The consumer products industry is fast moving. How do you keep up to date on current trends in your line of work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Entry Level Example
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

To stay on top of their game in a variety of consumer markets, Procter and Gamble need to be continually innovative. Your interviewer knows that to be innovative, every member of their team needs to be focused and dedicated to continually improving their craft. With this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you would join Procter and Gamble with a growth attitude by always seeking continuing education opportunities in the future.

Being up to date on current trends is incredibly essential in the consumer products industry. Assure the interviewer that you are engaged and interested in staying up to date and educated in your field by talking about some of the past educational opportunities you have taken advantage of. This can include attendance at seminars or training. As well, don't forget to talk about any industry-related organizations and/or publications that you belong to or subscribe to.

"Although I'm new to this industry, I have a strong understanding of how the market works and how quickly things can change. I read a lot in my spare time, so I'm always online reading relevant articles about various Fortune 500 companies and product and labor trends. Google often suggests related articles, so I read those regularly to stay in the know. I have also begun to network on LinkedIn and follow industry leaders so that I can keep up with changes."

"I agree that Procter and Gamble's varying markets are incredibly fast-moving. I keep up to date on new trends in the news and online through business and consumer goods-focused blogs. I subscribe to a variety of industry publications as well. At times, learning from competitors is extremely important and I would be willing to bet that your organization keeps pretty close tabs on your competitors."

"It's tough to stay up to date on current trends in such a fast-moving industry. I like to follow any blogs from the C-suite within the consumer products industry to get a feel for various company strategies and philosophies. I think it's also important to join professional organizations and travel to at least one professional conference per year. That allows me to hear from leaders in the field and to swap stories and experiences with those who hold similar roles in other companies across the world. Last year, I attended the AMA national conference and it was great to network with other industry professionals and exchange ideas."