faqs
Please find listed below some common questions that have been asked by previous applicants and our answers.
1. Do you offer work experience placements in your stores?
Our stores are quite small, with small teams in them. What this means is, we cannot dedicate the time and support that placement students need so that they get the most out of the experience.
2. Can I apply by post rather than online?
We would prefer to receive all applications online, however, should this not be possible, please post your application to HR, Unit 4 Bromford Gate, Bromford Lane, Birmingham B24 8DW.
3. Can I email Claire's with a question or to follow up my application?
Of course, if you have an enquiry please send it to us using our enquiry and feedback form.
4. Can I apply for more than one role?
Yes, but although the selection criteria may be similar most positions are very different. Please think about the type of role that will suit you best and your ultimate goals, and only apply for appropriate vacancies.
5. Can I apply if I don't have a full work-permit?
There is nothing to stop you from applying, but in order for us to process your application, you must be able to demonstrate to us that you are eligible to work in the UK and we will ask you to be able to confirm this during the selection process. We will not offer you employment with us, if you are not eligible to work in the UK.
6. What hours will I be expected to work?
This obviously depends upon where you work.
In stores, managers and assistant managers tend to work full time (5 days out of the 7 trading days), and may work up till 10pm at peak trade times such as Christmas.
Store assistants tend to work 3 or 4 hour shifts per day, on anything up to 5 days per week (but you’d agree that with your Store Manager through the recruitment process). Due to our trading hours, and our customer flow, you will need to work weekends, and also late nights – particularly at Christmas when some shopping centres (like Merryhill in Dudley in the Midlands) trade till midnight!
In Central office, it’s normally Monday – Friday, 9 – 5.30 (unless you work in the DC). But this can vary depending upon what’s happening in Claire’s.
7. How old to I need to be to work in a Claire’s store?
As all Claire’s store employees are required to learn how to, and carry out ear – piercing we cannot recruit anyone who is under 16 years of age, as we cannot get a license for under 16’s to carry out ear – piercing.
8. Do I really have to pierce ears?
Yes. All store employees have to provide this service
9. So, what does ear-piercing involve?
We ear pierce babies from the age of 6 months – and there is no upper age limit! We only pierce the ear lobe and cartilege, anything else is classed as ‘body piercing’ and not what we’re about! You will receive full training, and get the chance to practice before you have to pierce for real – the piercing instrument really does the job for you – you may be surprised, but there’s no blood and it’s relatively quick and painless.
10. What can I expect at an interview?
Friendly people and lots of questions. We'll want to know all about your background and whether your skills match what we're looking for. Of course, interviews work two ways, so you'll be encouraged to ask questions about Claire's in return. For more information about the interview itself, visit what to expect at your interview.
11. If my application is unsuccessful, can I request feedback?
Due to the number of applications we receive, we are unable to provide feedback to all applicants, however we will provide feedback if you attend an interview.
12. What is the dress code at Claire's?
Claire's is in the fashion industry so naturally in our stores we want our employees to reflect a strong fashion sense, dressing appropriately and in a way that reflects our customer's aspirations. However we don't allow our staff to wear jeans or trainers. The dress code at central office ranges from fashionable to business casual, depending upon which area you work in. In the distribution centre, bearing in mind the high level of manual work, essentially you wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Claire's will provide appropriate protective wear, including steel toe cap boots and high visibility jackets as necessary.
13. Are there lots of social activities?
Claire's strongly encourages team working, so there’s always a lot happening either on an informal or formal level
14. What can I expect on my first day?
From day one we will make you feel as welcome as possible. You'll be greeted by your Line Manager, introduced to the people in your team or department and shown around your new work environment. The rest will really depend on where you are working, and what your role is, but rest assured, you’ll be in good hands!