Preparing for a job at Hobby Lobby? One of the best ways to get ready is by reviewing common Hobby Lobby interview questions. Employers often ask about your customer service skills, flexibility, and knowledge of the company. In this guide, you’ll find the most likely questions along with sample answers and tips to help you make a great impression.
Hobby Lobby Interviews: By the Numbers
📝 Top Questions Asked
- Work experience and previous job responsibilities
- Customer service scenarios (handling upset customers)
- Knowledge of Hobby Lobby products and crafts
- Company values and faith-based culture
- Math questions (percentages, sales tax, basic arithmetic)
📉 Interview Difficulty
- Most applicants rate the interview as Easy to Medium. Roughly 70% found it straightforward, focusing on past experience and customer service skills, while 30% noted the math portion made it slightly more challenging.
👕 Interview Attire
- About 80% of applicants wore business casual, including collared shirts, blouses, or dress pants. A smaller portion reported casual dress was acceptable, but neat and professional clothing is safest.
✅ Top Tips
- Arrive on time.
- Learn about Hobby Lobby’s values and Christian-based culture.
- Review basic math (percentages, discounts, sales tax).
- Visit a store beforehand to become familiar with their products.
Watch: Hobby Lobby Interview Questions & Tips (Quick Guide)
This quick video highlights common Hobby Lobby interview questions and simple tips on how to answer them. It’s a great way to get prepared in just a minute before your interview.
Hobby Lobby Interview – Real Applicant Experience
These interview stories are based on real-life experiences of applicants. They highlight the questions asked, dress codes, and tips that can help you feel more prepared for your own Hobby Lobby Interview.
Applicant 1
- Job Position: Retail Associate
- Location: Not specified
- Source: Applicant interview (over 5 years ago)
- Dress Code: Business Casual
- Difficulty: Medium
Interview Questions
- What were some of the things you did at a previous job?
- What would your previous employer say about you?
- What would you do if you disagreed with your manager?
- How would you handle an upset customer?
- Math test: three-digit multiplication, addition, subtraction, and sales tax. Example: What is 66% off of $3.49?
Tips
✅ Arrive on time.
✅ Be familiar with Hobby Lobby’s values and history—it is a faith-based company.
✅ Be ready to answer both customer service and math-related questions.
Applicant 2
- Job Position: Cashier
- Location: Texas
- Source: Applicant interview (over 5 years ago)
- Dress Code: Business Casual
- Difficulty: Medium
Interview Questions
- What do you know about Hobby Lobby?
- Math test: addition, multiplication, and sales tax problems. Example: What is 40% off the price of an item?
Tips
✅ The math test must be completed without a phone or calculator.
Applicant 3
- Job Position: Retail Associate
- Location: Not Specified
- Source: Applicant interview (over 5 years ago)
- Dress Code: Casual
- Difficulty: Easy
Interview Questions
- What is your job experience?
- What is your craft experience?
- If hired, how long would you stay?
Tips
✅ Visit a Hobby Lobby store beforehand to get familiar with their products.
Hobby Lobby Interview Questions and Answers Recommended by the Author
⭐ General Questions
1. Why do you want to work at Hobby Lobby?
They want to see if you’re genuinely interested in Hobby Lobby, not just looking for any job. Showing knowledge of the company and enthusiasm for the role makes you stand out.
🗣 Sample Answer
“I’ve always enjoyed arts and crafts, and I know Hobby Lobby is the largest privately owned craft store in the world. I also like the friendly service I get when I shop here. I’d be proud to help customers and be part of the team.”
2. Why should we hire you?
This shows what makes you a good fit for the role and how your skills and attitude will help the team succeed.
🗣 Sample Answer
“I have strong communication skills, I enjoy working with people, and I’m reliable. I’m also passionate about crafts, which will help me connect with customers. Additionally, I am flexible with my schedule and willing to take on various tasks to support the team. I’m eager to learn and contribute to making Hobby Lobby a welcoming and helpful place for everyone who shops here.”
Remember Your Job Interview Questions?
Whether it was recent or a while ago, your experience can help others.
3. What can you tell us about Hobby Lobby?
This question is a quick test. The interviewer wants to see if you’ve done your homework and actually know what Hobby Lobby is about. They’re also checking if you understand the company’s Christian values, which shape policies like closing on Sundays.
🗣 Sample Answer
“Hobby Lobby started in 1972 and has grown into a nationwide arts and crafts retailer. They sell things like fabrics, jewelry-making supplies, home décor, and seasonal items. The company is faith-based, so they close on Sundays to give employees time with family and church. I respect that, and I think their values about community and faith make them stand out.”
4. What motivates you?
Motivated employees bring passion, teamwork, and strong customer service — all qualities Hobby Lobby looks for.
🗣 Sample Answer
“I’m motivated by helping people and making their shopping experience as enjoyable as possible. I enjoy using my skills and knowledge to assist customers in finding exactly what they need. I also feel motivated by working as part of a team where everyone supports each other. Knowing that my efforts make a difference for both customers and coworkers keeps me enthusiastic and focused at work.”
5. How long will you stay if hired?
Hobby Lobby doesn’t want to hire and train someone who will quit after a few weeks. A stable, motivated employee is valuable because it reduces turnover and ensures consistent service for customers.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“I want steady, long-term work where I can grow and contribute. I’m eager to learn new skills, take on responsibilities, and help create a positive experience for customers and coworkers.”
⏰ Availability & Work Conditions
6. What hours can you work?
Retail stores need employees who can cover a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. They want to know how flexible you are and whether your schedule will meet the store’s needs.
🗣 Sample Answer
“I’m flexible and able to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. I understand that retail schedules can change, and I’m happy to adjust so the store always has coverage. I’m also willing to take on extra hours if needed to support the team and provide excellent service to customers.”
7. How do you feel about standing for long periods?
Most retail work involves being on your feet for extended periods. They want to know that you’re physically prepared and can stay positive and productive throughout your shift.
🗣 Sample Answer
“I’m comfortable standing for long periods and staying active while working. I make sure to wear comfortable shoes and maintain good posture to stay energized. I focus on helping customers and staying engaged throughout my shift, so I can provide the best service possible without feeling fatigued.”
🛍️ Customer Service Questions
8. How would you define excellent customer service?
Good customer service is critical in retail. They want employees who can create positive experiences for every customer.
🗣 Sample Answer
“Excellent customer service means greeting every customer with a friendly attitude, listening carefully to their needs, and helping them find the right products. It also includes keeping the store organized and clean, making checkout smooth, and ensuring customers leave happy. I believe providing consistent, helpful service builds trust and encourages customers to return.”
9. How would you deal with an upset customer?
You need to stay calm, understand why the customer is upset, and fix the issue.
🗣 Sample Answer
“If a customer is upset, I would listen to their concerns carefully and show empathy. I wouldn’t blame the customer or get defensive. I would try to resolve the issue myself if possible or seek help from a manager. Remaining calm and professional ensures the customer feels heard and respected, and it helps maintain a positive store environment.”
10. Tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
You will score bonus points with Hobby Lobby if you can provide examples of going above and beyond for a customer, as great customer service means repeat business.
🗣 Sample Answer
“At my last job, a customer wanted an item we didn’t have in stock. I called another location that had it and arranged for it to be held there. The customer thanked me for helping them.”
11. What is your job experience?
All work experience is good experience, but related work experience is better. Having related experience will mean they have to spend less time training you.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“I’ve worked in retail before, assisting customers, restocking shelves, and working the register. I also learned how to stay organized during busy periods and assist multiple customers at once. These experiences taught me the importance of teamwork, patience, and providing excellent service.”
12. What is your craft experience? (Are you able to give advice if a customer needs help?)
Hobby Lobby values employees who are skilled in crafts and can provide expert advice to customers.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“I enjoy crafts like painting, scrapbooking, and jewelry making, so I’m familiar with many of the products. I feel confident helping customers choose the right supplies, offering advice, and suggesting creative ideas for their projects.”
13. What did you learn in your previous job?
They want to see if you reflect on past experiences and apply those lessons to improve your future work.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“At my previous job, I learned the importance of being reliable, working well with a team, and providing consistent customer service. I also learned how to handle busy periods calmly and stay organized. These skills will help me succeed at Hobby Lobby and contribute positively to the team and customer experience.”
🤝 Teamwork & Workplace Behavior
14. What would your previous employer say about your work?
Employers ask this to see if you were dependable, professional, and had a positive reputation at your previous job. They want to know if you are trustworthy, reliable, and a good team player.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“My previous employer would say that I am dependable, friendly, and always willing to help. I consistently showed up on time, completed tasks efficiently, and maintained a positive attitude even during busy periods. I also worked well with my team and took initiative when needed, which helped the store run smoothly and provided a better experience for customers.”
15. What would you do if you disagreed with your manager?
Your manager’s decision is final, so show that you can listen, understand their reasoning, and roll with it, even if you disagree.
🗣 Sample Answer:
“If I disagreed with my manager, I would first listen carefully to understand their reasoning. I would give my ideas and provide suggestions, but ultimately, I would follow their decision. I understand that staying professional and supportive helps maintain a positive work environment.”
Hobby Lobby Interview FAQ
Preparing for a Hobby Lobby interview? Below are answers to some of the most common questions applicants have shared about the process, from what to wear to the types of questions you might face.
Most applicants recommend business casual attire (collared shirt, blouse, or dress pants). Some roles may allow more casual dress, but it’s safer to look neat and professional. Avoid ripped jeans, shorts, or flip-flops.
Applicants describe the interview as easy to medium in difficulty. Questions are mostly straightforward and focus on customer service, work experience, and basic math.
Interview questions often cover:
Work experience and past responsibilities
Customer service skills (e.g., how you’d handle an upset customer)
Craft or product knowledge
Availability and how long you plan to stay with the company
Knowledge of Hobby Lobby’s history and values as a Christian-based company
Yes, multiple applicants reported a math portion. It includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, sales tax, and percentage discounts (e.g., What is 66% off of $3.49? or What is 40% off an item?). Calculators and phones are not allowed.
Arrive on time.
Learn about Hobby Lobby’s values and history—it is a faith-based company.
Review basic math (percentages, sales tax, discounts).
Visit a store beforehand to get familiar with products.
Hobby Lobby Interview Process Explained
Wondering what the Hobby Lobby interview process looks like? This quick snapshot highlights top questions, dress code, difficulty, and key tips from real applicants.
How to dress for a Hobby Lobby Interview
Most applicants report that business casual is the safest choice for a Hobby Lobby interview. A collared shirt with slacks or a simple blouse with dress pants works well. You don’t need a full suit, but avoid overly casual clothes like shorts, ripped jeans, or flip-flops.
| Attire | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Casual | 33% |
| Business Casual | 66% |
| Formal | 0% |
Number of Applicants: 3
Hobby Lobby Interview Difficulty
Hobby Lobby interviews are typically rated as easy to medium in difficulty. Most questions are straightforward, focusing on past work experience, customer service, and basic math skills.
| Difficulty | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Easy | 33% |
| Medium | 66% |
| Hard | 0% |
Number of Applicants: 3