Vera Bradley? And other designer stores like that?

Question

Okay so yesterday I applied for a job at my local Vera Bradley. The person I gave my application to was really nice, and she said she would give it to her manager. But, I'm a worrier, and I know I probably won't get the job, even though it would totally complete my life at the moment. I'm depressing myself right now as I type this, for having my hopes too high. I was bouncing off the wall when I gave my application cause I ran over there the day-of they announced they were hiring. So I have a few questions for people who work at VB or a place like it. Any place in general actually....

1. How long does it take for the manager to respond to your application? Since yesterday was Friday and today is Saturday, it has been a full 24+ hours. Does that mean I should let my hopes die?

2. Can 16 year olds work for VB? This is my first job application. EVER. Will knowing nothing about retail lower my chances?

3. Let's say I get the job. *perks up a little* Do I have to know every single name of the patterns they use? Like if someone points to a bag, I have to automatically say "Pinwheel Pink"?

4. I love everything in there, but on a teenagers salary *cough5dollarsaweekcough* I could never afford anything from VB. I'll probably want to buy a lot of bags and stuff. Do employees get a percentage off whatever they buy? If so, how much?

5. The VB I applied to is a Signature store smack dab in the middle of rich people central. Seriously. I heard Kobe Bryant bought an apartment for 1.3 million or so in the same complex the store is in. What's the difference between a signature store and a non-signature store?

6. As I said before, I think I gave my application in first. Will that improve my chances of getting the job?

7. And finally... what do you usually wear to work? Let's say they want me to interview? What should I wear? If you don't work at VB, what kind of clothes do you usually see the employees wear?

Thank you all so much for your help! xD

*sucks thumb and rocks silently in a corner while she awaits a phone call from VB*

Answer 1

PQ -- I've never worked at VB, but I think you have a good chance based on enthusiasm alone. Don't worry about not knowing all the patterns yet -- that will come with time after you are hired. It can take managers a week or a month to interview people, so don't panic yet. Retail employees normally get a 5% to 30% discount -- it just depends upon the store. Unfortunately, putting in your application first doesn't guarantee success. But your attitude certainly helps!

But here's what I really wanted to say: I know this sounds strange, but...I'm a full-time freelance writer. And I really want to encourage you to continue writing. Based on this post, you have a real gift for it, and it would be a shame if you never did anything with it.

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