We value creativity and innovation. If hired, how will you bring those skills to the team?

"I respect processes in the workplace, however, I am not afraid to share ideas and suggestions with my team members and manager if I feel like it will help improve our processes and be more efficient. I enjoy a good challenge and using my problem-solving skills on problems big and small. If I'm tasked with a project, I spend a good amount of time brainstorming and coming up with various ideas. Creativity is all about keeping an open mind and considering various possibilities. I draw inspiration from colleagues and customers, always keeping others' perspectives in mind as I come up with possible solutions to problems."

Two of Estee Lauder's core values are creativity and innovation; "inventing the future of beauty from product development to packaging, sampling to selling, marketing to merchandising, to meet the evolving needs of consumers." It will be important to be prepared to answer this question with specific ways or examples of how you will bring creativity and innovation to the team, no matter the role you are applying for.

"I am a creative thinker and I'm not intimidated by the possibility of failure. I'm motivated to find new ways to succeed in meeting and exceeding goals in the workplace. I collaborate with others on my team to better understand their challenges, perspectives, and input and I use that information to help brainstorm and come up with new ideas that would improve our workflows. I'm not afraid to challenge, in a professional manner of course, the idea that something has always been done a certain way so it should be left alone. The industry is constantly evolving, and that means processes and practices need to as well. I challenge conforming to provide fresh and diverse perspectives to help promote efficiency and improved processes."

"I’ve recently published a poetry collection and have a thriving monthly newsletter with over 50 recipients. So, I have lots of creativity and will transfer the skills I’ve learned in practicing writing to a marketing role. For example, one of the key ways to excel in writing is to read other people’s work and then create something of your own inspired by that work. In a marketing role I can bring astute attention to marketing trends and extrapolate what I have learned onto marketing strategies I create for Estée Lauder."

Teamwork is important to us. Why do you consider yourself a team player?

"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."

Organizations like Estee Lauder promote collaboration to maximize collective strengths. You'll likely be working alongside a diverse group of professionals, working together to achieve common goals, so teamwork is critical. Describe ways that you promote teamwork and collaboration in the workplace. 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 solid team player.

"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."

"I consider myself a team player because I work well in a team under stressful circumstances. While studying as an undergraduate and postgraduate, I worked part-time as a carer for the elderly, for up to five years now. Much of this took place during the Covid pandemic. We negotiate tasks between us each day, so clients’ physical and mental health needs are attended to and unnecessary illnesses and injuries are avoided."

Judging by your resume, you appear to be overqualified for this position. What would keep you at Estee Lauder, if you were offered the position?

"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 Estee Lauder, 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."

This can be a rather rare situation, but in case you are over-qualified for this position, we have included this question in our Estee Lauder set. The concern for the company is that hiring an overqualified individual can mean that they will leave when a better opportunity arises. It's okay to acknowledge that you exceed the minimum qualifications, but perhaps it's a new industry for you, looking for a better work-life balance, or you're making a career change. Whatever the reason, talk to the interviewer about why this position would be satisfying for you, long-term.

"I can see that my most recent job title makes me appear overqualified for this particular position with Estee Lauder; 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."

"While the minimum qualification requirements are a C or above in Maths and English GCSEs, I have an undergraduate degree and a pending master's degree. I am happy to acknowledge this because I know despite my education, I lack the experience that working at Estée Lauder can provide. Estée Lauder also has a favorable work environment, which is why details of it have been featured in Vogue Magazine. These aspects are why I would stay to work at Estée Lauder."

We prefer to hire those with formal training in beauty, makeup, or other related fields. Walk me through your relative training.

"I attended CMC Makeup School in Texas. My specialty was SPFX makeup and body painting. This unique focus gives me an edge in the market because my creativity is tapped hugely. Also, CMC is one of the top beauty schools in the U.S., so you can be assured that I come well-trained and could be a tremendous asset to the Estee Lauder family of brands."

Your beauty-related training may include formal courses or on-the-job training. Likely this training is already listed on your resume; however, the interviewer would like for you to go into further detail. Be sure to express how your education will benefit Estee Lauder, should you be hired.

"I do not have formal training in makeup and beauty; however, since I was a young teen, I've watched and tried online beauty tutorials for hours a week, many of them from Estee Lauder brands. The beauty industry is a passion of mine that I have immersed myself in for years, so I do consider myself well-trained and up-to-date on trends and techniques. I would look forward to the opportunity to prove my skills to your team."

"I don’t have any formal training in makeup and beauty but I keep up to date with products and techniques by being active on social media and media-sharing platforms, like Instagram and YouTube. Also, I have a degree in English with Creative Writing and I’m about to graduate with a postgraduate degree in Creative Writing too. So, I’ve been trained on how to let the requirements of a task dictate how I write and work on projects throughout my university education, which is essential for any marketing role."

The hours at Estee Lauder can include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Do you have a flexible schedule?

"I do not have any restrictions in my schedule. I am happy to accept any hours and would appreciate any overtime as well. Can I ask, how far in advance is the schedule usually communicated to staff?"

The job description should specify the scheduling requirements of the position and being a position in retail may mean various shifts and hours. If you have questions about the schedule commitments, now is an appropriate time to ask. If their schedule expectations won't work for you, consider what you CAN offer and see if you can find a schedule pattern that works for both you and the organization.

"I have school on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-4. I can work any other day or shift, though, and would be happy to work out a mutually beneficial schedule with my supervisor!"

"I don’t have any schedule restrictions and would be happy to work any hours Estée Lauder requires of me."

We pride ourselves on being competitive in the employee marketplace. Tell me a little about your salary and benefits expectations.

"Given my five years of experience in sales plus my formal education in marketing, I'm looking to earn a minimum base of $50,000 with an additional commission package. However, 401k and employee discounts are also important to me and aspects I would consider when evaluating compensation packages."

Provide the interviewer with a target range you would like your salary to fall within, given your education, experience, and the position you are applying for. By providing a range, you are demonstrating flexibility while also voicing what you feel your value is. If benefits like medical insurance, 401k, employee discounts, or tuition reimbursement are important to you, mention that the total benefits package would also impact your decision when evaluating a total compensation package.

"In order to make a move from my current company, I would need to land between $65,000-$70,000 base and ideally I would like to have earning potential with bonuses to hit $80,000/year. From the job posting, it looks like my expectations would fall within the salary range for this role."

"I don’t have much experience within the industry. So, my salary expectations would be the hourly rate for a beginner and preferably the London Living Wage, since the role is situated in London and that was advertised in the job advert."

What are your career aspirations beyond this job?

"I have some pretty lofty career goals, and after researching Estee Lauder 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 your company nurtures its employee talent with a focus on development and career paths within and across the organization"

The interviewer wants to understand your ambitions and desired career growth and trajectory better. Respond with the ways that you would like to see your career flourish within Estee Lauder. If you aren't interested in eventually pursuing a management role, speak to how you want to grow and expand other skill sets or continue your education. If you have researched a specific career path or are interested in a particular leadership role, express that area of interest in your response.

"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 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."

"I would love to work for Estée Lauder long-term and eventually work to obtain a managerial position through my efforts. I’m particularly interested in the marketing aspect of the company. Therefore, I would to see myself flourish in this field."

What are some ways you deliver excellent customer service?

"I am attentive to customers. I actively listen and ask questions so I can better understand how I can help them, whether that be finding the right product or making recommendations based on their beauty goals. I never rush or pressure a customer into a sale, but rather I am patient and ensure I answer all of their questions so they can make the best decision for themselves. If a customer has a question that I can't answer, I never make something up on the fly, instead, I quickly research it or find a colleague who can help. I want every customer to feel valued and welcome in our store and I make every effort to deliver top-notch customer service with every interaction."

The Estee Lauder website lists unwavering commitment to quality and excellence (in-person and online experiences) as a core value, so it's likely a question about your customer service skills will arise. Be prepared to describe ways that you ensure customers have a positive experience whether they are calling customer service, visiting a brick-and-mortar store, or using online services. Avoid giving a generic answer and provide specific techniques or strategies that will transfer well in this role.

"I strive to be as knowledgeable as possible about the products and services my company sells. By doing so, I'm prepared to help customers find the products they need, make recommendations to them based on their needs and goals, and answer any questions they have. I focus my attention on the customer I'm with and I make every effort to ensure they feel like they are important and appreciated as a customer. If a customer has a bad attitude or acts rudely, I do not take it personally and I remain professional in positive in my interactions. My goal is for every customer to have a positive experience with us."

"While I worked in retail, I did my best to be an approachable friendly face and be understanding of any queries or confusion customers might have. I took my time to explain company policies to customers and asked them about their experience browsing the shop after they had finished to show I cared about their experiences and input."

We seek to hire those who have a true passion for the beauty industry. How do you stay up to date on industry trends?

"I have a keen interest in the beauty industry. Some of the ways that I stay in touch with industry trends is by following some of the Estee Lauder brands, like Mac and Aveda, on social media and also regularly reading The Beauty Blog. I also follow a few Instagram accounts of beauty experts [name them]."

Assure the interviewer that you have a genuine interest in this industry. Perhaps you follow a few beauty bloggers? Maybe you read specific magazines, or follow Estee Lauder brands on social media for updates on new and unique products. Keep your answer brief and informative.

"I stay up to date on industry trends through reading books, and following industry leaders and influencers on social media. Also, I have a mentor who has been in the beauty industry for quite some time. I meet with her monthly and she helps me to stay up to date on new happenings in the industry. She tells me about new trends and products that are hitting the market."

"I stay up to date on industry trends by being an avid user of social media and media-sharing platforms, like Instagram and YouTube. I follow content creators like Mina Le and Jackie Aina. I often read beauty-related articles online from Vogue or Cosmopolitan to find out the latest beauty secrets of celebrities like Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle."

When working remotely, how do you limit distractions?

"I have a designated workspace set up in my home for when I work remotely. As far as when I'm on my laptop, I designate time each week as 'focus time' and during this time, I mark myself as do not disturb on Teams and I exit my email. I notify my manager each week of these blocks of time so she knows to text me if anything urgent comes up will I'm in these periods of focus offline."

Remote positions are pretty common, however, companies still want to know that employees can be focused and productive at home. The interviewer wants to make sure that you can reduce distractions and be effective at getting the job done, no matter the environment. Describe your home office setup and focus specifically on how you stay focused and tasks.

"I have a designated workspace at home that is distraction free from family and pets. During my workday, my family limits disruptions, so that I can remain focused. I use a noise-canceling headset and I typically keep my personal cell phone on silent and only check it during my designated breaks. If there are projects I need to focus on, I will let my team members know that I will be on do not disturb on teams and will get back to them at the end of my distraction-free period."

"If I’m working remotely, I limit distractions by staying in a designated work space within my home. I will dedicate set hours of the day to my work and organize breaks to prevent fatigue and failures in my ability to concentrate as a result."

How would you handle a customer objection to buying a product?

"I always try to understand the real issue and then go from there. It's important to ask questions and gather feedback during the conversation so you're prepared for objections. If the price point is too high, I ask them to share what their budget is so I can help make alternative recommendations in their price range. I might also acknowledge that the price point is high, but educate them on how long the product might last. For example, if the product is $100 but lasts for three months, that might change their mind. Ultimately, I never want to be pushy or obnoxious, so if I can answer their questions and they still do not want to buy, I respect their decision and welcome them back in the future. This usually helps build a trusting relationship and they are likely to return when they are ready to make a purchase."

The interviewer wants to better understand your knowledge and experience with sales techniques. Objections are a natural part of the sales process, but it's important to demonstrate that you're comfortable addressing them. Focus on how you prepare for objections and what strategies you find success when navigating a customer with hesitations or concerns about making a purchase. Consider discussing your listening skills, ability to communicate effectively by asking questions, making suggestions or recommendations, displaying empathy, patience, and understanding, and focusing on the root cause of the objection.

"I like to focus on building a trusting relationship early on in the customer interaction. It is important that you pay attention and listen to your customers very early on. I try to be proactive and ask questions initially that will help me understand their needs and prepare for objections. I also share my experience in the beauty industry, as that promotes trust and confidence. If a customer objects, I focus on the root cause and then ensure they have the information they need to make a decision. Perhaps a customer is hesitant to make a large purchase on skincare products because they have used a specific product for several years. That is understandable, so I first express my understanding of their worries but then reassure them that we have a generous return policy so they can try it and bring it back and find something else if it's not for them. I'm always patient during the process and provide them time to think about it or ask questions."

"To handle a customer objection to a product I would ask the customer a series of questions to understand where their objections stem from. After finding this out, I can then point the customer in the direction of products that better suit their needs."

Tell me about a technique you would use to sell to a customer.

"I often find that being personable and patient is an effective strategy. Being pushy, aggressive, and pressuring customers typically does not result in a sale and if it does, it's likely they change their mind and return the item. I'm always well-dressed and presentable and knowledgeable about the products in my department. I focus on understanding the customer's needs by asking questions and actively listening. I spend time with them helping them use testers and samples that we have in stock, that way they can try the products and make sure it's something they like and will use. If we have promotional sales, I will of course share that information with customers as well."

Depending on the position you've applied for, you may be responsible for meeting sales goals. If you have beauty-industry-related experience, share a technique that you've found successful. If you have sales experience in another industry, share strategies and skills that would transfer well into this role. Be sure to infuse your communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills into your response.

"I am an expert makeup artist and I've found that my skills and experience help increase sales. Oftentimes, a customer comes in having seen a product on social media. I help them find and sample that product if it's available to try, and I use their feedback to help guide my strategy. If they are not happy with the product, I will make other recommendations based on their style, skin type, skill level, etc. Sometimes, I offer mini makeovers and customers will be so happy with the way they look, that they will buy the products I used on them. If they like that product, I usually suggest add-on items that people who like that original item tend to purchase."

"As well as being well-dressed and presentable, I make sure I am a friendly and approachable face for customers. It’s important to not be pushy and allow customers to try out the sample products for themselves. If I use any of the products they are interested in, I can share my enthusiasm for the product with the customer and state how and when I use this product to come across as genuine and helpful."

Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?

"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."

This question allows the interviewer to learn more about your personal interests and hobbies and how you balance work and life. Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity; perhaps you like to bake or design cakes, paint, journal, dance, dawn, explore new places, etc. If you can work in a connection to the beauty industry, that's an added bonus.

"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."

"Outside of work, I focus on promoting my recently published book online, mainly through Instagram. There are group chats with other authors I am a part of and we all work together to promote each other’s work on Instagram. I also have a monthly newsletter for my book, with over 50 recipients. So, I spend a lot of time working on content to put into the newsletter."

If we made you an offer, how soon would you be available to start?

"I would like to give my current employer the professional courtesy of 2 weeks' notice. I can begin this new role with Estee Lauder immediately after that."

The interviewer would like to know how soon you would be available to start the position if they made you an offer. If you're currently employed, it's okay to share that you'd like to give your employer a notice period. If you're flexible and can work some hours outside of your current job schedule and notice period, share that with the interviewer. It's appropriate for you to ask how soon they are looking for someone to start, that way you have a better understanding of their expectations and can see if you can come up with a solution that works for you and the organization.

"I am on vacation until December 27 and can start with Estee Lauder immediately after that."

"I work in the Social Care industry, with elderly clients. So, the notice I have to give my workplace is longer than usual. After four weeks I would be able to start at Estée Lauder."

Are you applying for any other jobs?

"I recently started my search and have found several interesting opportunities related to my skills, interests, and experience; however, this role with Estee Lauder is the position I am most interested in."

The interviewer is looking for answers to a few points when asking this question. 1. Estee Lauder 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.

"I have been actively job searching but have applied to only a handful of companies. I'm very intentional in my current search as I look for a reputable and leading beauty company to join that also aligns with my values. Estee Lauder is my preferred employer of choice and I'm very interested in this opportunity."

"Yes, I’m actively searching for jobs but Estée Lauder is the company I’m most interested in working for. The jobs I’m interested in all fall within the marketing category."

We put a lot of effort into our branding. In your opinion, how do we stand out from our competitors?

"The Estee Lauder brand is all about luxury - it's the pinnacle of the beauty industry. In fact, you are the global leader in prestige beauty. In my experience, Estee Lauder represents the creme de la creme of beauty products. You separate yourselves from many other beauty brands, particularly through your high-touch philosophy, which marries well with the luxury clientele you serve."

Since you are applying to work for Estee Lauder, chances are, you enjoy their products and services! Take this as an opportunity to compliment them on what they are doing right! Research their website for any recent news, accolades, or product launches. Be sure to comment on your findings.

"Your culture has been described as a rare mix of family values with a high-performing public company. Estee Lauder has a long history and compelling brand story, with a focus on the kind of high-touch experience that develops strong emotional connections with the brand and its products. Because of its history of excellence, many new Estee Lauder users are third- and fourth-generation customers. It's the kind of prestige that's passed down in families."

"Estée Lauder stands out from competitors by being a beauty brand with prestige. Estée Lauder’s products are often used by each generation within a family, including my own, making it a tried and tested brand. In other words, it is a reliable brand. Estée Lauder was also an early pioneer of diversity in the products it offered, providing makeup for all skin tones, which is important to me as an individual with dark skin."

What do you know about Estee Lauder?

"I know that Estee Lauder is a global leader in the beauty industry. Your portfolio contains makeup, skincare, fragrance, and hair care products that are sold in 150 countries. That is really impressive! I've used Clinique products since I was a teenager and I know the high-quality products that Estee Lauder Companies provides for customers. I'm most impressed by your reputation and stability in the industry and the fact that you employ over 60,000 people worldwide. I'm excited to learn more about the company!"

The interview wants to see if you've taken the time to research the company and learn more about why they do what they do, their mission, and their core values. Demonstrate that you're being intentional about applying to organizations you're interested in and not just any job that's posted. Take the time to speak about what you've read about Estee Lauder, its leadership team, its mission, what they value, and their products. Perhaps you know someone who works there, or maybe you've been a customer before. If so, share that experience! Also, being able to speak to any specific awards or achievements Estee Lauder has earned is an added bonus!

"Estee Lauder is a global leader in beauty products with sales in 150 countries! During my job search, I was carefully researching your company and competitors and was really impressed to see that your CEO has an 86% approval rating on Comparably! From reading many employee reviews, it sounds like the culture and diversity also have earned A+ ratings. I'm really excited to learn more about the business!"

"I know Estée Lauder has been around for decades, since the 1960s. I’m aware the company was founded by a lady harboring the same name and her husband, who harbored inclusive opinions on beauty. For example, she said, “Every woman can be beautiful.” I understand that Estée Lauder is still a family-run business so they take pride in makeup used by several generations within a family and that the company prides itself on being a luxury brand."

We put great effort into being the best in our industry. In your opinion, what can we do to remain competitive?

"The beauty industry is quite competitive, but Estee Lauder, fortunately, enjoys the position of having a diverse group of brands as part of its portfolio; I'd say your number one task for staying on top of your field is continuous improvement and competitive landscape scanning. Always looking for ways to improve the company's products and processes, while at the same time staying up-to-speed on what competitors are doing so that you make sure to stay one step ahead."

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The interviewer would like to learn more about your industry knowledge and your knowledge about Estee Lauder in particular. Be sure to keep your reply upbeat, non-critical, and finish with a positive remark. Provide your personal opinion on what you feel Estee Lauder Companies can do to remain competitive in the market.

"I appreciate the fact that this is an important question - while Estee Lauder's family of brands enjoys tremendous success and recognition in the beauty industry, it's important to keep striving for improvement and to better meet customer needs. One of the most important things Estee Lauder Companies can do along these lines is to keep engaging its customers - survey them, talk to them, engage them in brand ambassadorship so that those who are close to and love your brands can have a direct line to let you know what they need next."

"To remain competitive, it’s important to listen to the opinions of consumers. This means having a focus on aspects such as social media engagement, brand ambassadorship, surveys, and product reviews. It’s also important to diversify the products available to suit a diverse range of consumers."

Name your favourite Estee Lauder product and why it's your favorite.

"This is tough, because you have some of the best beauty brands in the business as part of your portfolio. Overall, I'm a big fan of MAC products, and I got my makeup start with Clinique, so that brand has a lot of nostalgic value for me. If I had to pick one superstar product right now, I'd choose the classic Estee Lauder brand advanced eye repair night eye serum. It's kind of a miracle product!"

Researching Estee Lauder before your interview is incredibly important as you want to be prepared for questions such as this. The last thing that the interviewer wants to hear is that you have never used the company's products or services. Assure the interviewer that you have a personal interest in their product line. If you don't currently use any of their products, discuss which products you are interested in trying in the future.

"I have heard many great things about Product ABC and saw from your website that it is a best seller. I look forward to giving it a shot!"

"My favorite Estée Lauder product is the Double-Wear liquid foundation because of the full coverage it provides and its ability to meter the sheen that accumulates on my face throughout a busy day. There is no foundation I trust more than Double-Wear."

The beauty industry is very competitive. Why do you want to work for us?

"I want to work for Estee Lauder 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."

Openly discuss with the interviewer why you want to work for Estee Lauder versus its competitors. Consider their reputation, mission, values, and products and how those aspects align with your career goals. Now is a great time to highlight what you know about their organization that makes them a preferred employer for you.

"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."

"I want to work for Estée Lauder because it presents itself as a luxury brand that is fashionable for all generations. This is appealing to me because I’ve always been interested in beauty and fashion that is trendy irrespective of the time or place."

We are a global corporation with brands and employees all over the world. What is your experience working with a diverse group of people?

"The global nature of the Estee Lauder business is one that I'm most excited about. I'm accustomed to being around people who aren't exactly like me, and I've been able to learn from exposure to a lot of different perspectives. However, I believe that truly being part of the global economy will be a life-changing experience that I will relish."

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important to this company. According to their website, they strive to "cultivate a community-driven inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace reflects our belief that no one person, group or culture has all the knowledge or skills necessary for success. Embracing diversity helps sharpen our focus on cultural relevance and respect -- ensuring that our products, messaging, and in-store and online experiences reflect the aspirations and desires of new and loyal consumers." Knowing the value that Estee Lauder Companies places on diversity and inclusion, discuss your experience working with others who are different than you, whether that be colleagues or customers. Also, discuss the value you see in working as part of a diverse team or serving a diverse customer base.

"In my current company, we have a very diverse group of people that range in age, race, experience, gender and more. I embrace it fully, and the commitment to all types of beauty, no matter what it looks like or where it's from, is one of my favorite aspects of the Estee Lauder family of brands."

"I currently work for an employer that has a diverse set of colleagues. This is important, so a company can cater to a diverse range of people from different backgrounds. A well-rounded idea of how to cater to consumers can only exist with a diverse workforce."

Tell me about your most recent visit to one of our branded stores. What was your experience like?

"I can tell that your customer service employees receive a great deal of training in the Estee Lauder high-touch approach. I've always had a positive customer experience at any of your brands' stores. My last visit, I was having trouble finding a specific product. As soon as I came across a customer service employee, they knew what I was looking for and found it for me right away. I was impressed with how knowledgeable and friendly she was, and I would hope to emulate that, should I be hired."

The interviewer is curious about whether or not you've shopped with one of their branded stores before (MAC, Jo Malone London, Aveda). If you haven't, consider entering one of their stores and browsing or making a purchase before your interview. Be sure to take note of the store's cleanliness, if staff greet you or offer to help assist you, and if the products you are interested in are in stock. Provide a brief overview of your customer service experience with them and keep your response positive and upbeat!

"During my last visit to an Estee Lauder brand store, I made a huge purchase. Once I arrived home, I realized that I had grabbed the wrong shade of one of my favorite products. It was no problem for me to make the exchange later that week. Your staff was warm and accommodating, and that made me want to continue shopping that particular brand."

"During my last visit, I found the employees of the store accommodating and stylish. I also felt they had a deep appreciation for the brand and were most likely wearing Estée Lauder products, whether that was a fragrance or makeup. I marveled at the matching packaging of all the products and felt none of them would look out of place on a dressing table and easily match the decor of my bedroom."

Tell me about a time when you had to step in and be a leader.

"My manager went out on leave unexpectedly, and they asked me to be the backup until she returned. I jumped in and began taking over tasks that she normally did daily and reassured the team that I was there to support them during that time. It was challenging to manage my workload while covering his, but I enjoyed the experience and learned a lot in the process."

All companies value leadership qualities in their employees, not just current managers. Think about a time you were suddenly asked to step in and cover in a leadership capacity. This could be in the workplace, in a volunteer role, on a sports team, or school project. Share the situation in which you were leading, discuss what you enjoyed about the experience, and any positive outcomes that were a result of your leadership.

"I was part of a local volunteer group that planned fundraising events for our community children's home. Aside from our leader, I was the volunteer with the most seniority. In the middle of our busiest season, he resigned from his position and there was no backup person. I quickly volunteered to step in and lead the group of volunteers so there would be no negative impact on the fundraiser. I relied on my previous experience and the efforts of the team and I was able to keep things organized and moving in the right direction until they found a replacement. I feel I have qualities that would make me a good leader. I am an active listener, I'm an extrovert, I'm an effective communicator and I'm able to motivate others and bring people together to achieve common goals. These are all skills I would bring to Estee Lauder if offered the position."

"I recently worked as the marketing strategist for a local literary festival. I hosted two events, one of which was an Open Mic Poetry Night. I was also in charge of monitoring pre-event sign-ups for performances on the night and noticed that there was a startling lack of sign-ups the day before, meaning the audience potentially might have to go home early. I took the initiative, despite the Event Organiser not being role, and colluded with another Marketing Strategist to book a musical performance at the end of the poetry performances, so audience members would not go home early."

How would you respond if a customer asked you a question that you didn’t know the answer to?

"Working in the physical retail store, I often get questions from customers related to another department that I'm unfamiliar with. Even if I'm in the middle of something when they approach me, I always stop what I'm doing, greet them with a smile, and take time to actively listen to their question. If I can assist them, I will walk them to the item they are trying to find. If I can't, I will try to look up the information on my handheld device or page another employee who can better assist them. I always wait until that employee comes and takes over before excusing myself."

Estee Lauder offers a wide range of products, so you will likely run into a situation where you're unsure how to answer a customer. The interviewer wants to discover more about how you would react under pressure and when you lack the knowledge necessary to answer a question. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you can acknowledge when you don't know something instead of making it up on the fly and commit to finding that answer and following up with the customer timely. Give an example of how you self-help and track down information or how you've found the appropriate person to ask. Telling a customer, "I don't know," or "that's not my department," is never appropriate, and the interviewer wants to learn more about your customer service skills and problem-solving approach.

"As a newer employee, I would have a lot to learn, so I'm sure I will run into a situation where I cannot immediately answer a customer's question. I would be honest with the customer and let them know I would research the answer and get back to them shortly. I would never make up an answer and would try to self-help with my available resources, and if I could not locate the answer timely, I would reach out to a colleague or manager to assist."

"If I don’t know the answer, I can always utilize a handheld device to look up information or ask for advice from a colleague or senior member of staff. Customers are understanding if they sense a genuine urge to help from me and a willingness to solve the puzzle they’ve put before me."

How would you handle a situation where your supervisor did not properly communicate information to you?

"I know supervisors are busy managing a lot of people and tasks, so I never take it personally. I will usually check with a colleague to see if they have the missing information or could help guide me in the right direction. I will try to self-help and refer to other emails and communications to see if that will help me gather the information I need. If that is not effective, I will reach out to my supervisor and ask clarifying questions to help me better understand."

There may be times a supervisor doesn't communicate all necessary information or updates to team members. Talk about a time that you experienced this situation, what the impact was, and how you overcame the challenge. Refrain from speaking negatively about a former or current supervisor, and instead focus on how you took the initiative to gather the correct or missing information.

"I try to be independent and find as many answers as possible on my own. As much as I would love to always work with supervisors who are great communicators, that is not always a realistic ask. I also try to repeat instructions just to verify that I'm hearing and interpreting what the supervisor really wants."

"I try to be independent and observe how other employees are carrying out work. If I am completely lost, there is no harm in asking a colleague or as a very last resort, since managers are busy, asking the manager for information once more. This is a better alternative to carrying out a task."

We pride ourselves on being resourceful. When have you been able to resolve a problem in your workplace?

"In my most recent position we had a consistent problem with employees showing up late for their shifts or calling in sick at the last minute. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style, I decided to track the results of an accountability reward system. For 180 days, my employees received a reward for coming to work 10 minutes early. Also, for every month with zero sick days, a bonus was added. In the end, we awarded those with perfect attendance a $600 bonus. The bonuses cost us less money than the cost of lowered productivity due to absent employees. The program was a success, and upper management chose to keep it implemented for another six months. We will re-assess in December, but it seems to be working very well. If I were to be hired, I'd bring that same sense of problem-solving and positive reinforcement to the Estee Lauder team."

Estee Lauder Companies boasts a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and accountability, so you're likely to encounter a question regarding your ability to problem-solve and be creative. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to think outside the box, collaborate with others, and take ownership of the problem-solving process. Share with the interviewer a time you resolved a problem at work, how you approached it, and the outcome.

"Currently as assistant manager, I resolve problems on a daily basis. The most recent resolution process I was a part of included a customer complaint about an allergic reaction to one of our products. I was able to resolve her concern by listening to her, apologizing, issuing a refund, and offering a replacement product. I am no stranger to dispute resolution, problem-solving, and creative customer service, and I believe my approach would be in-line with the high-touch approach Estee Lauder Companies espouses."

"I work as a carer in a specialist unit care home, mostly for the elderly with complex mental health needs. Sometimes residents can have high-stress meltdowns and attack other residents or staff as a result. It’s important to use a calm voice to help the situation, offer solutions to the resident’s perceived issues, and present oneself as an ally. The resident could have severe dementia and not remember why they are in the home so I could mention how I had a nice chat with their daughter the other day to present myself as a friend, for example."

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?

"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."

The interviewer would like to know that you can handle awkward or uncomfortable customer service situations in a professional manner. Share that you would familiarize yourself with the company policy for this type of situation. Also, focus on how you would address the customer, and use your interpersonal and communication skills to reassure them that accidents happen. The end goal is to make sure that they have a positive customer experience.

"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."

"I would make sure the customer understands that they are not in any trouble and are always welcome back in Estée Lauder shops. I would ask if they are ok and check they have not sustained any injuries e.g. from broken glass. The idea is to make sure I come across as accommodating as possible."

What would you do if you caught a coworker stealing?

"If I caught an employee stealing, I would report the incident to my supervisor immediately. I am a very honest and ethical person and take theft seriously. If it were my company, I would expect my employees to report this type of situation immediately. I know how much damage employee theft can cause for the organization and I would do all that I could to prevent and report it."

This question allows the interviewer to discover more about your character. It's not uncommon for ethical dilemmas like this to come up from time to time, so speak openly about any relevant experiences you've had dealing with this type of situation. If you haven't been faced with this situation, walk the interviewer through how you would handle this in a hypothetical way. Think carefully about your answer, as it will leave a lasting impression. Demonstrate your ability to follow a company policy for this type of issue and your commitment to honesty, integrity, and loyalty.

"I'm sure your company has an internal policy for this type of situation, and I would be sure to adhere to that policy. If I was certain the coworker was stealing, I would report it to my supervisor and fill out any statements required. If I had a suspicion of a coworker, I would try to approach them in a non-confrontational way, reiterating that the company doesn't tolerate theft and trying to understand what was happening."

"In short, I would report such actions to a supervisor, while remaining non-judgemental and not spreading unnecessary gossip. It’s important to maintain a positive work culture, so I would bear that in mind also."

Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you handle the situation?

"My job is fast-paced, and it's not uncommon to have multiple projects with conflicting priority levels. Typically, I plan my week out, prioritize, and create time blocks to ensure I have time to do certain tasks without interruption. As soon as I feel overwhelmed or fall behind, I meet with my manager to communicate my concerns. We discuss the current projects, and I get their feedback on priority and see if other team members can support some of the work."

This question is designed to understand your ability to prioritize, organize and time manage your projects/assignments. Your answer also provides insight into your decision-making skills and how you react under pressure. Be clear and concise when giving your answer, and be sure not to be negative or complain about colleagues or your manager in the response. Use this opportunity to highlight your ability to multi-task and explain your techniques for staying organized and setting realistic expectations. You can also focus on how you may have gotten other team members involved and delegated tasks to be more effective. Use this opportunity to showcase your communication skills!

"We were short-staffed last month and we were down two people on the team. I worked several hours of overtime to try and help the team keep up with the work until we hired new team members, but it still wasn't enough. I requested to meet with my manager every day at 4:30 pm, and we would discuss the day's tasks, what didn't get completed, and what was a priority for the next day. We worked closely to ensure we were on the same page as to what the focus was and we set realistic expectations around what could be accomplished in a day being so short-staffed. I took on what I could and then made recommendations on how the other tasks could be delegated and prioritized. It was important to remain calm and not get stressed out by the chaos and to focus on one task and one day at a time. This was an effective strategy."

"During the literary festival I had a hand in marketing for, we were behind and had very little time for PR. My colleagues and I spoke to supervisors about what to prioritise and reorganised who would be doing specific tasks depending on the free time each colleague had."

We take customer service very seriously at Estee Lauder. If a customer wanted to return a makeup product that had been significantly used, what would you do?

"I agree that customer service is paramount, and I would make sure to familiarize myself with all appropriate employee policies regarding how to handle tricky situations like this. Particularly for a high-touch brand like Estee Lauder, the customer relationship may be more valuable than the product in question. If a customer had used a significant amount of the product before returning, I would always rely on company policy and training and, if unsure, I would call a manager for assistance."

If you can research Estee Lauder's return policy before your interview, refer to it when answering this question. Be sure to think about what you would like to hear as a customer while keeping the profits of the company in mind. Keep in mind, the interviewer has given you a clue by referencing how seriously Estee Lauder takes customer service.

"The Estee Lauder experience is designed to delight and pamper customers in all circumstances. In this situation, I would review company policy and accept the return if at all possible in order to protect a valuable customer relationship and help the customer find a different product that met her needs. I would also make every effort to check with a manager for confirmation."

"I would empathize with the customer, apologize if that is necessary, and proceed with a return if possible. If a return is not possible, I’d inform the customer of company policy and get a supervisor to confirm this if the customer is visibly upset."

Estee Lauder Companies Interview Questions

Go Back

1. We value creativity and innovation. If hired, how will you bring those skills to the team?
2. Teamwork is important to us. Why do you consider yourself a team player?
3. Judging by your resume, you appear to be overqualified for this position. What would keep you at Estee Lauder, if you were offered the position?
4. We prefer to hire those with formal training in beauty, makeup, or other related fields. Walk me through your relative training.
5. The hours at Estee Lauder can include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Do you have a flexible schedule?
6. We pride ourselves on being competitive in the employee marketplace. Tell me a little about your salary and benefits expectations.
7. What are your career aspirations beyond this job?
8. What are some ways you deliver excellent customer service?
9. We seek to hire those who have a true passion for the beauty industry. How do you stay up to date on industry trends?
10. When working remotely, how do you limit distractions?
11. How would you handle a customer objection to buying a product?
12. Tell me about a technique you would use to sell to a customer.
13. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
14. If we made you an offer, how soon would you be available to start?
15. Are you applying for any other jobs?
16. We put a lot of effort into our branding. In your opinion, how do we stand out from our competitors?
17. What do you know about Estee Lauder?
18. We put great effort into being the best in our industry. In your opinion, what can we do to remain competitive?
19. Name your favourite Estee Lauder product and why it's your favorite.
20. The beauty industry is very competitive. Why do you want to work for us?
21. We are a global corporation with brands and employees all over the world. What is your experience working with a diverse group of people?
22. Tell me about your most recent visit to one of our branded stores. What was your experience like?
23. Tell me about a time when you had to step in and be a leader.
24. How would you respond if a customer asked you a question that you didn’t know the answer to?
25. How would you handle a situation where your supervisor did not properly communicate information to you?
26. We pride ourselves on being resourceful. When have you been able to resolve a problem in your workplace?
27. 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?
28. What would you do if you caught a coworker stealing?
29. Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you handle the situation?
30. We take customer service very seriously at Estee Lauder. If a customer wanted to return a makeup product that had been significantly used, what would you do?

Estee Lauder Companies Interview Questions

1. We value creativity and innovation. If hired, how will you bring those skills to the team?

2. Teamwork is important to us. Why do you consider yourself a team player?

3. Judging by your resume, you appear to be overqualified for this position. What would keep you at Estee Lauder, if you were offered the position?

4. We prefer to hire those with formal training in beauty, makeup, or other related fields. Walk me through your relative training.

5. The hours at Estee Lauder can include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. Do you have a flexible schedule?

6. We pride ourselves on being competitive in the employee marketplace. Tell me a little about your salary and benefits expectations.

7. What are your career aspirations beyond this job?

8. What are some ways you deliver excellent customer service?

9. We seek to hire those who have a true passion for the beauty industry. How do you stay up to date on industry trends?

10. When working remotely, how do you limit distractions?

11. How would you handle a customer objection to buying a product?

12. Tell me about a technique you would use to sell to a customer.

13. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?

14. If we made you an offer, how soon would you be available to start?

15. Are you applying for any other jobs?

16. We put a lot of effort into our branding. In your opinion, how do we stand out from our competitors?

17. What do you know about Estee Lauder?

18. We put great effort into being the best in our industry. In your opinion, what can we do to remain competitive?

19. Name your favourite Estee Lauder product and why it's your favorite.

20. The beauty industry is very competitive. Why do you want to work for us?

21. We are a global corporation with brands and employees all over the world. What is your experience working with a diverse group of people?

22. Tell me about your most recent visit to one of our branded stores. What was your experience like?

23. Tell me about a time when you had to step in and be a leader.

24. How would you respond if a customer asked you a question that you didn’t know the answer to?

25. How would you handle a situation where your supervisor did not properly communicate information to you?

26. We pride ourselves on being resourceful. When have you been able to resolve a problem in your workplace?

27. 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?

28. What would you do if you caught a coworker stealing?

29. Tell me about a time when you did not have enough time to complete all assigned tasks. How did you handle the situation?

30. We take customer service very seriously at Estee Lauder. If a customer wanted to return a makeup product that had been significantly used, what would you do?