The job I applied for was a retail visual merchandising assistant PT position, but was declined after the 1:1 interview, which I had expected since I come from an IT background and had zero experience with retail and visual merchandising - but I still took a chance! Regardless of the outcome, it was a pleasant and easy interview thanks to the interviewer, who was very friendly, kind, and had put me at ease.
Even though I was not hired for the first position, the interviewer passed along my name to two other merchandising team managers and after two quick 1:1 interviews, I was hired as a merchandising lead (current job). I love my job - yes, I wish it was FT with a better pay, but I can't complain since I'm grateful for getting this opportunity when no other major retailers would give me the light of day.
My only advice for the hiring and interview process is to show ambition, determination, and enthusiasm - they want to see that even if you don't have the experience, you have that desire to show them what you've got and that you have the willingness to learn.
