32 Merkle Interview Questions & Answers

How to Answer

The interviewer would like further insight into the types of projects that you find the most interesting, and rewarding. Briefly discuss the most exciting project that you have on the go. Explain a bit about the project, and why it is so interesting to you. If possible, compare this project to some of the projects that Merkle, Inc. works on.

1st Answer Example

"At the moment, I am working on a brand development campaign for a not-for-profit organization. This project is very exciting for me because it blends my two passions - marketing and volunteerism. I think everyone should become involved in their community as much as possible and it's exciting when you can use your professional skill set to do so. I understand that your organization takes on a variety of clients in not-for-profit, as well. I would love to learn more about those projects!"

2nd Answer Example

"I often have multiple projects on the go that are very interesting and exciting. At the moment, I am revamping the online presence for a small sized toy company. It's been a lot of fun because they are allowing me to exercise my creativity, with a significant budget as well."

How to Answer

Talk to the interviewer about a few ways that you stay in touch on new trends within the marketing industry. Knowing that you keep in touch on the latest trends will show the interviewer that you are engaged in this industry and willing to invest your time into learning more. You can also start a great conversation by asking the interviewer how they prefer to say up to date.

1st Answer Example

"I agree - this industry is fast changing, and it's really important to stay up to date on the new trends in the market. To keep up to date, I subscribe to AdWeek as well as Communication Arts Magazine. I read a variety of publications; however, these two are the ones I read daily. Do you have any recommendations for staying on top of industry trends?"

2nd Answer Example

"I have a Google alert set up for a variety of industry related keywords that include marketing, sales, search engine optimization, search engine marketing, and content development. I learn a lot from absorbing these small bits of news on a daily basis. in ad"

How to Answer

Many employers look to hire employees who have a penchant for knowledge and growth. Express your interest in continued education by passionately discussing a topic that you would love to learn more about. Be sure to keep your answer industry and job related.

1st Answer Example

"I love the idea of expanding my knowledge within internet marketing. If I could choose any topic for continued education, I would choose to learn more about search engine optimization and search engine marketing. You can dive really deep into each of those topics which is an exciting challenge for me."

2nd Answer Example

"I am really pleased to hear that you appreciate continued education. Thank you for this consideration! If I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge in any area of marketing, I would choose Consumer Behavior Insights. There is so much to learn when it comes to consumer spending and buying patterns- it's fascinating."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know what first comes to mind when you are asked to describe your personality. Be prepared by writing down some keywords ahead of time that best describe you.



If you can, visit the company website, read their job posting and see if you can find a common set of descriptive words that seem to resonate really well with Merkle, Inc.. Incorporate those if you can. Avoid giving generic, run-of-the-mill answers and make sure to compliment Merkle, Inc. on their efforts when it comes to an energetic workplace culture.

1st Answer Example

"I can see that you have a great energy here and I've really enjoyed that during this interview process. If I could describe my personality in 3 words I would say that I am motivated, positive, and dedicated. After researching your company further, I believe I am a strong fit for the culture that you have worked so hard to achieve."

2nd Answer Example

"Other words you could use to describe your workplace personality:

- Ambitious
- Approachable
- Cooperative
- Charismatic
- Diiligent
- Efficient
- Energetic
- Focused
- Inquisitive
- Meticulous
- Patient
- Responsible"

How to Answer

Getting to know Merkle, Inc. before your interview is a very important step. In addition to reviewing the company history, you also want to have a good understanding of who Merkle, Inc. services, collaborates with, and does the bulk of their business with. A thorough read through their website, online reviews, and a Google search can tell you a lot.

1st Answer Example

"From the research that I have conducted, it appears that the bulk of your clients are within the consumer services sector. It is apparent, after reading through your website and online reviews, that you have a strong client base and a very faithful client following. I would love to learn more about your biggest clients and the work you do for them."

2nd Answer Example

"I understand that the majority of your client are owners of small to medium business"

How to Answer

The interviewer is asking this question because they would like to know that you keep up to date on current branding trends. The more you know, the more apparent it is that you have a genuine interest in this industry. To an interviewer, this gives added security that you are in this career for the long term.



Briefly discuss a well-known brand. For a balanced answer, give your opinion on one thing the company could improve on and one thing they are doing right.

1st Answer Example

"It's no secret that United Airlines has been in a public relations nightmare as of late. When I look at their branding I can't help but think that they should be spending marketing dollars on spinning their mishaps into some sort of positive. Their name is so well known that their logo is all they really need for consumer recognition so - they are definitely doing some things right."

2nd Answer Example

"If I could choose any brand to improve, I would choose the Red Lobster or other family style restaurant who still rely on outdated messaging in their marketing. The glamour shots of food with the traditional families sitting down for dinner just doesn't catch the eye of the discerning customer any longer. I would first change their commercials to include more diversity. Then, I would encourage hiring a social media manager whose tweets and posts would rival notorious brands such as Starbucks or McDonalds."

How to Answer

The interviewer is asking this question because they would like to know that you keep up to date on social media trends. The more you know, the more apparent it is that you have a genuine interest in this industry. To an interviewer, this gives added security that you are in this career for the long term. Discuss a recent change in social media marketing and how you think it will change the face of the marketing industry.

1st Answer Example

"I think that the whole idea of Facebook Live is a game changer. This puts large and small brands in the same space where they can offer free and direct communication with their consumers. The options are now endless! Virtual tours, live give-away's, and private looks backstage....it's really incredible."

2nd Answer Example

"I would say that the biggest change that social media marketing will see in the next few months is the decline of visible organic content and the extra push for paid or boosted content to have priority."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to see that you are creative and inventive at the same time. Marketing and branding can be easier with a big budget so, what are you made of when the budget is low? Discuss some of your favorite methods of marketing on a small budget.

1st Answer Example

"In my opinion, social media marketing is the absolute best solution for anyone on a tight budget. You can easily reach your client and fan base by using Snapchat, Instagram Stories, and Facebook Live. They may take extra prep time but are perfect for the budget conscious client."

2nd Answer Example

"If I had a small budget to work with, the first thing I would focus on is building a strong email list for the company or project in question. Email lists are valuable and in order to create one I would offer a download, resource, or free product in exchange for the potential email address. Consumers are very drawn to a hook like that."

How to Answer

In the marketing industry, your experience with clients may be widespread. Talk to the interviewer about the range of personalities you have been exposed to. Be sure to appear confident in your ability to handle a wide variety of personalities.

1st Answer Example

"The majority of my work experience is with a wide range of clients and personalities. Happy customers are always the easiest to deal with; however, I do have some training in conflict management. I am confident in my ability to successfully and professionally handle the range of clients you work with at Merkle, Inc.."

2nd Answer Example

"I have worked with a large range of personalities and needs, in my employment history. I am very well prepared to work with a range of client personalities and do have a strong level of patience."

How to Answer

We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would like to be recognized for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?

1st Answer Example

"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is to be given words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."

2nd Answer Example

"I am definitely driven by some friendly competition! I like internally driven contests where I have the ability to win small financial incentives."

How to Answer

Are you the type of individual who prefers to know what the routine will be, or do you thrive on the challenge and excitement of unpredictability?

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 really like variety because it keeps me on my toes, and gives me the opportunity to learn additional skills while exercising my current knowledge. I am also able to work in a routine but do prefer to switch things up from time to time."

How to Answer

Talking about your greatest accomplishment will give the interviewer a strong idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!

1st Answer Example

"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This showed me that I am able to dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."

2nd Answer Example

"I have many accomplishments that I am very proud of. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have in this industry."

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 completely start over in a new direction 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 am very satisfied with the direction my career has taken. If I could change anything I would perhaps have furthered my education to include a more unique focus; however, I have no regrets!"

How to Answer

Recruiters and hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications per job. If you are lucky enough to land an interview, make some effort to conduct research on the opportunity. Think about how this job will help you in your career. It's important for you to know not only what you have to offer them, but what they can do for you. While your passion and excitement about the job are important, it's always good to have some hard facts to back it up. IE: 'I have heard great things about your company and I know I would be a great fit for this job,' is not very specific.

If you find recent news articles or press releases which talk about the company's accomplishments, mention how that impressed you.

1st Answer Example

"I am excited about this opportunity because your values are very much in line with mine. I deeply care about giving back to the community. I also feel like this job will help me reach my goal of working in a management position, because of the leadership opportunities within this role."

2nd Answer Example

"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in Digital Marketing while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."

How to Answer

Public speaking can be intimidating so assure the interviewer that you are capable of communicating well in front of large groups. Have you taken any courses or training in public speaking? Perhaps you have so much experience that it comes second nature. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of giving presentations.

1st Answer Example

"In my past 2 roles I have been responsible for regularly presenting to my team of 43 staff as well as to our entire warehouse team of over 200. I have taken a couple of Toastmasters sessions which helped a great deal. I am a confident public speaker."

2nd Answer Example

"Presenting to large groups is a big part of successfully rolling out large communications to teams organization wide. I have experience preparing the deck to be presented to ensure it is simple and thorough. I utilize different communication techniques to make a presentation fun, interesting, and engaging."

How to Answer

Are you able to be productive in any environment? Are there particular types of environments that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the type of environment that is offered in this position prior to the interview.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and found that I could be very productive when there was the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments although that isn't my preference."

2nd Answer Example

"I work well in a high pressure, demanding environment that requires you to work smart and make your mark. I am competitive in nature and love to be personally challenged."

How to Answer

Often, our work environment holds the possibility for awkward or tense situations. It can be difficult to know how to respond when you have a coworker who is moody, or when your coworker lacks social skills and constantly asks inappropriate questions. The interviewer wants to know that you can keep your cool in situations like these.

1st Answer Example

"I have had my share of awkward situations, and having raised 2 kids, I am no stranger to them! In the workplace, if an uncomfortable situation arises I tend to face the issue head on, but in a tactful way. Sweeping things under the rug rarely helps. I have no problem being open with my team or colleagues if I am not feeling comfortable in a particular situation."

2nd Answer Example

"I try to avoid conflict, but I have a high tolerance for discomfort. I've learned to try to let the people in question sort it out, but have no problem rolling up my sleeves and diving in to help mediate the problem."

How to Answer

Have you ever taken the opportunity to present your employer with potential change? Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took initiative in the workplace.

1st Answer Example

"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after my initiative was implemented and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment."

2nd Answer Example

"Last month my supervisor asked me to take our existing sales training package and improve it. My goal was to make the system more engaging for new recruits. Once we implemented my ideas, we increased our new trainee retention rate by 16%. I was quite proud of what my creativity could do!"

How to Answer

Did you start working at a young age? Perhaps you have held some tough jobs earlier in your career? Many hiring managers agree that the best employees are ones with 'grit' and whom have held a 'dirty job' or two in their lives. Talk to the interviewer about your early work experience.

1st Answer Example

"I have been working since I was just 14 years old. My first job was as a shop hand for my father who was a mechanic. I had to sweep, clean, greet customers and order parts. It was a great way for me to get my hands dirty and I was taught excellent customer service skills from an early age. Everything that I learned during that time has helped me to stay grounded and humble in my career."

2nd Answer Example

"My early career taught me great work ethic and positively shaped my communication skills. I look forward to applying these skills to this role with your company."

How to Answer

It is easy to say that you are trustworthy and honest but it's best if you can back it up with a review or words from a previous supervisor.

1st Answer Example

"I am told quite often that I am an honest and trustworthy individual and you will be able to hear that directly from my supervisor when you call for a reference. I hold honesty and trustworthiness as very important virtues."

2nd Answer Example

"My friends and family rely on me heavily because I am trustworthy and honest. They can count on me to be straightforward with them and depend on me to be there when it matters least or most."

How to Answer

Job satisfaction is a major factor in whether people stay or leave their employers. Talk to the interviewer about what satisfies you about your career and why you continue to stay on this particular path.

1st Answer Example

"I am very satisfied in this career path and I believe it is because I am able to help people on a daily basis. It is important for me to feel as though I am contributing to my community and this career certainly generates those feelings."

2nd Answer Example

"My satisfaction always comes from a job well done. I am self-led and disciplined so my satisfaction truly comes from within."

How to Answer

Interviewers want to hear that you have experience teaching or mentoring other employees one-on-one.

You may have taught a new hire all of your department's standard processes. Perhaps you taught a long standing employee how to use Excel. You may have mentored an employee who was struggling to hit their monthly goals. All of these scenarios are great examples to draw on. Better yet, if you have personally seen someone struggling with workplace skills or knowledge, approached them, and offered to mentor them, it is a shining example of leadership!

Whatever your scenario may be, tell the interviewer what you helped the person with, while highlighting the positive outcome of their skills improvement.

1st Answer Example

"Last week our company introduced a new module in our SAP system. I could see that our contracted HR Assistant was having some troubles with the new module. I was familiar with it already so I offered to help him learn the module. We spent his lunch hour for the next 3 days working on it. He perfected the module and our company was so impressed with his dedication to learning that they are now trying to find room to hire him on a full time, permanent basis."

2nd Answer Example

"Absolutely! In each of my two previous roles, I have been tasked with leading a small team. I have worked on everything from appointment setting and overcoming objections to price negotiations with those respective teams. What's more, I always look for an opportunity to connect with the new folks to the team to ensure them that I can be a resource to them."

How to Answer

What is this particular company's biggest challenge, and how do you think that you can assist?

1st Answer Example

"After speaking with you further about the company, and this role, I believe that the biggest challenge this company has faced is in hiring the right talent. I have a strong background in recruitment as well as management and do feel that I can assist with this hurdle. Having the right team players is imperative to a company's success and, if we can tackle that, I see great things happening."

2nd Answer Example

"That is a tough question because I have not spend time working within your organization. Knowing the industry, my best guess would be that the biggest challenge is the same challenge any marketing company faces, and that is keeping up with the fast paced changes in marketing, advertising, and social media."

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 would choose to invest the $50,000 into an existing business in an industry that my spouse has an interest in. I love what I do for a career but she has always wanted to be an entrepreneur."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that you are able to think outside the box, or even ask for help, when you are stuck on a complicated problem.

Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues or even patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need in order to find the best way to solve the problem.

Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.

1st Answer Example

"When I am faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."

2nd Answer Example

"In order to solve a complex issue, I will reach out to a manager or mentor from a previous role to ask them how they've handled such issues in the past. I am always ready to dive back into our handbook, but these types of scenarios are often not covered there, which is why I really value a human, experiential approach. I know that there are so many folks in the industry who have so much to teach me and have probably already "been-there-done-that", so I love to utilize them as a resource."

How to Answer

A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.

1st Answer Example

"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 plus a car allowance of $900/month and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

2nd Answer Example

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants know if you are an independent thinker. Explain that you would take the time to try and figure out the answer, but you are not afraid to ask questions if you need to.

1st Answer Example

"If I had a client ask me about something that I didn't know enough about, I would absolutely find the answer for them before giving a false answer. I am okay with admitting when I don't know something and i love to learn new things. Of course, I would find the answer quickly by asking the appropriate person or finding it within the company's internal resources."

2nd Answer Example

"Whenever I do not have an answer, I never say 'I don't know'. I always reply with a 'I will find out'. If I do not know the answer to something then I take it as an opportunity to research and learn something exciting and new."

How to Answer

This question can make an interviewee feel the pressure, that is for sure! Be honest about your thoughts and feelings regarding your interview performance.

If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: "I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

1st Answer Example

"I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

2nd Answer Example

"If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: "I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more that I can clarify for you I would be happy to do so."

How to Answer

Team collaboration is a key part of most jobs so it's important that you give an overall positive reply to this question. If you have difficulty working in a team environment, that is okay; however, you need to show the interviewer that you are capable of offering flexibility between a group setting and working autonomously. In the end, the interviewer wants to be assured that you are capable of working positively, in a team environment.

If you love working in a team environment: "Personally, I thrive in a team environment. I see team projects as an opportunity to learn new skills!"

1st Answer Example

"Personally, I thrive in a team environment. I see team projects as an opportunity to learn new skills!"

2nd Answer Example

"If you have difficulty working in a team environment: "Depending on the scope of the project, I sometimes prefer to work autonomously; however, I am more than capable of being a positive and contributing member of a team based project."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to hear that you feel accomplished through teamwork. Talk about a time when you felt fulfilled through a team setting or project collaboration.

An example may be a time when you worked on a team project in University, a recent work collaboration, or possibly an extracurricular experience such as coaching a little league team.

Discuss the positive results of the teamwork and how you attained a positive outcome as a group.

1st Answer Example

"The most rewarding team work experience that I have had was in my last year of university. We were assigned a project in teams of 4 which accounted for quite a large part of our grade. I believe everyone pulled more than their own weight because so much was at stake. Team work is very rewarding when everyone has sometime to win, or lose."

2nd Answer Example

"One of my most rewarding team work experiences was while I was attending University. I learned so much by working with my classmates. I gained new problem solving skills and learned a lot from their research preferences."

How to Answer

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from simply watching a video on their company site!

Here are some sample questions:

- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

1st Answer Example

2nd Answer Example

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? In addition, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

How to Answer

Why are you the right fit for this particular position? This is a good time to highlight the skills you possess and show the interviewer that you are the best choice for the position.

1st Answer Example

"I feel that I will be successful in this position because I am passionate about what your organization stands for. I can clearly see your vision and have already drafted some great ideas on how I can help you to get there. My organizational skills will be a major asset to you and I also bring with me a strong track record of increasing sales and client base."

2nd Answer Example

"I believe I am equipped with the experience and know-how to take this role on and be successful. Some of your challenges are things I have helped organizations overcome and I will be proud to work for a company that delivers the services to the community that you do!"