Merchandiser

If you are looking for a role as Merchandiser. Here we have listed all the most asked Interview questions on Merchandising, which can help you to ace the job interview.

Q.1 Which aspect of business is affected the most by implementing JIT?
The aspect of Inventory is most affected by implementing JIT.
Q.2 What is the essential qualities of merchandiser?
Here are some essential qualities of Merchandiser
1. enthusiasm
2. creativity
3. imagination
Q.3 What is the purpose of visual merchandising?
The purpose is to educate the customer about the product.
Q.4 Which effect makes element look closer to the observer?
Overlap effect makes element look closer to the observer.
Q.5 What color is added to produce tints?
White color is added to produce tints
Q.6 How do you deal with situations when the customer is not happy?
The merchandiser is often the first person to interact with a customer when they have a complaint. The merchandiser must be able to listen to the customer and understand their concerns. They must also be able to relay this information to the company in a timely manner.

Sample Answer: I have had to deal with customers who were not happy with the product. I was able to listen and understand their concerns. I relayed this information to my supervisor and we were able to resolve the issue.
Q.7 Why did you choose merchandising as your profession?
Merchandising is one of the Top rated prestigious job in the current world. I have a dream. I love to work with fashion industry from my early life because someone can get vast knowledge regarding human fashion trend, culture, fashion cycle etc. through merchandising. Thus, I have keen interest to be a fashion merchandiser.
Q.8 What is Basic Block?
Basic block is an individual component of apparel without any allowance, design or style which is called basic block.
Q.9 What is Approved Sample?
When a sample fulfill all the terms and conditions according to the buyer requirement then that sample is known as approved sample.
Q.10 What is Air way will?
Air Way Will is known as an export document. The agreement between exporter and air carrier which is found from the airline used to ship the goods.
Q.11 What is Buying Office?
Buying office is an independent or store owned office which is situated at a market area and buys for many stores. Buying office is also well-known as buying house.
Q.12 What is Purchase Order (po)?
PO is a document of a general information of the types and quantities of merchandise that a buyer or importer expect to purchase for delivery within a lead time. It is also known as buying plan.
Q.13 What is Bill of Loading?
Bill of loading is a document which gives all the terms of the contract between the exporter or shipper and the transportation or logistic company.
Q.14 What is CAD?
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design which is used as a theoretical tool to design and develop of garment products.
Q.15 What is Lead Time?
From the date of submission an order to the delivery date this period is known as lead time.
Q.16 What is Line Balancing?
Line balancing is a plan of balancing the production schedule as per the time and action calendar (TNA).
Q.17 What is Offshore Assembly?
Offshore assembly is known as purchase the fabric and cut it but gives it to the other country for sewing.
Q.18 What is Up-charge?
Up-charge is an additional cost which will get added into cost of production as per the buyer’s instructions.
Q.19 What is Vessel-sailing-time?
Vessel-sailing-time is known as the time which will get taken by ship or transportation to ship the products.
Q.20 What is Cpm?
CPM stands for Cost per Minute. CPM can help to find out per hour, shift, day and week cost of garments.
Q.21 What is C.I.F?
C.I.F stands for Cost Freight and Insurance. It is a pricing term according to which the seller pays all operating cost in the placing of products on board and prepays the freight and insures the goods to an agreed destination.
Q.22 What is Down-charge?
Down-charge is a smaller amount cost because of fewer changes into finished product.
Q.23 What is Factory out Late Stores?
Factory out late stores is one kind of store which sells the manufacturer overrun directly to consumers.
Q.24 What is F.C.l?
F.C.L stands for the full container load. This is the excellent sign for business dealings of both buyer and manufacturer.
Q.25 What is L.C.L?
L.C.L is means Less Container Load. When short amount of order execution then less container load for export or import from manufacturer.
Q.26 What is Mark Down?
Mark down is known as the difference between the original retail price and a reduced price.
Q.27 What is Mark-up?
Mark-up is the difference between the original retail price and a raised price. It means the difference between manufacturing or cost price and selling price.
Q.28 What qualities make a good buyer?
1. Be likable and approachable. 2. Be polite and courteous. 3. Stay in constant touch and reply to phone calls and emails promptly. 4. Respect the seller and don't waste their time.
Q.29 According to you, what is the key aspect of successful merchandising?
This is clearly a subjective question so there is no right or wrong answer to it and it depends from one person to another. What is more important is that you justify the response that you give. Sample Answer - According to me, it is the appearance of the product which is considered the most important part of merchandising, followed by other aspects such as product placement or the product's location relative to different products. You are required to show a creative approach and as a merchandiser you must acknowledge that merchandising different types of products requires different approaches
Q.30 What are the rights and duties of a buyer?

1). Right to have delivery of goods

2). Right to Reject

3). Right to Cancel

4). Right to claim damages

5). Right to Examine

6). Right to sue for performance

7). Right to take insurance

8). Right to sue for recovery of price

Q.31 Which aspect of a product forces you to buy it?
The interviewer here wants to get hold of your take on merchandising, it deals more with your personality and your knowledge of merchandising. You are required to choose a point about a product and say why it is crucial for you and appealing to a customer lets suppose according to you colour is important aspect since a consumer can associate a colour both with their identity and with a specific brand.
Q.32 Explain the Right to Reject?
It is the right of the buyer to reject the goods if it is found that the seller has delivered him the goods of other quantity or quality or if the buyer notices any defects in the goods.
Q.33 What is your understanding of merchandising?
You must ensure that you have done your research thoroughly. You must describe Merchandising as a whole across different industries, and you should be able to explain the differences. Give proper distinction between head office merchandising and in-store (visual) merchandising. You must try and come up with solid reasons why a particular sector interests you, and specifically why you would be passionate about working within this market.
Q.34 Explain the Right to Cancel?
It is a right of the buyer to cancel the contract if the seller does not perform his part in the specific time or otherwise if the seller commits any negligence as to the performance of a contract in that situation it is the right of the buyer to cancel the contract.
Q.35 What kind of customer experience do you have?
It is very crucial to know your CV inside out, and share your experience without referring to it during the interview. Do not just assume that only work experience is relevant. You can think through examples of achievements, extra-curricular activities or university projects as well as work experience which has given you transferable customer facing experience. For instance you could talk about working on your freshers’ fair, if you are a fresher.
Q.36 What is the Right to claim damages?
If there is any defect in the Goods which may cause loss to the buyer or if due to the negligence of a seller. The buyer sustains a loss, in such circumstance, it is the right of the buyer to be compensated or the buyer may claim damages.
Q.37 What are the suggested changes that you would want to make to our store?
In order to answer this question, you must ensure that you have researched the business thoroughly. Answer the question with a lot of passion for them during interview to show them that you really mean it and are keen to work for them. So you must have a in-depth knowledge of what they do as a company, products/services they offer, competitors and current projects etc.
Q.38 State the Right to Examine?
It is the right of the buyer to examine the goods before its purchase and to duly satisfy himself as to be quality of goods.
Q.39 What is the Right to sue for performance?
If the seller deny to obey the terms and conditions of the contract which gives irreparable loss to the buyer, the buyer has the right to knock or approach the competent court of law to compel the seller for specific performance.
Q.40 State the Right to take insurance?
It is the duty of the seller to give notice to the buyer to be ensured the goods if the seller delivers in a good way whether sea or by any other method/means due to which alarm that the goods may be destroyed then it is the right of the buyer to ensure the goods before its delivery.
Q.41 What is the Right to sue for recovery of price?
It is the right of the buyer to file a suit for recovery of the price which he has already paid to the seller but even then, the seller refuses to perform his part.
Q.42 Explain the Right to claim interest?
It is the right of the buyer to claim an interest in the situation if the delay is caused by the seller in the delivery of goods.
Q.43 What is the market report?
Market report is defined as the report of the prices paid for specific commodities or securities upon a particular day or during a certain period of time.
Q.44 What does a visual merchandiser do?
Visual merchandisers use their design skills to help promote the image, products and services of retail businesses and other organisations.
Q.45 What are the 4 elements of visual merchandising?

1. Store exterior.

2. Store layout.

3. Store interior.

4. Interior display.

Q.46 What are the Principles of Design?
The fundamental principles of design are Emphasis, Balance and Alignment, Contrast, Repetition, Proportion, Movement and White Space.
Q.47 What is Color Theory?
Color theory is both the science and art of using color. It shows how humans perceive color and the visual effects of how colors mix, match or contrast with each other.
Q.48 What are the 7 color schemes?
The seven major color schemes are monochromatic, analogous, complementary, split complementary, triadic, square, and rectangle.
Q.49 What are the different types of retail outlets?

1. Department Stores

. 2. Specialty Stores.

3. Supermarkets.

4. Convenience Stores.

5. Discount Stores.

6. Hypermarkets or Super Stores.

Q.50 What is the Black Box Model?
A black box model, is a catch-all term used to describe a computer program designed to transform various data into useful investment strategies.
Q.51 Who has given the black box model?
A black box was described by Norbert Wiener in 1961
Q.52 What is Category Management?
Category management is defined as a retailing and purchasing concept in which the range of products purchased by a business organization or sold by a retailer is broken down into different groups of similar or related products.
Q.53 What are the 4 P's of category management?
The 4 P's of Category Management: Product, Placement, Price & Promo.
Q.54 What the benefits of Benefits of Mass Marketing?

1. More potential customers.

2. Higher economies of scale.

3. High sales.

4. Less prone to changing tastes.

5. Save on marketing costs.

Q.55 Define Market Segmentation?
Market segmentation is a marketing term referring to aggregating prospective buyers into groups or segments with common needs and who respond similarly to a marketing action.
Q.56 What are the four types of market segmentation?
Demographic, psychographic, behavioral and geographic segmentation are considered the four main types of market segmentation.
Q.57 What is Supply Chain Management (SCM)?
Supply chain management (SCM) is the centralized management of the flow of goods and services and includes all processes that transform raw materials into final products.
Q.58 What do you mean by System of Vendor Evaluation?
Vendor evaluation is a system for recording and ranking the performance of a supplier in terms of a variety of issues.
Q.59 What do you know about Social Audit?
A social audit is a way of measuring, understanding, reporting and ultimately improving an organization's social and ethical performance.
Q.60 What are three forms of exporting?
The three forms of exporting are indirect exporting, direct exporting, and intracorporate transfer.
Q.61 What experience do you have in merchandising?
I have been working as a merchandiser for 3 years, during which time I have developed a strong understanding of the industry, including market trends and consumer behavior.
Q.62 How do you ensure that the products are displayed effectively?
I ensure that the products are displayed effectively by arranging them in a way that is visually appealing and eye-catching. I also pay close attention to lighting and ensure that the products are organized in a way that makes them easy for customers to find.
Q.63 Can you describe your approach to managing inventory?
My approach to managing inventory involves conducting regular audits, analyzing sales data, and ordering products as needed to ensure that we have sufficient stock levels to meet customer demand.
Q.64 How do you stay current on industry trends?
I stay current on industry trends by regularly attending trade shows, reading industry publications, and networking with other merchandisers.
Q.65 How do you ensure that the merchandise is priced appropriately?
I ensure that the merchandise is priced appropriately by conducting market research and analyzing our competition. I also take into consideration the cost of the product and our profit margins.
Q.66 How do you work with cross-functional teams such as marketing and operations?
I work closely with cross-functional teams such as marketing and operations by collaborating on promotional campaigns, ensuring that products are effectively merchandised, and ensuring that we have sufficient inventory levels to support sales.
Q.67 How do you handle difficult customers?
I handle difficult customers by remaining calm and professional, actively listening to their concerns, and offering solutions that meet their needs.
Q.68 How do you measure the success of a merchandising campaign?
I measure the success of a merchandising campaign by analyzing sales data before and after the campaign, monitoring customer feedback, and assessing how well the campaign aligned with our overall business objectives.
Q.69 Can you describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision related to merchandising?
One time, we had an excess of inventory on a particular product that wasn't selling well. I had to make the difficult decision to discount the product in order to move the inventory and prevent a loss for the company.
Q.70 What do you consider to be the most important aspect of merchandising?
I consider customer satisfaction to be the most important aspect of merchandising. It's important to ensure that products are merchandised effectively, priced appropriately, and in stock to meet customer demand. Ultimately, if customers are satisfied, then the business will be successful.
Q.71 How do you prioritize which products to showcase in-store or online?
I prioritize which products to showcase by analyzing sales data and customer behavior, and identifying which products are in demand. I also consider seasonality and trends in the industry.
Q.72 How do you manage and maintain relationships with suppliers?
I manage and maintain relationships with suppliers by communicating regularly and transparently, negotiating prices and terms, and ensuring that their products are merchandised effectively. I also work to establish a strong rapport with them to foster a long-term partnership.
Q.73 How do you ensure that products are merchandised ethically and sustainably?
I ensure that products are merchandised ethically and sustainably by researching suppliers' practices and ensuring that they align with our company's values. I also consider the environmental impact of the products and their packaging and make an effort to source products from sustainable and ethical suppliers.
Q.74 Can you give an example of a time when you successfully increased sales through effective merchandising?
One time, we increased sales of a particular product by creating an eye-catching display at the front of the store and highlighting its unique features. By placing it in a prominent location and offering a special promotion, we were able to draw customers' attention to the product and increase sales.
Q.75 How do you stay organized and manage multiple tasks at once?
I stay organized by creating a prioritized task list and setting deadlines for each task. I also use project management software to keep track of progress and communicate with cross-functional teams. I regularly evaluate my workload and adjust my priorities as needed to ensure that I am meeting deadlines and accomplishing my goals.
Q.76 How do you collaborate with the design team to create new product lines?
I collaborate with the design team by providing market insights and customer feedback to inform their designs. I also work with them to ensure that the product lines are merchandised effectively in stores and online.
Q.77 How do you measure the effectiveness of in-store displays and visual merchandising?
I measure the effectiveness of in-store displays and visual merchandising by analyzing sales data before and after the display, monitoring customer feedback, and assessing how well the display aligned with our overall business objectives.
Q.78 How do you ensure that products are properly packaged and labeled?
I ensure that products are properly packaged and labeled by working closely with the operations team and suppliers to establish clear labeling and packaging guidelines. I also conduct regular audits to ensure that products are being packaged and labeled correctly.
Q.79 Can you describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a supplier or vendor?
One time, a supplier delivered a shipment of products that did not meet our quality standards. I had to work with the supplier to resolve the issue and negotiate a refund or replacement for the products. Through open communication and collaboration, we were able to come to a resolution that satisfied both parties.
Q.80 How do you manage and maintain product inventory levels?
I manage and maintain product inventory levels by conducting regular inventory audits, analyzing sales data, and forecasting demand. I also work closely with the operations team to ensure that products are ordered and received on time.
Q.81 How do you ensure that products are priced competitively?
I ensure that products are priced competitively by conducting market research and analyzing our competition. I also take into consideration the cost of the product and our profit margins.
Q.82 Can you give an example of a time when you successfully launched a new product line?
One time, we successfully launched a new product line by conducting extensive market research and customer feedback surveys. We also created eye-catching displays in-store and online and offered special promotions to entice customers to try the new products.
Q.83 How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends in your industry?
I stay up-to-date with the latest trends in my industry by attending trade shows, reading industry publications, and networking with other merchandisers. I also regularly research and monitor online trends and social media influencers.
Q.84 How do you analyze and interpret sales data to make informed business decisions?
I analyze and interpret sales data by using software tools and spreadsheets to visualize trends and patterns. I also work closely with the finance team to analyze profit margins and make data-driven decisions that align with our business goals.
Q.85 How do you prioritize your tasks and manage your workload?
I prioritize my tasks by creating a to-do list and setting realistic deadlines for each task. I also communicate regularly with cross-functional teams to ensure that we are all aligned and working towards the same goals. I regularly evaluate my workload and adjust my priorities as needed to ensure that I am meeting deadlines and accomplishing my goals.
Q.86 Case: Your company has recently expanded to a new market and wants to introduce a new product line. How would you approach this opportunity?
First, I would conduct market research to understand the demand for the new product line in the new market. I would also analyze the competition and consider how our product line could differentiate itself. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy for merchandising the new product line, including in-store displays and online marketing. I would work with the operations team to ensure that we have enough inventory to meet demand, and I would also develop a pricing strategy that is competitive and aligned with our profit margins.
Q.87 Case: Your company has experienced a decline in sales for a particular product line. What steps would you take to turn the situation around?
First, I would conduct an analysis of sales data to understand the root cause of the decline. I would also gather customer feedback to understand why they are no longer interested in the product line. Based on this analysis, I would work with the design team to identify opportunities to refresh the product line and make it more appealing to customers. I would also develop a marketing campaign that highlights the unique features and benefits of the product line. Additionally, I would consider offering promotions or discounts to entice customers to give the product line another try.
Q.88 Case: Your company has identified a new supplier that offers lower prices than your current suppliers. How would you evaluate the potential benefits and risks of switching to this new supplier?
Before making a decision to switch suppliers, I would conduct due diligence to ensure that the new supplier is reliable and offers quality products. I would also consider the potential risks of switching, such as disruptions to our supply chain or quality issues with the new products. Additionally, I would consider the impact on our existing suppliers and the relationships we have built with them. If I determine that the potential benefits outweigh the risks, I would work with the operations team to make the switch and develop a plan for transitioning to the new supplier.
Q.89 Case: Your company wants to reduce its carbon footprint and become more sustainable. How would you incorporate sustainability into your merchandising strategy?
I would start by conducting an analysis of our current supply chain and identifying areas where we can reduce waste and improve sustainability. This might include working with suppliers to use more eco-friendly materials or reducing packaging waste. I would also consider how we can promote sustainability in our marketing and merchandising efforts, such as highlighting products that are sustainably produced or offering recycling programs. Finally, I would consider how we can educate customers about our sustainability efforts and encourage them to make more sustainable choices.
Q.90 Case: Your company is planning to launch a new product line that is targeted towards a younger demographic. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with this audience?
To develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with a younger demographic, I would conduct research on their preferences and behaviors. This might include analyzing social media trends or conducting focus groups to gather feedback. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates elements that are popular with this demographic, such as interactive displays, social media marketing, and influencer partnerships. I would also consider how we can use technology to create a seamless shopping experience that appeals to this audience.
Q.91 Case: Your company has identified an opportunity to expand into a new market with a unique set of cultural norms and customs. How would you modify your merchandising strategy to adapt to this market?
To modify our merchandising strategy to adapt to a new market with unique cultural norms and customs, I would conduct extensive research on the market and its customs.
Q.92 Case: Your company is planning to launch a new line of products in collaboration with a celebrity. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that leverages the celebrity's brand and appeal?
To develop a merchandising strategy that leverages the celebrity's brand and appeal, I would start by analyzing their existing brand and the appeal that they have to our target audience. Based on this analysis, I would develop a strategy that highlights the unique features and benefits of the products while also aligning with the celebrity's brand. I would also consider how we can use the celebrity's social media platforms and other promotional channels to reach a wider audience and build buzz around the product line.
Q.93 Case: Your company has identified an opportunity to expand into a new market with a different language and cultural norms. How would you modify your merchandising strategy to adapt to this market?
To modify our merchandising strategy to adapt to a new market with a different language and cultural norms, I would first conduct research on the market to understand the cultural norms and preferences. I would also consider how language differences might impact our merchandising efforts, such as the need to translate packaging and marketing materials. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates elements that are popular with this market, such as in-store displays and marketing materials that resonate with the local culture.
Q.94 Case: Your company is planning to launch a new product line that is targeted towards an older demographic. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with this audience?
To develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with an older demographic, I would conduct research on their preferences and behaviors. This might include analyzing demographic data or conducting focus groups to gather feedback. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates elements that are popular with this demographic, such as clear and easy-to-read packaging and marketing materials, in-store displays that are easy to navigate, and promotions that emphasize the value and quality of the product line.
Q.95 Case: Your company has experienced a decline in foot traffic in its brick-and-mortar stores. How would you develop a merchandising strategy to increase foot traffic and sales?
To develop a merchandising strategy that increases foot traffic and sales in brick-and-mortar stores, I would conduct research on customer behavior and preferences, such as what types of displays and promotions they respond to. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates eye-catching displays, promotions that entice customers to come in-store, and an overall shopping experience that is seamless and enjoyable. I would also consider how we can use technology, such as mobile apps or in-store kiosks, to enhance the shopping experience and encourage customers to come back.
Q.96 Case: Your company is launching a new product line that is eco-friendly and sustainable. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that emphasizes the product's sustainability and appeals to environmentally conscious customers?
To develop a merchandising strategy that emphasizes the sustainability of our new product line, I would first conduct research on customer behavior and preferences related to eco-friendly and sustainable products. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates eco-friendly materials in our packaging and in-store displays, and highlights the sustainable features of the product line. I would also consider how we can use social media and other digital channels to communicate the product's eco-friendliness and appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
Q.97 Case: Your company is launching a new product line that is targeted towards a younger demographic. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that appeals to this audience?
To develop a merchandising strategy that appeals to a younger demographic, I would first conduct research on their preferences and behaviors. This might include analyzing social media trends and conducting focus groups to gather feedback. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates eye-catching displays and marketing materials that resonate with this audience, such as social media influencers and pop-up shops. I would also consider how we can use technology, such as augmented reality or mobile apps, to enhance the shopping experience and create a sense of excitement around the product line.
Q.98 Case: Your company is expanding into the e-commerce space. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that optimizes the online shopping experience for customers?
To develop a merchandising strategy that optimizes the online shopping experience for customers, I would first conduct research on the preferences and behaviors of online shoppers. This might include analyzing data on customer browsing and purchase behavior, and conducting user experience testing. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates clear and concise product descriptions, eye-catching product images, and an easy-to-navigate website. I would also consider how we can use technology, such as machine learning algorithms, to personalize the shopping experience for each customer.
Q.99 Case: Your company is launching a new product line that is intended to compete with a well-established competitor. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that differentiates our product line from the competitor's?
To develop a merchandising strategy that differentiates our product line from a well-established competitor, I would first conduct research on the competitor's strengths and weaknesses. This might include analyzing their product offerings, pricing strategy, and customer reviews. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that highlights the unique features and benefits of our product line, and emphasizes areas where we have an advantage over the competitor. I would also consider how we can use social media and other promotional channels to create a sense of excitement and build buzz around the product line.
Q.100 Case: Your company is launching a new product line that is intended to appeal to a global audience. How would you develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with customers from different cultural backgrounds?
To develop a merchandising strategy that resonates with a global audience, I would first conduct research on the cultural norms and preferences of the target markets. This might include analyzing demographic data, conducting focus groups, and working with local partners or experts. Based on this research, I would develop a strategy that incorporates elements that are popular with the target markets, such as packaging and marketing materials that resonate with local cultures, and in-store displays that are tailored to local preferences. I would also consider how we can use social media and other digital channels to reach a wider audience and create a sense of community around the product line.
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