Interview preparation at Burlington

Company overview

• Off-price retailer specializing in brand-name merchandise at significant discounts through opportunistic buying of manufacturer surplus inventory
• Differentiated by superior sourcing network, real estate optimization with smaller efficient stores, and transition from coat specialist to multi-category retailer
• Positioned as accessible value destination for budget-conscious consumers seeking quality branded products
• Operates both physical retail locations and online sales channels

Competitors

• TJX Companies
• Ross Stores
• Marshalls
• T.J. Maxx

Products

• Women's apparel
• Men's apparel
• Youth and children's apparel
• Coats and outerwear
• Footwear and accessories
• Home goods
• Beauty and fragrance

Culture

• Value-driven organization rooted in founder vision of delivering quality at discounted prices
• Cost-efficiency focused with bootstrapped startup mentality despite current scale
• Customer-centric approach emphasizing accessibility and value

Values

• Commitment to value and affordability
• Operational efficiency and cost consciousness
• Customer service excellence in discount retail environment

Strategic priorities

• Real estate optimization through smaller, high-traffic store locations with lower per-square-foot rent
• Expansion into new geographic markets across the United States
• Strengthening vendor relationships and sourcing network for competitive inventory acquisition
• Multi-category product diversification beyond core apparel offerings

Current moment

Expansion and optimization phase with 1,138 stores as of Q2 Fiscal 2025, focusing on penetrating new markets with smaller, more efficient store formats and optimizing real estate strategy

Selection timeline

1. Online Application

   Candidates submit an online application through Burlington Stores' website or job portal. The process is described as simple and quick, with most applicants receiving contact from the company within 1-2 days of submission.

2. Phone Screening/Interview

   A brief phone interview lasting 5-10 minutes where recruiters ask basic behavioral questions such as 'Tell me about yourself,' availability, experience with difficult customers, and what attracts the candidate to the store. This stage occurs shortly after the online application, often the next day.

3. On-Site Interview

   An in-person interview at the store location, reported by 68% of cashier candidates. Interviewers focus on behavioral questions and assess the candidate's energy level, personability, and customer service aptitude. This stage typically occurs within a few days of the phone screening.

4. Background Check

   A background check is conducted on 42% of cashier applicants, typically processed quickly after the on-site interview. Results are often returned within 1-2 days, sometimes on the same day as the interview.

5. Orientation and Onboarding

   Once hired, candidates complete orientation which includes paperwork (tax forms, personal information via Workday system) and paid training. Orientation is typically scheduled within 2-5 days of final approval.