Top 10 Target Video Interview Questions 2025: Complete Guide + Sample Answers

You’ve applied to Target, and now you’ve received the email: “Congrats! You’ve been selected to interview with Target.” There’s just one catch. It’s not a traditional face-to-face interview. Instead, you’ll be talking to a camera in Target’s HireVue video interview.

If you’re feeling nervous about recording yourself answering interview questions with no interviewer to bounce off of, you’re not alone. The one-way video interview format feels awkward at first, but here’s the good news: Target asks the same core questions to most candidates. That means you can prepare specific answers ahead of time and walk into your interview feeling confident and ready.

Target’s video interview is your first real chance to show hiring managers who you are. The company uses these recorded interviews to screen candidates for guest service skills, teamwork abilities, and cultural fit before moving forward with in-person interviews. Get this right, and you’re one big step closer to joining one of America’s most beloved retailers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 Target video interview questions you’re most likely to face in 2025. You’ll get proven sample answers, insider tips for standing out, and practical advice for mastering the HireVue platform. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to present yourself as the ideal Target team member.

Let’s get you hired.

Understanding Target’s HireVue Video Interview Process

Before we dive into the questions, let’s talk about what you’re actually walking into.

Target uses HireVue, a one-way video interview platform, for initial candidate screening. This isn’t a live video call. You’ll receive an email invitation with a link to complete the interview on your own time. The email comes from interviews@hirevue.com with the subject line “Congrats! You’ve been selected to interview with Target.”

Here’s how it works. You’ll answer 6 pre-recorded questions on camera. For each question, you get 2 minutes to prepare your thoughts and 3 minutes to record your answer. If you don’t like your response, you can re-record it. Target only sees your final submission.

The entire interview takes about 30 minutes to complete. According to Target’s official recorded video interview page, once you submit, a Target recruiter or hiring manager reviews your responses alongside your resume. You’ll typically hear back within five business days.

Interview Guys Tip: Test your equipment before starting the official interview. HireVue gives you practice questions to check your camera, microphone, and lighting. Take advantage of this. Nothing kills a strong answer faster than poor audio quality or a dark, grainy video.

To help you prepare, we’ve created a resource with proven answers to the top questions interviewers are asking right now. Check out our interview answers cheat sheet:

Top 10 Target Video Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)

1. Why are you interested in working at Target, and what relevant experience do you bring?

This opening question almost always appears in Target video interviews. They want to know you’ve done your homework and understand what makes Target different from other retailers.

What Target is really asking: Do you understand our values, and will you fit our culture?

Sample Answer:

“I’m excited about this opportunity at Target because I’ve always admired how the company balances being a major retailer with having a genuine community focus. I shop at Target regularly, and I’ve noticed how team members go out of their way to help guests find what they need, not just make a sale.

In my current role at a local coffee shop, I serve about 150 customers daily during rush periods. I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, anticipate customer needs, and keep a positive attitude even when things get hectic. Last month, our store received a 4.8-star rating on Google, and my manager mentioned that several reviews specifically praised the friendly service during busy times.

What draws me to Target specifically is your commitment to ‘care, grow, and win together.’ I’m looking for a place where I can develop my retail skills and potentially grow into leadership roles over time. From what I’ve read about Target’s promotion-from-within culture, this seems like the perfect fit for my career goals.”

2. Describe a time when something didn’t go as planned. How did you adjust?

This behavioral question tests your adaptability and problem-solving skills. Use the SOAR Method to structure your answer.

What Target is really asking: Can you handle unexpected challenges without falling apart?

Sample Answer:

“Situation: During my time volunteering at a community food bank, I was responsible for organizing a donation drive that we expected would bring in about 200 canned goods based on previous years.

Obstacle: On the day of the drive, we only received about 50 items by noon, way below our goal. I realized our usual promotion strategy of just posting flyers wasn’t reaching enough people.

Action: Instead of giving up, I quickly adapted our approach. I reached out to the volunteers and asked them to post about the drive on their social media accounts with photos of what we’d collected so far. I also called three local businesses we hadn’t contacted before and explained our situation. Two of them agreed to match whatever we collected that day.

Result: By the end of the drive, we collected 180 items plus the business donations brought us to 280 total. It wasn’t the original plan, but adjusting our strategy mid-event taught me the importance of being flexible and creative when things don’t go as expected.”

Interview Guys Tip: Target values team members who can pivot quickly in a fast-paced retail environment. When answering behavioral interview questions like this one, emphasize what you learned from the experience, not just what went wrong.

3. How do you work with people who have different perspectives than your own?

Target prioritizes inclusivity and collaboration. This question assesses your ability to work effectively with diverse teams.

What Target is really asking: Will you respect and value different viewpoints?

Sample Answer:

“Situation: In my role as a student government representative, I worked on a committee planning our school’s spring festival. We had five members with very different ideas about the theme and activities.

Obstacle: Two committee members wanted a formal event with a sit-down dinner, while others, including me, thought a casual outdoor festival would attract more students. The discussions were getting tense because everyone felt strongly about their vision.

Action: I suggested we step back and focus on our shared goal: getting maximum student attendance. I asked everyone to share what they thought students actually wanted based on feedback they’d heard. We each did quick informal surveys of our friend groups. Then I proposed combining elements from different ideas.

Result: We ended up with an outdoor festival with food trucks and a nicer seated area for people who wanted that atmosphere. Attendance was 40% higher than the previous year, and the feedback forms showed students loved having options. That experience taught me that the best solutions often come from listening to different perspectives rather than pushing my own agenda.”

4. Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service.

This question is central to Target’s guest-focused culture. They want specific examples of how you’ve gone above and beyond.

Sample Answer:

“Situation: While working at a busy ice cream shop last summer, an elderly customer came in looking frustrated. She explained that she’d been trying to order a custom ice cream cake online for her granddaughter’s birthday but couldn’t figure out the website.

Obstacle: Our shop didn’t typically take orders in person, only online, and I was the only person working the counter during a Saturday afternoon rush. I had about eight people in line behind her.

Action: I could see she was getting upset, so I asked the other customers if they’d mind if I quickly helped her, and everyone was understanding. I pulled out my phone, walked her through the online ordering process step by step, and even helped her choose decorations her granddaughter would love based on the age and interests she mentioned. I made sure the order was confirmed before she left.

Result: She was so grateful that she came back the next week with a photo of her granddaughter with the cake and thanked me again. My manager heard about it and used it as an example in our next team meeting of how small acts of extra effort create loyal customers. That experience showed me how taking a few extra minutes to truly help someone makes all the difference.”

5. Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team to achieve a goal.

Target operates on teamwork. Every shift requires collaboration between different departments.

Sample Answer:

“Situation: During my time on my high school’s yearbook committee, we had a tight deadline to finalize 200 pages before the printer’s deadline, which was non-negotiable.

Obstacle: With two weeks left, we were behind schedule because our photo editor got sick and couldn’t complete their section. We still had 40 pages unfinished, and everyone else was already maxed out with their assignments.

Action: I called an emergency team meeting where we broke down exactly what needed to be done. Instead of one person doing everything, we each took on 10 pages from the unfinished section in addition to our own work. I also volunteered to come in on Saturday to help anyone who was struggling with the design software.

Result: We submitted the yearbook on time, and it came out great. The printer even complimented us on how well organized our files were. That project taught me that when a team faces obstacles, clear communication and everyone stepping up makes the impossible possible. I’d bring that same collaborative spirit to my role at Target.”

6. How would you handle a difficult or upset guest?

Target team members regularly interact with guests who may be frustrated or unhappy. They need to know you can handle these situations professionally.

Sample Answer:

“First, I’d stay calm and listen carefully to understand what’s actually bothering them. People often just want to feel heard, so I’d give them my full attention without interrupting.

Once I understand the issue, I’d apologize for their frustration, even if it’s not directly my fault, because acknowledging their feelings helps de-escalate the situation. Then I’d focus on finding a solution. If it’s something within my authority, like processing a return or helping them locate an item, I’d handle it immediately.

If the situation requires manager approval or is beyond what I can do, I’d explain that clearly and get help right away rather than making promises I can’t keep. The key is making the guest feel like I’m genuinely trying to solve their problem, not just brushing them off.

I had a similar situation when I worked retail before, where a customer was upset about a pricing discrepancy. After listening and checking the system, I found they were right. I apologized, adjusted the price, and made sure to explain what happened. They ended up thanking me for taking the time to help them. That taught me that handling difficult situations professionally can actually turn frustrated guests into loyal ones.”

7. What would you do if you saw a team member doing something unsafe?

Safety is non-negotiable at Target. This question tests your judgment and willingness to speak up.

Sample Answer:

“I’d address it right away because safety affects everyone in the store. If I saw a team member doing something that could hurt them or someone else, like not using a ladder properly or blocking an emergency exit, I’d approach them directly but respectfully.

I’d say something like, ‘Hey, I noticed you’re doing this. I’m concerned because it looks unsafe. Can I help you do this a safer way?’ Most of the time, people aren’t trying to cut corners, they just might not realize the risk or might be rushing to finish a task.

If it’s something serious or if the team member doesn’t respond well to feedback, I wouldn’t hesitate to involve a team lead or manager. It’s not about getting anyone in trouble, it’s about making sure everyone goes home safely at the end of their shift. That has to be the priority.”

8. How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks?

Retail involves plenty of repetitive work, from stocking shelves to processing transactions.

Sample Answer:

“I approach repetitive tasks by focusing on how they contribute to the bigger picture. When I’m stocking shelves, I’m not just putting products in a specific spot, I’m making sure guests can find what they need quickly. When I’m processing transactions, I’m creating a smooth checkout experience that makes people want to come back to Target.

I also challenge myself to improve my efficiency. For example, if I’m organizing inventory, I’ll see if I can create a system that makes things faster without sacrificing quality. Turning it into a personal challenge keeps me engaged.

Finally, I use those tasks as opportunities to practice staying positive and focused even when work feels routine. That mindset helps me stay energized throughout my shift instead of watching the clock. In my last job, my manager even commented on how I maintained the same positive attitude during closing tasks that I had during customer-facing work.”

9. Describe your availability and flexibility with scheduling.

Target needs team members who can work various shifts, especially during peak times.

Sample Answer:

“I have a very flexible schedule and I’m available to work mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends. I understand retail hours can vary based on guest traffic and business needs, and I’m comfortable with that.

I’m also available to work during busy periods like back-to-school season, Black Friday, and the holidays. I know those are critical times for Target, and I’m prepared to be reliable when the team needs me most.

If my schedule ever changes due to unforeseen circumstances, I’d communicate that as early as possible and work with management to find solutions. I’m a dependable person who shows up on time and ready to work. Reliability is important to me because I know my team members are counting on me to be there.”

10. Why should we hire you for this position?

This is your chance to tie everything together and make your final case.

Sample Answer:

“You should hire me because I bring exactly what Target values: genuine care for guests, strong teamwork skills, and a positive attitude that stays consistent even during challenging shifts.

I’m not just looking for any job. I specifically want to work at Target because I align with your values of creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels respected. I’ve done my research on your commitment to community involvement and your track record of promoting team members from within. That tells me this is a place that invests in its people.

Beyond that, I’m someone who takes initiative, learns quickly, and isn’t afraid to go the extra mile. Whether that means staying late to help finish a project or jumping in to cover a busy register, I’m ready to contribute from day one. I’m excited about the opportunity to grow with Target and potentially take on more responsibility as I develop my skills.”

5 Insider Tips for Crushing Your Target Video Interview

Based on insights from current Target team members and hiring managers, here are five insider tips that’ll give you an edge.

Use Target’s Language Throughout Your Interview

Current Target employees emphasize that hiring managers listen for specific terminology. Say “guest” instead of “customer” and “team member” instead of “employee” or “coworker.” This shows you understand Target’s culture and have done your homework. According to reviews from actual candidates, people who naturally use Target’s language stand out as applicants who’ve prepared properly.

Don’t Overthink the Re-Record Feature

While HireVue lets you re-record answers, Target insiders recommend not using this too frequently. If you stumble slightly on a word or two, that’s fine. Your authenticity matters more than perfection. Only re-record if you completely lost your train of thought or gave a fundamentally weak answer. Hiring managers can tell when someone has over-rehearsed to the point of sounding robotic.

Keep Your Answers Under 2 Minutes

Even though HireVue gives you 3 minutes per response, Target recruiters report that the strongest answers typically run 90 seconds to 2 minutes. This shows you can communicate concisely and respect the hiring manager’s time. Practice your answers beforehand so you’re naturally concise rather than watching the clock nervously during your actual recording.

Show Enthusiasm Even Though You’re Alone

The hardest part of video interviews is maintaining energy when you’re talking to a camera instead of a person. Target hiring managers consistently note that candidates who smile, use natural hand gestures, and vary their tone make much stronger impressions than those who deliver monotone answers. Imagine you’re talking to a friend who’s genuinely interested in your story.

Interview Guys Tip: According to Target’s corporate interview tips, passion and curiosity are qualities that rise to the top. Don’t be afraid to let your genuine excitement about the opportunity shine through.

Research Target’s Recent Initiatives Before Your Interview

Visit Target’s corporate website and recent press releases to find initiatives you can mention naturally in your answers. For example, if you’re asked why you want to work at Target, mentioning specific programs like their commitment to sustainability or community partnerships shows genuine interest. Candidates who reference current Target projects demonstrate stronger cultural fit.

Technical Tips for Your Target HireVue Interview

Set Up Your Environment

Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background. Natural light works best, but if that’s not available, face a lamp or overhead light so your face is clearly visible. Avoid backlighting from windows, which makes you look like a silhouette.

Test Everything Twice

Use HireVue’s practice questions to verify your camera angle, audio quality, and internet connection. Position your camera at eye level so you’re not looking up or down. Make sure your face takes up most of the frame without being too close.

Dress the Part

Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Even though you’re at home, wearing professional attire puts you in the right mindset and shows Target you’re taking the process seriously. Business casual is perfect, a nice collared shirt or blouse at minimum.

Keep Notes Nearby (But Don’t Read From Them)

It’s okay to have bullet points nearby for reference, but don’t read directly from a script. Glancing down constantly breaks eye contact with the camera and makes your answers feel rehearsed. Use notes as a safety net, not a crutch.

What Happens After Your Target Video Interview?

After you submit your HireVue interview, Target’s recruiting team reviews your responses along with your resume and application. The typical timeline is five business days for feedback.

If you advance, you’ll move to an in-person interview with a hiring manager or team lead. This usually lasts 30-45 minutes and covers similar behavioral questions but in a conversational format where you can ask your own questions about the role and team. Check out our guide on questions to ask at the end of an interview to prepare thoughtful questions that show your genuine interest.

If you don’t hear back or receive a rejection, don’t be discouraged. Many successful Target team members applied multiple times before getting hired. Use the experience to refine your approach. Consider applying for different positions or locations, and always request feedback if possible.

According to Target’s official interview guide, Target promotes from within 75% of the time. That means even if you’re starting in an entry-level position, showing leadership potential and growth mindset during your interview sets you up for future advancement opportunities.

Interview Guys Tip: If you don’t get an offer this time, treat it as valuable practice. Review your recorded answers (if you saved them), think about what you could improve, and apply those lessons to your next opportunity. Persistence pays off.

Final Thoughts

Target’s HireVue video interview might feel intimidating at first, but remember: you’re not expected to be perfect. Target is looking for authentic team members who genuinely care about creating great guest experiences and working collaboratively with others.

The questions in this guide cover the core areas Target evaluates. Prepare solid answers using the SOAR Method for behavioral questions, practice with the HireVue platform, and let your personality shine through. Show them why you’d be an asset to their team, and you’ll be wearing that red shirt in no time.

For more comprehensive interview preparation strategies that work across all companies, check out our complete guide to interview tips and hacks. And if you want to dive deeper into answering common interview questions, our top interview questions and answers guide will help you prepare for anything an interviewer throws your way.

You’ve got this. Now go ace that interview.

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