How to Get a Job in Decathlon: Application, Interview, & Hiring Process

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How to Get a Job in Decathlon: Application, Interview, & Hiring Process

If you’re passionate about sports, love being active, and dream of turning your hobby into a career, working at Decathlon might be just what you need.

With its energetic vibe, sports-first culture, and global presence, Decathlon isn’t just a retail company—it’s a movement that inspires people to live healthier, more active lives. Whether you’re fresh out of college, a sports coach, or looking for a dynamic retail career, Decathlon offers great opportunities for individuals who thrive on teamwork, leadership, and customer interaction.

But how exactly do you get a job at Decathlon? What’s the hiring process like? How should you prepare for the interview?

Let’s break it all down—from application to offer letter—in a step-by-step guide that’s simple, friendly, and practical.

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Why Work at Decathlon?

Before diving into the hiring process, here’s why Decathlon attracts thousands of job seekers every year:

• Sports-centric culture – You’re encouraged to play and promote sports daily.
• Flat hierarchy – Even entry-level employees have a voice in decision-making.
• Career growth – Fast-track promotions and internal movement are common.
• Work-life balance – Flexible shifts, sporting events, and employee wellness programs.
• Perks – Employee discounts, skill development, and team outings.

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Step 1: Understand the Roles Available

Decathlon hires for both retail and corporate roles. Most people start in retail, but depending on your skills, you can also apply to tech, logistics, or operations roles.

Here are some common positions:

1. Sports Leader / Sport Advisor

• Entry-level retail job
• Involves sales, customer service, managing a sport section
• Must play at least one sport actively
• Great for freshers

2. Department Manager / Store Manager

• Leadership role overseeing teams and sections
• Includes inventory, budgeting, and hiring responsibilities
• Requires leadership and retail experience

3. Warehouse / Supply Chain Roles

• Handling logistics, inventory management
• Suitable for operations and engineering graduates

4. Digital / Tech Roles

• Includes app developers, UX designers, IT specialists
• Requires relevant technical qualifications and experience

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Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Where to Apply:

You can apply for a Decathlon job through:

• The official Decathlon Careers website
• LinkedIn (Decathlon India or Global)
• Third-party job portals (e.g., Naukri, Indeed)
• Walk-in interviews (for some retail roles)

What You’ll Need:

1. Updated Resume – Highlight relevant experience, sports involvement, teamwork, and customer service.
2. Cover Letter (optional but helpful) – Briefly explain why you’re passionate about working at Decathlon.
3. Sporting Background – Be ready to show how actively you engage in sports (coaching, playing, training, etc.).

📝 Tip: Even for retail roles, your resume should showcase ownership, communication skills, and problem-solving—three key traits Decathlon looks for.

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Step 3: Online Application Process

Once you find a role you like, hit “Apply Now” and fill in the application form. Some things they might ask:

• Your sports interests (and how often you play)
• Previous work experience or internships
• Availability for shifts
• Willingness to relocate

💡 Pro Tip: Decathlon LOVES people who live and breathe sports. Even if you don’t have experience, your passion and energy can help you stand out.

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Step 4: The Interview Process – What to Expect

The Decathlon hiring process is friendly, fast-paced, and interactive. You won’t face boring Q&As. Instead, you’ll often engage in group tasks, role-playing, or even sports drills!

Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens:

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🔹 Round 1: Telephonic or Video Screening

• Conducted by HR or the store manager
• Duration: 15–20 minutes
• Questions include:
  • Why do you want to work at Decathlon?
  • What sports do you play and how often?
  • Are you comfortable with sales targets?
  • Do you prefer working in teams?

Tip: Be genuine, enthusiastic, and customer-focused. Show your willingness to learn.

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🔹 Round 2: Group Discussion / Activity (for Retail Roles)

• You may be asked to:
  • Sell a product to the group
  • Discuss a sports-related scenario
  • Role-play customer interactions

Why it matters: This round checks your teamwork, leadership, confidence, and communication.

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🔹 Round 3: In-Person Interview

• Conducted at the store or virtually (depending on location)
• Deep dive into:
  • Your understanding of the brand
  • Real-life problem-solving situations
  • How you’d manage customers or inventory
  • Your availability and commitment

Sample Questions:

• “What would you do if a customer wanted a refund outside policy?”
• “How do you stay motivated when targets aren’t met?”
• “Tell me about a time you solved a difficult situation in a team.”

📝 Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer scenario-based questions.

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🔹 Final Round: Store Trial (Optional but Common)

In many stores, Decathlon invites shortlisted candidates to spend a few hours or a day in the store. You may be asked to:

• Arrange shelves
• Talk to real customers
• Participate in a sports demo

This is their way of checking:

• Your energy levels
• Willingness to take initiative
• Ability to fit into their culture

💬 Candidate Tip: “I got hired after a half-day trial where I helped a customer find the right running shoes. They loved my interaction, and I got the job offer the next day!”

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Step 5: Offer Letter and Onboarding

If you clear all rounds, congratulations! 🎉 You’ll receive:

• A job offer (email or letter)
• A joining kit with your role description and policies
• Details on training and uniform

Most new hires go through Decathlon Academy, which trains you in:

• Company culture and values
• Product knowledge
• Customer engagement
• Inventory and tech systems

🟢 Joining time: Usually within 7–10 days from selection, depending on the role and location.

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Salary and Benefits at Decathlon

Here’s what you can expect (approximate figures):

Role	Average Monthly Salary
Sports Advisor	₹18,000 – ₹25,000
Department Manager	₹30,000 – ₹45,000
Store Manager	₹50,000 – ₹75,000
Warehouse Executive	₹25,000 – ₹40,000
Corporate / Tech Roles	₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000+

Perks:

• Performance-based bonuses
• Health insurance
• Employee discounts
• Training and upskilling
• Sports coaching opportunities
• Career growth to international branches

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Growth Opportunities

One of the best things about Decathlon is how fast you can grow if you’re committed.

A Sports Leader can move to Department Manager in 1–2 years, then to Store Leader, and even Area Director over time. Many top leaders at Decathlon India started on the shop floor!

You can also switch domains internally—say, from sales to supply chain, or from retail to HR.

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Tips to Get Hired at Decathlon

• ✅ Be sport-centric: List your sporting achievements and passion on your resume.
• ✅ Be energetic: Show confidence and customer orientation in interviews.
• ✅ Be a team player: Group activities matter, so stay active and involved.
• ✅ Be flexible: Retail jobs may need weekend or shift work—show willingness.
• ✅ Be brand-aware: Understand Decathlon’s values, products, and target customers.

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In Conclusion

Getting a job at Decathlon is about more than experience—it’s about passion, energy, and attitude. Whether you’re looking for your first job or want to switch to a more dynamic career, Decathlon is a fantastic place to learn, grow, and play (literally!).

So, if you’ve got a love for sports and a desire to work in an empowering environment, gear up, apply, and take the leap into the Decathlon universe.

🏁 Ready to apply? Head to careers.decathlon.in or drop your CV at your nearest store.

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Would you like a PDF version of this article or a resume template tailored for Decathlon jobs? I can help with that too!