If you’re applying for a job at Target—especially in-store roles like General Merchandise, Specialty Sales, or Guest Services—you’ll likely face a virtual HireVue interview as part of the process. Unlike traditional interviews, these are pre-recorded. You’ll respond to a set list of questions on video, without an interviewer present.
The good news? The questions are consistent across roles and predictable. In this guide, we’ll break down real Target video interview questions, show you what the company is looking for, and help you craft answers that stand out.
How Target’s video interview works
Target uses HireVue, a popular one-way video interview platform. Once invited, here’s what to expect:
- Six structured interview questions
- One multiple-choice compliance question
- Up to two chances to re-record each answer
- 30-minute total time commitment
- Deadline to submit within a few days
You can complete the interview on your phone, tablet, or computer. You’ll also have access to a practice question to test your setup and calm your nerves.
What is Target screening for?
Target isn’t just checking for experience—they’re screening for:
- Customer service mindset
- Adaptability and teamwork
- Cultural fit and enthusiasm
- Communication skills
- Ability to work flexible hours
The questions are behavioral. That means they want real-life examples, even if you’re just starting your career. A part-time job, volunteer experience, or school project is fair game.
The exact Target video interview questions—and how to answer them
These six questions have appeared consistently across 2023 and 2024 interviews. Let’s go through them one by one.
1. Why are you interested in this position, and how does your experience align?
What they’re really asking:
Do you understand Target’s values and how you’d fit in?
Pro tip:
Don’t just say “I like shopping at Target.” Talk about how your personality, past roles, or ambitions align with Target’s service culture.
Sample angle:
“I’ve worked in customer-facing roles where I had to balance efficiency with warmth. I know Target values fast, friendly service, and that’s something I genuinely enjoy delivering.”
2. Describe a time something didn’t go as planned. What did you do?
What they’re really asking:
Can you stay calm, learn from mistakes, and adapt?
Pro tip:
Pick a moment where things went wrong, but you took action and improved.
Sample angle:
“At a sales event I planned, turnout was low. I realized we hadn’t reached the right audience. I proposed new social media tactics for the next one, and attendance jumped 30%. It taught me to use data and feedback quickly.”
3. Tell us about a time you worked with someone to reach a goal
What they’re really asking:
How do you collaborate under pressure?
Pro tip:
Stick to a specific moment. Vague teamwork stories won’t cut it.
Sample angle:
“Our store wasn’t hitting sales goals, so my coworker and I came up with a plan to upsell bundled items. I handled customer engagement; they handled merchandising. We exceeded the target by 15% that month.”
4. How do you work with people who have different perspectives?
What they’re really asking:
Are you open-minded, respectful, and inclusive?
Pro tip:
This is about emotional intelligence. Show that you listen and adapt.
Sample angle:
“One coworker and I had very different work styles. Instead of pushing my approach, I asked why she preferred hers. We combined ideas and finished our project early. It reminded me that collaboration works better than competition.”
5. Imagine you’re on the sales floor and a guest looks like they need help. What do you do?
What they’re really asking:
Can you read cues and deliver great service without being pushy?
Pro tip:
Target wants proactive, warm, low-pressure service.
Sample angle:
“I’d observe first, then approach with, ‘Hi, can I help you find anything?’ If they say yes, I’d walk them to the item, not just point. And before I leave, I’d ask if they need anything else.”
6. Can you perform all the essential functions of this role?
What they’re really asking:
Can you lift, move, climb ladders, and work nights/weekends?
Pro tip:
Be honest. If you can meet the physical and scheduling demands, say so.
Sample answer:
“Yes, I’m comfortable lifting up to 40 pounds, working flexible hours, and performing the duties outlined in the job description.”
Bonus tips to succeed in your Target HireVue interview
Even if the questions change, here are some tips to be successful.
Review the job description
Tailor your answers using keywords and skills from the posting.
Stick to the STAR method
That’s Situation, Task, Action, Result. It keeps answers tight and focused.
Practice with a timer and webcam
You don’t want your first take to be the one you regret.
Be yourself and not just a polished version
Target isn’t looking for a corporate robot. Speak clearly, smile, and show some personality.
Target wants real people, not perfect ones
The secret to answering Target video interview questions isn’t having the perfect script. It’s understanding what the company values—guest service, collaboration, adaptability—and showing how you already embody those things in real life.
Whether you’re a student, a career changer, or someone re-entering the workforce, you don’t need decades of experience. You just need thoughtful stories and a bit of prep.
Good luck, you’ve got this!
