and Machine Learning: These technologies can predict shopping trends, optimize pricing, and manage supply chains more efficiently. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can also enhance customer service.
• Augmented Reality (AR): AR can provide customers with virtual try-ons and in-store navigation, enriching the shopping experience and aiding in decision-making.
• Sustainability: With increasing consumer consciousness about the environment, technology will be pivotal in managing resources efficiently, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable practices.

22. Can you discuss your experience with employee scheduling and labor law compliance? (Scheduling & Legal Compliance)

How to Answer:
Explain your experience with scheduling by detailing the tools or systems you’ve used and the factors you consider when creating a schedule. For labor law compliance, discuss any relevant training or experiences you have had, like dealing with overtime, breaks, or age restrictions.

Example Answer:
In my previous roles, I’ve utilized scheduling software such as Deputy and When I Work to create efficient and fair schedules for my team. I always take into account peak business hours, employee availability, and skills to ensure coverage and productivity. Regarding labor law compliance, I’ve attended workshops on employment standards and regularly consult updated resources to stay informed. I’ve handled issues related to minimum wage requirements, mandatory breaks, overtime policies, and underage employment, ensuring that our store operates within legal guidelines.

23. How do you foster teamwork and collaboration among your staff? (Teamwork & Collaboration)

How to Answer:
Illustrate your leadership style and the strategies you employ to encourage a collaborative environment. Highlight specific examples or activities that have proven to be effective in past experiences.

Example Answer:
To foster teamwork, I prioritize clear communication and setting common goals. Here are some approaches I take:

• Regular Team Meetings: These keep everyone aligned on objectives and allow team members to voice ideas and concerns.
• Cross-Training: Allowing employees to learn different roles fosters empathy and appreciation for each other’s work.
• Team Building Activities: Whether it’s a monthly dinner or team challenges, these activities help build rapport and trust.
• Reward Systems: Recognizing and rewarding collaborative efforts reinforces the value of teamwork.

24. Explain how you have used data and analytics to make informed decisions in store management. (Data & Analytics)

How to Answer:
Discuss the types of data you analyze and the tools you use. Explain how you’ve interpreted this data to make decisions that impacted sales, inventory management, customer satisfaction, or staff performance.

Example Answer:
In my past role, I regularly used data from our POS system and inventory management software to make informed decisions. Here’s a table illustrating key metrics I’ve used and the outcomes:

Metric	Decision Made	Outcome
Sales Trends	Adjusting product orders and promotions	Increased profitability
Inventory Turnover	Streamlining stock levels	Reduced overstock and stockouts
Customer Feedback	Training staff on areas needing improvement	Improved customer satisfaction
Employee Performance	Tailoring coaching and incentives	Enhanced staff productivity

25. What do you think is the most important factor in creating a successful customer loyalty program? (Customer Loyalty & Engagement)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, focus on key components of customer loyalty programs you consider most critical based on your experience. This could range from personalized rewards to simplicity of use.

Example Answer:
The most important factor in creating a successful customer loyalty program is personalization. Customers want to feel that the program is tailored to their preferences and shopping habits. Here are some key elements to consider:

• Relevant Rewards: Offer rewards that are attractive and attainable to your customer base.
• Simplicity: A loyalty program should be easy to understand and use.
• Engagement: Regular communication about new rewards, point balances, and promotions keeps customers engaged.
• Feedback: Encourage customer feedback on the program and adapt based on their input.

A well-crafted customer loyalty program that feels personal to the shopper encourages repeated business and increases overall customer lifetime value.

4. Tips for Preparation

To prepare for a store management interview, start by researching the company’s history, culture, and values. Understanding these can help you align your responses with what the company is looking for. Brush up on your technical knowledge in retail management, including inventory systems, sales forecasting, and POS technology, as these are likely to be discussion points.

Ensure you have concrete examples of your leadership experience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to drive sales. Practicing your responses to common interview questions can make you more confident and articulate during the interview.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, present yourself professionally and be prepared to discuss your experience and management style in detail. Pay attention to your body language and be enthusiastic about the role and company. Avoid speaking negatively about previous employers or glossing over past challenges.

After the interview, ask thoughtful questions about the company’s strategies, challenges, and expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest and engagement. Send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the role.

Finally, be patient while waiting for feedback, but if you haven’t heard back within the timeframe provided, it’s acceptable to send a polite follow-up email to inquire about the status of your application.