I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Nordstrom (Walnut Creek, CA) in May 2013
Interview
Filled out online application. Got an email within a week to schedule a phone interview. Phone interview was short, 10-15 minutes. Was asked about availability, etc. Did not get a call back until about 2 months later (so unprofessional) when they asked if I was available to help with the anniversary sale, but by then I was already employed elsewhere and had to decline
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.
So easy, I went to a job fair and was hired on the spot. They need people in the kids department, that's the easiest section to get into. They just ask about your personality and who you are.
Was inside Barton creek mall, hiring manager was prompt and clear with questions ranging from how I would handle difficult customers, to my personal experiences that could apply to the job.