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Interview Q&As
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Answer Examples
1.
Judging by your resume, you appear to be overqualified for this position. What would keep you at the Estee Lauder Companies, if you were offered the position?
The concern for the company is that hiring an overqualified individual can mean that they will leave when a better opportunity arises. Talk to the interviewer about why this position with the Estee Lauder Companies would be satisfying for you, long-term.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I do have more years' experience than what you have outlined in your job posting; however, there are aspects of this position that would be new and exciting for me as well. For example, I would enjoy the exposure to more public service and premiere accounts. Despite my level of experience, there would be much for me to learn here at the Estee Lauder Companies, and with your extensive brand portfolio, the opportunities seem nearly endless; my hope is that this position would be the beginning of a long and fulfilling career."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I can see that my most recent job title makes me appear overqualified for this particular position with the Estee Lauder Companies; however, there are many aspects of this position that will represent a strong learning curve for me. In addition, I'm hungry to learn from the very best in the industry, and I'm ready for the challenge that this position would offer me."
2.
What are your career aspirations beyond this job with Estee Lauder Companies?
Everyone has some dream or aspirations on where their career could go. Openly share with the interviewer where you'd like to see your job with EStee Lauder Companies take you. Be sure to include how you feel Estee Lauder Companies would fit in with those specific aspirations.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I have some pretty lofty career goals, and after researching Estee Lauder Companies and its global impact, plus learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits with my future aspirations. I would love to see myself promoted based on my hard work and results, and I love that Estee Lauder Companies nurtures its employee talent with a focus on development and career paths within and across the organization"
Michelle's Answer #2
"This particular position is a goal that I have set my sights on for quite some time. I believe it is the next step in a long and fulfilling career in the beauty industry. The industry leadership that Estee Lauder Companies offers, as well as its mentoring and professional development opportunities, are immense for me, and I feel confident I will gain skills in this role that will make me a successful retailer."
3.
At Estee Lauder Companies we have an important dress code for all employees. How does this fit with your personal style?
Many organizations implement dress codes because they create a sense of unity for the customers. It also helps customers to find you when they need some help in-store. It is okay to ask about the dress code before you agree to it.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"Yes, I'm familiar with the dress code from my experience in several of your branded stores. I understand the importance of clearly identifying employees and also creating a sense of consistency and unity among the team. I'm happy to comply with this requirement - my time at work is about Estee Lauder and its family of brands, not about my personal style."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I can understand why dress codes are important for Estee Lauder Companies and its respective brands. Can you tell me more about the dress code? I am happy to comply with any reasonable requirement when it comes to a dress code or uniform. In fact, in my current position, I wear a uniform, so I am accustomed to this requirement."
4.
Teamwork is important to us at Estee Lauder Companies. Why do you consider yourself a team player?
Working well on a team requires you to have solid interpersonal skills and self-awareness. Share a few of your best qualities that make you a team player.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"In my current role, I occasionally need to spend additional time mentoring and coaching new employees to ensure they fit in with the team. This responsibility creates a tighter timeline for other important deadlines; however, I see that the end goal is to create a well-oiled machine and that cannot happen without everyone being equally trained. I would bring this same commitment to team development to this position at Estee Lauder Companies."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I have always considered myself a team player; I enjoy the interactions and positive energy a team environment creates. My favorite team environment was at my last beauty salon. The energy was incredible, and I believe the customers took notice. I hope to create the same environment here at Estee Lauder Companies."
5.
How would your current or former supervisor describe your work ethic?
This is a chance to offer some real-world examples of when you've gone the extra mile or solved a tricky problem in a previous position. Estee Lauder Companies wants to know it can depend on your to give your very best to the position.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"My current/former boss would describe me as an employee who puts in the time and effort to make sure my work is something the company can be proud of. I pay attention to detail and never leave a task unfinished. I believe I would be described as dependable and committed and would be a tremendous asset to the Estee Lauder Companies team."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I am the type of person who can identify a problem or workplace challenge and put a plan in place to solve it. [Provide your specific example(s) here.] I believe this is why I was promoted so quickly in my previous role, and why I would do well at the Estee Lauder Companies."
6.
At Aveda, we pride ourselves on being nimble and able to adapt to changes within a complex business environment. Tell me about a time when you have had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes.
The interviewer has given you a clue - Estee Lauder Companies wants its employees to be nimble. Assure the interviewer that you can respond professionally when it comes to sudden changes. Be as specific as you can, but below are some examples to guide your thinking:
Rachelle's Answer #1
"In my current role, our sales goals can change frequently based on marketplace behavior or trends, and sometimes this happens at the last minute. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes, and to respond with creativity."
Michelle's Answer #2
"This really speaks to the heart of what it means to be successful in the consumer marketplace. I believe in making sound plans, but also being prepared to abandon those plans based on last-minute changes in circumstances. For example, I may plan to spend an afternoon checking inventory, but if one of my top customers comes into the store with an urgent need, I'll let my plans go in order to help her."
7.
Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity. If you can work in a connection to the beauty industry, that's a plus. Try to always connect back to this opportunity.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"Outside of work I like to attend dance classes and I also attend the odd paint-and-sip wine nights at a local wine shop. I also enjoy reading as a way of nurturing my creative side."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I put creativity into everything that I do. I am really into fashion and design, so I spend a lot of my spare time helping friends to shop for clothes, pick out makeup, and decorate their homes."
8.
At Estee Lauder Companies we always want our customers to feel valued and welcome. If a customer broke a product in-store before purchasing it, what would you do?
The interviewer would like to know that you can handle awkward or uncomfortable customer service situations. Assure the interviewer that you can handle them like a pro!
Rachelle's Answer #1
"If this happened, my first concern would be reinforcing Estee Lauder Companies' (and the particular brand's) customer service reputation and protecting the relationship with this customer. I would make sure the customer wasn't hurt, and I would comfort and assure the customer that no harm was done. If I can make him/her laugh and break the tension, that would be a win. I would then help him/her find the right product, and try to turn the situation into a sale and a happy Estee Lauder Companies customer who walks away feeling good about the brand."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I would make sure to be familiar with Estee Lauder Companies' (and the particular brand's) policies for situations such as a customer breaking a product. Accidents are not uncommon in a retail environment, so I would ensure they are not injured and then safely clean up the mess. Particularly considering the high-touch nature of the Estee Lauder approach, the important thing here is to make sure the customer leaves the store feeling good about the customer service he/she received."
9.
The beauty industry is very competitive. Why do you want to work for Estee Lauder Companies?
Openly discuss with the interviewer why you want to work for Estee Lauder Companies versus its competitors. What does it stand for that meshes with who you are and the career you desire?Keep your answer brief, and positive.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I want to work for Estee Lauder Companies because it represents the absolute pinnacle of the luxury beauty industry. I have personally enjoyed your products for years, as have many members of my family. From a business perspective, I appreciate that you have a growing portfolio of coveted brands, and that you create and market the highest quality products. I want to be a part of that."
Michelle's Answer #2
"In a competitive industry, I want to work for the best. In addition to being the top in your market space, I also appreciate your commitment to your talented employees - the company openly espouses diversity of thought and people, and encourages creativity, innovation and integrity in your team members. That's exactly the kind of environment I'm looking for in order to grow."
10.
Are you applying for any other jobs?
The interviewer is looking for answers to a few points when asking this question.
1. Estee Lauder Companies wants to know what kind of timeline is present before you are scooped up by another organization.
2. The interviewer wants to know how discerning you are with your job applications.
3. They want to know the types of roles that interest you.
4. They want to hear that they are your top choice.
You can certainly discuss your search but avoid giving too many details. Give the interviewer enough to satisfy the question without revealing your entire search.
1. Estee Lauder Companies wants to know what kind of timeline is present before you are scooped up by another organization.
2. The interviewer wants to know how discerning you are with your job applications.
3. They want to know the types of roles that interest you.
4. They want to hear that they are your top choice.
You can certainly discuss your search but avoid giving too many details. Give the interviewer enough to satisfy the question without revealing your entire search.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I recently started my search and have found several interesting opportunities related to my skills, interests and experience; however, this role with Estee Lauder Companies is the position I am most enthusiastic about."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position. I believe this role with Estee Lauder Companies is the best fit for me."
11.
If you were the successful candidate, how much notice would you require to give your current employer before beginning with Estee Lauder Companies?
The interviewer would like to know if you plan to give notice to your current employer, or if you can start with Estee Lauder Companies right away. It is always a good decision to show the potential employer that you would provide the professional courtesy of notice to your current place of employment.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I would like to give my current employer the professional courtesy of 2 weeks' notice. I can begin this new role with Estee Lauder Companies immediately after that."
Michelle's Answer #2
"If you have a vacation booked, this is the perfect time to discuss that as well. "I am on vacation until December 27 and can start with Estee Lauder Companies immediately after that."
12.
How do you feel about Estee Lauder Companies' performance incentives?
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings regarding performance incentives.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"I feel that performance incentives are an effective strategy. They keep an employee driven to do a stellar job and ensure that they are on top of their KPIs. In my experience, the majority of people are enthusiastic about being rewarded for their successes, and I personally find performance incentives highly motivating."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I think performance incentives are important for encouraging team members to focus on results. For me, as a manager, I feel incentives give me some skin in the game and get my team engaged in making an impact toward the company's desired results."
13.
We pride ourselves at Estee Lauder Companies on being competitive in the employee marketplace. Tell me a little about your salary and benefits expectations.
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.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"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 gain a slight increase. According to my research, this seems consistent with the market."
Michelle's Answer #2
"I would like to earn slightly above where I am now. Currently, I make $25/hour plus benefits and a 10% commission on all sales. My target income for the coming year is $65,000. If that is out-of-range for this position, I would hope we could discuss alternative benefits and/or a path to reach that salary goal."
14.
At Estee Lauder Companies, we want to make sure we are the right fit for our employees. Describe to me your ideal employer.
Tell the interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"My ideal employer is one that is mission-based and focused on excellence, and that acts with integrity and a higher purpose. That's why Estee Lauder Companies is such a good fit for me; with its commitment to achievement, high-touch customer experiences and global impact, I know I can find a connection with my own values and purpose."
Michelle's Answer #2
"In the day-to-day, my ideal employer/supervisor is one who allows me to take the reins when it comes to problem-solving. I like to be hands-on and prefer to work for people who value this in me. My ideal supervisor might let me struggle a bit with a problem before just jumping in and showing me the answer."
15.
Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on honesty in the workplace.
Rachelle's Answer #1
"'Always' can be dangerous. For the most part, yes, but I will acknowledge that some circumstances are complicated. Be assured that I am a very honest person and would always strive to act with the best interests of Estee Lauder Companies in mind."
Michelle's Answer #2
"For the most part, I do believe that honesty is the best policy. Often, it is just a matter of how you communicate and deliver your message."
More Interview Q&As
Explore expert tips and resources to be more confident in your next interview.
Behavioral
Common
Phone
Tough
Leadership
All Interview Topics
All Career Q&As
Suggested Career
Interview Q&As
Interview Q&As
Continue practicing by visiting these similar question sets
Hair Stylist
Cosmetologist
Massage Therapist
Customer Service
Manager