I applied online. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Macy's (Denver, CO) in Dec 2011
Interview
The interview was a single 15 minute one-on-one interview with the store's sales manager. Aside from the "Tell me about yourself" question, I was asked only one situational question, "Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a troublesome employee and how did you handle it?".
My observations: I arrived early for my 10 AM interview to observe the store environment. Macy's stores at this time of year are immaculate, very high energy environments with well-dressed, respectful employees. My perception as a customer is that Macy's is a cut above their competitors in this aspect. The Interview environment: When I arrived at the General Office located in the back of the store, there was one other interviewee present who was cleanly casually dressed. I dressed in suit (coordinated but non-matching slacks), white shirt & tie. Sales Manager wore light-colored shirt, no tie or coat, with black slacks; well trimmed mustache & goatee. After the interview, I found a half-dozen people in the interview waiting area. Surprisingly, all were casually dressed! some in tee-shirts and jeans.
Was interviewed for a seasonal position. Was told they have no seasonal positions, once they found out I was a college student. Made no sense to me quickly ended the interview.
The interview process was straightforward and fairly quick. It started with a phone interview from a recruiter or hiring representative who asked general questions about my background, availability, and interest in the role. The tone was professional but conversational, and the interviewer focused on making sure I could handle a fast-paced, customer-facing environment.
I had one interview with the store manager and it lasted for about 45 minutes. The interview was all standard behavioral questions. I was offered the job on the spot.