Target has become one of America’s largest retailers. They’ve also become a major employer of part-time workers. How does Target hire new employees? What kind of skills should you possess to land a job at Target?

In 2016, Target hired over 300,000 part-time hourly associates. The company hires thousands of applicants each year.

To apply for a position at Target, you’ll need to submit an application. This typically involves uploading a resume or filling out a form. Once they receive your application, they’ll contact you for an interview.

During the interview, you’ll likely answer questions about your experience and why you want to work at Target. Afterward, you’ll go through a background check and drug test. If you pass these steps, then you’ll be offered a job.

What is the application process at Target?

Here are some tips on how to get a job at Target:

1) When do I apply?

There are two ways to apply for a job at Target – online or in person. Typically, you have to fill out an application within weeks of applying.

However, there may be special openings that don’t require an application. For those positions, you can expect to hear back from them within a few days.

2) How long will it take to hear back after I apply?

It depends on the type of position you’re applying for. Typically, it takes several weeks before you receive any feedback. You can expect to see a response by email.

3) Where can I find jobs at Target?

You can search for open positions at Target either on their website: https://corporate.target.com/careers/ or through their app.

4) Do I have to take a test?

Yes! There are tests available that employers use to screen out potential candidates who are not qualified.

5) Why am I being asked to provide references?

Your references play a role in determining whether or not you’re hired. Employers often ask for references because they need to know if your previous supervisors had good things to say about you. References are especially important when you first start working as a part-timer.

6) Can I call my references?

Sure! But generally speaking, it’s best to avoid calling your references. Instead, you can write them letters explaining what happened and ask them to write positive comments about your performance.

7) What are the requirements for being promoted at Target?

You’ll probably be promoted based on merit. That said, there are a couple of exceptions. Promotions will sometimes require specific training programs. In addition, certain departments may require higher education levels than other areas of the store.

8) Who is responsible for the hiring process at Target?

The manager of the department where you apply determines which candidate gets the job. Oftentimes, this means choosing the most experienced candidate.

9) Are there different types of positions at Target? 

Target offers many different kinds of positions. These include full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary positions.

How to start applying for a job at Target?

Here are some tips on how to get a job at Target:

1. Apply Online

The best way to apply for a job is online. You can create a profile in minutes. Upload photos and write up a summary of yourself on the site.

2. Be Specific About Your Interests

Target uses its website to help them find people who can fill specific positions. So if you’re looking for a job that requires customer service, make sure to include that information when applying.

3. Create A Resume

When creating your resume, don’t just list your previous jobs. Instead, focus on what you did and where you learned it. For more info, read this article.

4. Use Social Media

If you have social media accounts like Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, etc., use them to promote yourself as a potential candidate. In fact, before applying for any job, do a little research on the company’s websites and see what kinds of content they share. If there’s something positive, tag them in posts.

5. Don’t Forget to Email

If you send an email to someone within Target asking to join their team, it’s possible they could ignore you. However, if you send a well-thought-out request using proper grammar, spelling, and sentence structure, you increase your chances of being heard.

6. Have Questions? Ask Them!

Once you’ve applied and been interviewed, it’s time to ask questions. During the interview, ask as many questions as you’d like. Some employers will even give you answers to your questions.

7. Follow Up

After you’ve submitted your application and had an interview, be patient. It could take weeks or months for them to call you back so it’s best to do a follow-up. Keep in mind that there are hundreds of other candidates vying for those spots.

8. Network With People Who Work There

This may seem obvious, but reach out to people who work at Target and mention you’re interviewing with the company. They might put in a good word for you.

9. Update LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is a great place to show off your professional life. Make sure you update your status to indicate that you’re searching for a new opportunity. That way, you can potentially show up in the search results when someone searches for “jobs” on the site.

10. Show Off What You Know

In addition to posting a resume and updating your LinkedIn profile, make sure to upload examples of your work. These can include links to projects, presentations, blog posts, or anything else that showcases your skills.

11. Stay Positive & Optimistic

Regardless of whether or not you get called back for an interview, always stay optimistic and positive. Hanging around complaining isn’t going to move you forward.

12. Practice Good Interview Etiquette

Before you walk into an interview, practice talking confidently and politely. Also, keep in mind that no one wants to hire you if you look unprofessional.

13. Be Yourself

Target hires based on personality instead of qualifications. So try to avoid coming across as fake.

14. Take Notes

While taking notes during an interview, remember to highlight keywords that describe you. This helps you prepare for follow-up interviews.

15. Read Their Website Carefully

You should also spend some time reading about the company that you’re applying for. If all of the information seems appropriate, then you probably won’t have too much trouble getting hired.

16. Prepare Your References

Before submitting applications, contact former bosses, colleagues, friends, family members, etc. who can provide letters of reference. Include them in the cover letter so they know why you want the position.

How long will it take to start working at Target?

It takes anywhere from 4 – 8 weeks to start working for Target. The average wait time is 6 weeks. Target starts training employees 2 weeks after hiring.

Once you’re hired, you earn 10 paid days off per year, which can range between 2 and 12 depending on how busy the store is.

Is it difficult to get hired at Target?

Yes. There are more applicants than available positions. However, once you apply, you’ll need to be extremely prepared to stand out from the crowd.

Here’s everything you need to know!

1. Research the company first.

We highly recommend doing this before applying. Look through their website, read articles published by them, and check out social media pages – whatever you can find. Once you know what makes them tick, you’ll be able to tailor your application to reflect exactly what they’re looking for.

2. Write a killer cover letter.

Just like your resume, your cover letter should showcase the unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates. Why did you choose this specific employer? How would you add value to their team? Highlight any relevant experience and achievements.

3. Tailor your resume to match the requirements.

The most important thing here is to focus on the specifics of each job description. What do they actually require? What skills will help you get there? What knowledge must you possess? Don’t just copy and paste the same resume template over and over again. Make sure it’s customized specifically for each role.

4. Keep your references updated.

Whether you’ve worked with them directly or indirectly, let employers know when you’re considering a new opportunity. They may even give you special consideration!

What’s it like to work at Target?

Working at Target has its perks: flexible hours, great benefits, generous vacation policy, free lunch, etc. You’ll also learn a lot about yourself and grow professionally while gaining valuable life experiences.

However, you’ll definitely be challenged. Your manager may make quick decisions without consulting others. Teamwork and communication can sometimes be difficult. And don’t worry; you’ll always have someone to turn to if you ever run into problems.

Best way to increase your chances of getting hired at target?

Target hires people from every background. They welcome anyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, marital status, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic status, and political affiliation.

To increase your chances of getting hired, our expert resume writers can help you craft a well-written resume to help you land an interview.