33 Balenciaga Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Balenciaga we prefer to hire those with experience in manufacturing. Do you have any exposure to a manufacturing, production, or mill environment?
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer any experience that you have in a manufacturing or textile mill environment. If you do not have experience in manufacturing and production, be sure to let the interviewer know that you can quickly learn the industry.
1st Answer Example
"I have eight years' experience in a clothing manufacturing setting with Company X and Company Y. I am well versed in production and know I would succeed at Balenciaga S.A., if given the opportunity."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I do not have direct experience in a manufacturing plant or production environment, I am very familiar with the inner workings of manufacturing. Rest assured I can learn quickly and am ready to apply my existing knowledge to this role with Balenciaga S.A.."
2. In your opinion, what do you feel has been the biggest advancement in the clothing and textiles industry over the past 10 years?
How to Answer
Display to the interviewer that you are capable of keeping on top of the latest industry advances and that you have a keen and genuine interest in the industry.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the biggest advancement in the clothing and textiles industry has been surrounding advancements in communication and technology. We can stay connected with anyone around the world in real time which has significantly increased productivity and profitability in the textiles industry."
2nd Answer Example
"In my opinion, the biggest advancement in the clothing and textiles industry has been the fact that people have become more aware of best practices in the industry. It's become more ethical as of late when it comes to production, the purchasing of materials, and focus on the environment."
3. Tell me about the types of products you are most experienced with.
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the products and materials with which you have experience. If your experience does not align correctly with the offerings at Balenciaga S.A., be sure to address that. Avoid any objections from the hiring manager when it comes to offering you the role.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that Balenciaga S.A. works primarily with X, Y, and Z. I have four years experience with these types of products. In addition to this experience, I also bring valuable knowledge in A, B, and C - totaling approximately 15 years."
2nd Answer Example
"I bring 15 years total experience in the clothing and textiles industry. The majority of what I have done would include products such as A, B, and C. Although this isn't the same space as Balenciaga S.A. I am confident that my skills are transferable."
4. I would like to know more about your knowledge of importing and exporting. Are you familiar with NAFTA and the regulations that come along with this agreement?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are not a liability when it comes to costly decisions surrounding importing and exporting a product. Are you familiar with NAFTA and the most critical parts of the agreement?
1st Answer Example
"I have studied and worked with NAFTA regulations for the past eight years. I would consider myself an expert when it comes to the rules and regulations surrounding free trade."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a small amount of exposure to NAFTA but will commit myself to learning the ins and outs so that I am ready to apply my knowledge before starting this role with Balenciaga S.A.."
5. Who do you feel are the biggest competitors of Balenciaga?
How to Answer
It is essential that you have researched Balenciaga S.A. before your interview. After getting to know the company better, which industry players do you feel are the strongest? When you answer this question, you will want to end with a statement that solidifies your confidence in Balenciaga S.A. and their ability to beat out their competitors.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched the competitive space and feel that the more significant competitors of Balenciaga S.A. are A, B, and C. Even though they are competitors, I feel that Balenciaga S.A. brings the strongest reputation in customer service and product quality."
2nd Answer Example
"Every organization has competitors, and if I were to guess, I would say that your biggest competitors are companies X, Y, and Z. With that said, I think that Balenciaga S.A. does an incredible job of standing out in the crowd. Your branding is impeccable, and you have a great reputation for how you treat your employees and clients."
6. At Balenciaga we prefer to hire individuals with formal education in business or design. Do you have any post-secondary education? How do you feel it will help you in this role?
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your formal post-secondary education and discuss how that education has prepared you for this role.
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelors Degree in Art and Design. This education has prepared me in many ways including helping me to understand the cycle of certain elements of fashion including the use of color and patterns. I also attended business classes and some sales training."
2nd Answer Example
"Even though I do not have a completed degree, my business knowledge is strong. I believe in continuous professional development and have taken multiple courses throughout my career including business administration, human resource management, and social media marketing."
7. What do you know about sales and market research in the clothing and textiles industry?
How to Answer
Having a full understanding of market research methods is an excellent asset to any resume. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of understanding the needs of the industry and how to maximize profitability.
1st Answer Example
"I took courses in market research during my time in University. I have a strong understanding of market research and how it relates directly to sales in the clothing and textiles industry. The market has seen a 134% increase in sales since the launch of social media marketing which is incredibly impressive. This way is just one exciting example of how I have seen the market research benefit the textiles industry."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I am new to the clothing and textiles industry, I do have a lot of sales and market research experience. I obtained my BA in Marketing and Design from the University of Montreal and since then have been working as a Marketing Associate for Company XYZ. I am ready to shape my career in the clothing and textiles industry so that I can further utilize the design aspect of my formal education."
8. When it comes to clothing and textiles, where do you gain your inspiration from?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your inspiration when it comes to the clothing and textile industry. What inspires you to stay in this industry and what do you enjoy most about it?
1st Answer Example
"When it comes to clothing and textiles, I gain my inspiration from everyday events and a variety of environments. I truly feel that inspiration can be found anywhere if you are creative enough. That is one of the things I enjoy most about the industry - there are no restrictions to the inspiration!"
2nd Answer Example
"I follow a few great influencers in the clothing industry including Shini Park, Sophia Amoruso, and Tom Ford. They all have a unique style and a great story. I find the most inspiration from those who aren't afraid to take a risk."
9. At Balenciaga we like to be a step ahead of our competitors at all times. How do you stay on top of industry trends?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you ensure you stay on top of trends. It is vital to Balenciaga S.A. that they remain ahead of their competitors and every team member will have a hand in making that happen.
1st Answer Example
"I subscribe to a few blogs and online magazines related to the industry. Every morning I take about 20 minutes to update myself on the current happenings in the clothing and textile industry. I also have Google Alerts set so that I can have real-time industry updates."
2nd Answer Example
"I am always reading! The clothing and textile industry is fast-changing, and I feel that to keep up, you have to be plugged in. This includes reading magazines, blogs, books, and more."
10. What do you know about the workplace culture at Balenciaga?
How to Answer
It is imperative to research the workplace environment before you attend your interview. What does Balenciaga S.A. offer that you don't currently receive from your employer? Talk to the interviewer about what is attracting you to their organization.
1st Answer Example
"I have spent some time researching Balenciaga S.A. and am very impressed with what I have come across so far. I see that you put a lot of effort into giving back to the community and other charitable organizations. One stand-out factor for me is your competitive benefits and employee packages."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a friend who has worked with Balenciaga S.A. for the past three years, and she raves about the culture here. From my understanding, I believe that you value growth, professional development, and creativity."
11. The clothing and textiles industry is very competitive. In which ways do you feel you will give Balenciaga a competitive edge?
How to Answer
When you are applying to a competitive industry, you need to be prepared to assure the hiring manager that you will be an active part of their winning team. In which ways will you bring a competitive edge to Balenciaga S.A., if hired?
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy the competitive environment that comes with working in the clothing and textile industry. If hired, I will bring a keen eye and strong attention to market trends."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that I will give Balenciaga S.A. a competitive edge because of my eight years experience in the industry as well as the formal education that I bring in social media marketing and fashion design. Also, I have traveled a great deal and bring a perspective from a variety of cultures."
12. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?
How to Answer
When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate with Balenciaga S.A..
1st Answer Example
"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. If I were hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact at Balenciaga S.A. very quickly."
2nd Answer Example
"If hired today, I would first work on obtaining all of the industry certifications and training that you need to be completed. This approach will enable me to work independently, and gain traction in my new role."
13. What was your greatest cost-cutting measurement you accomplished at your previous employer?
How to Answer
If you are in a management type of role, you will often be asked to keep your eyes open for cost-saving opportunities. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of understanding the importance of this practice and give a strong example of a time when you have done so.
1st Answer Example
"I have been able to present cost-cutting suggestions many times to my previous employer. The one that I feel had the biggest impact was when I suggested additional warehouse staff. We had three various shifts and still an average of 100 hours of overtime per week. I presented to my employer that we hire one more warehouse employee for each shift, keeping the hours to just 120 regular vs. 100 hours of overtime pay (@1.5x) This recommendation saved the company $31,000 per year. They implemented this change across 15 warehouses the following year, amounting to nearly half a million dollars in savings per year."
2nd Answer Example
"My biggest cost saving measure comes regarding productivity on my team. I was able to craft email copy that I saved as a template and could send out a dozen emails at a time, all personalized, to targeted audiences to set appointments. I was able to do this multiple times per day, while also making calls, and doubled my productivity. I shared this tactic with the team, and it was implemented across the board. While I was not in a managerial role, I was able to roughly double productivity, thereby preventing the need for new hires and surpassing our financial targets for KPIs and financial metrics."
14. When have you faced an unexpected difficulty?
How to Answer
How you face unexpected difficulty can say a lot about your character. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have encountered an unexpected challenge. How did you handle the situation?
1st Answer Example
"The biggest unexpected difficulty that I have faced was my unexpected lay off during the last recession. I had to adapt to a new economy and search deeply for other skills and opportunities. I was able to earn enough to avoid financial strain and am quite proud of my ability to be versatile when required."
2nd Answer Example
"I faced unexpected difficulty last year when Company X swiftly acquired our company. With nobody aware of the change, it was emotional chaos in our offices for some time. I chose to remain calm, avoid jumping to assumptions and continued doing my job as usual. This approach helped me to get through the situation."
15. Do you prefer doing work on a routine day-to-day basis or do you prefer mixing up your routine occasionally?
How to Answer
Are you the individual who prefers to know what the routine will be, or do you thrive on the challenge and excitement of unpredictability? Talk to the interviewer about your preference and be sure to show that you can be useful in both situations.
1st Answer Example
"I prefer working in a more predictable environment because I can be more effective in my tasks. With that said, I can certainly work in an unpredictable environment from time to time."
2nd Answer Example
"I am more accustomed to working in an unpredictable environment, so I do work quite well and efficiently in those types of situations. I can certainly learn to work well on a more routine basis if needed."
16. Describe a situation when you have motivated yourself to complete an assignment or task that you did not want to do.
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you will still get the job done even when you aren't excited about the task at hand. Think about a time when there was a work-related task that you did not want to do. Perhaps the dreaded file room needed to be purged of outdated files to make room for new files. Tell the interviewer what your task was, and explain why you were not excited about it. Be sure to tell the interviewer that even though you were not enthusiastic about the work, you made it happen promptly knowing that it would help the organization as a whole.
1st Answer Example
"I like to set rewards for myself when there are undesirable tasks at hand. For instance, a large part of what I do is review all of the resumes that come into our job portal on a weekly basis. Sometimes there will be up to 200 resumes to review. They all begin to look the same after awhile, so I have set a goal to look at 20 at a time, give myself a quick break, then return to the task."
2nd Answer Example
"As the new employee at my first job, I was delegated the task of scanning in old contracts and related documents. It was overwhelming and not exactly the learning experience I was going for, but I knew I had to complete it and accepted it as my responsibility. As a team member, I maintained a positive attitude about my contribution and formulated a plan to tackle this project. I divided the work into the most important to least important stacks and set out to scan all the documents."
17. Balenciaga likes to hire calculated risk-takers. What is the riskiest decision you have made? What was the situation? What happened?
How to Answer
As a successful professional, you know to calculate risk in your industry. Tell the interviewer about a work-related risk you have taken and what the outcome was.
Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make, and explain why the situation was risky. Describe who the situation affected, as well as the possible outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how the decision paid off, or by mentioning any recognition you received for your success.
1st Answer Example
"The riskiest decision I ever made was to leave the office supplies industry to move into manufacturing, as a consultant. The risk meant that if I were unsuccessful, I would be looking for a new job in a really slow economy. The pay off would be that I would finally be in a sector that I was truly interested in. I made a great career for myself for the next eight years, which has brought me here today - with an exceptional opportunity in front of me."
2nd Answer Example
"One of the riskiest decisions I made was to leave the corporate world and join a textiles startup with an innovative idea. The company was seeking to provide a product/service that would pioneer a new industry. We worked hard and started to launch and create a new space in the textiles marketplace. We failed a lot along the way, but we learned to fail fast, and it made us all better professionals."
18. Think about a difficult boss, professor or other person. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please.
Think about that one person at work who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was with you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.
1st Answer Example
"I once worked at a locally owned shop where the owner was very demanding. When the owner would walk into the store, employees would announce over their headset system that the owner was in the building, so that everyone could be prepared for his entrance into their department. The owner had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as he might say them."
2nd Answer Example
"I struggled most with a newly appointed Director in my most recent position. I did not feel that she was knowledgeable enough to hold the title successfully; however, she was my boss, and for me to be successful, I needed to have a better rapport with her. I chose to invite her on a business trip for an out of town client so that she could see our process in action. We bonded as humans, mothers, and sales executives. She learned a lot about the company and industry, and I learned a lot about her strongest skills."
19. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is essential that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is indeed a virtue but can be challenging to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you possess the ability to keep your cool in challenging conditions.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an 8 /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10 and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
2nd Answer Example
"I was once working with a group that could not quite get along and it tested my patience a bit because it prevented us from staying on track and focusing on the goals. I went above and beyond in helping the group get along by scheduling lunches as a team and helping to mediate situations that needed it."
20. Why is this job with Balenciaga right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical "I am looking for growth" answer that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.
1st Answer Example
"I am looking for growth"
2nd Answer Example
"This job is right for me at this time in my career because I am prepared and ready to take on a management position. I feel that Balenciaga S.A. would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me by providing the appropriate training."
21. Balenciaga likes to hire go-getters. Have you requested extra responsibilities in any of your previous roles?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have a desire to learn, grow, and try on new challenges! No hiring manager wants to hire the complacent employee so show them you are willing to see opportunity when it arises!
1st Answer Example
"In my current role I asked my boss if I could take over the social media marketing. We are a small company, and my supervisor was struggling with it. Being a millennial, I am always on social media, and I understand what types of posts gain attention. After taking over the task, I grew our Instagram following from just 400 to 2000 in 2 months! I am always game for taking on new tasks, especially when they are in my wheelhouse."
2nd Answer Example
"Your willingness to take on additional tasks, with a positive attitude, gives the interviewer all the more reason to want to get to know you better. Hiring managers are looking for people who will be proactive and help to carry the team.
Here are some ways you can gain extra responsibilities in the workplace:
- Talking to your boss about your career goals and having a conversation about new tasks that may help to get you there.
- Offering to take work off of a colleague's plate, if they seem stressed.
- Studying hard to become an SME (Subject Matter Expert) in software or another topic that your boss would find useful.
- Just jumping in and taking on a new responsibility!"
22. At Balenciaga we are looking for reliable employees. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2, and a note from my Doctor accompanied those. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I cannot recall the exact number, but I think it was around three days total. All absences were excused and with notice."
23. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
How to Answer
A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. If you could do anything over, what would you do, and why?
1st Answer Example
"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to start over in a new direction completely I would likely pursue my Degree in Education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that related to these skills, are very welcome."
2nd Answer Example
"I would take the same direction! I truly love what I do and would never change the course of my career. It's so fulfilling."
24. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"In my most recent position, I was earning below the market average for my position and education level. In my next role, I am targeting a base salary of $89-94K."
25. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that performance incentives are a great idea. They keep an employee motivated to do a great job and ensure that they are on top of their KPI's. The majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes."
2nd Answer Example
"Although performance incentives are not required to motivate me, I do enjoy the healthy competition involved with them."
26. We are asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This question is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have five years' experience vs. eight years' experience I can do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my five years working in this industry, I have worked near it my entire career, and I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
27. If you had $50,000 to build your own business, what would you do?
How to Answer
If money was no object, what kind of business would you start? The interviewer will be able to learn something new and unique about you through this question. Avoid answers that would include building a business that competes with the hiring company.
1st Answer Example
"If I had $50,000 to build my own business I would open up a community center in my neighborhood that offered inexpensive childcare, cooking classes, and other life skills programs. I am passionate about volunteering and see a strong need in those particular areas."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a keen passion for design so I would say that $50,000 would be spent on a new industrial sewing machine, and some great fabrics! I would love to have my small clothing line someday that focus' on environmental sustainability and social responsibility."
28. What unique qualities about yourself would you bring to our company?
How to Answer
There are some things that your resume cannot do. Showing off your fabulous personality is one of them, for instance! Talk to the interviewer about some of your unique qualities and be sure to tie these qualities into how they will benefit the company, should they hire you.
1st Answer Example
"I have a unique ability to strike up a conversation and build rapport with nearly anyone. This ability is a great help when it comes to customer service and sales. My up-selling percentages are always very high."
2nd Answer Example
"I am unique in a variety of ways! My dedication and tenure are rare. I was in my most recent position for eight years and previous to that; 6 years. Also, I speak multiple languages. I am fluent in English, French, and Spanish."
29. Looking at your resume, you've had a number of job changes, what would make me think that you will stay with our company?
How to Answer
Most hiring managers will consider more than two jobs in the past five years to be frequent movement. Take some time to explain your career progression to the interviewer. Be sure to avoid speaking poorly of any of your previous employers. This question is not the time to ramble on about how your former company did you wrong. The only appropriate answer is a short and sweet one.
1st Answer Example
"Leaving Company X was due to a merger, and my role was eliminated. Company Y was a seasonal role, and I am now looking for a new position because my contract with Company Z is complete this March."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been looking for some time now, for a long-term fit. A place that I can call home! I feel that Balenciaga S.A. will be the long-term fit that I have been craving."
30. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
2nd Answer Example
"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
31. We are looking for team players at Balenciaga. What role do you usually take in team projects?
How to Answer
The interviewer truly wants to understand the role that you naturally take on, when put into a team-based environment. If you tend to take the lead, let the interviewer know this, but avoid sounding overbearing. If you usually like to generate new ideas and allow someone else to execute them, share your creative side but express that you prefer for others to take the lead.
1st Answer Example
"I am usually the 'ideas person' in team projects. In my current position, I am not the strongest salesperson, but I am highly creative. This means that, in most projects, I am great at creating a plan of action but am most comfortable passing the final client-facing tasks to our more extroverted personnel."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to take the lead on team projects. I am very vocal and organized which makes me a natural leader. At the same time, I enjoy drawing the leader out in others by asking them for their ideas and encouraging full participation."
32. What qualities do you feel a successful manager should have?
How to Answer
Some great qualities of a manager are:
- Being someone who people naturally want to follow
- Exceptional interpersonal skills
- Strong relationship building skills
- Taking ownership for the team's errors and mistakes
- Excelling at motivating others
- Providing kudos/recognition to your team
- Knowing how to select and hire the right people to join the team
- Having a vision for the future
These are just a few to get started! With which qualities do you most identify?
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that a successful manager will have the ability to motivate their team as a whole, while recognizing their individual achievements. A vision for the future is really important as well. Without a long-range vision, it's difficult to know where to take your team next."
33. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you or a saying that you grew up with that resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is essential to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"My mission is to give my best 100% of the time. It's important to me that I have a great reputation in this industry through hard work and a positive attitude."