24 QuinStreet Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our QuinStreet interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. If hired for the sales position with QuinStreet, we may ask you to test different advertisements. Have you created split or A/B ads? What worked and did not work and why?
How to Answer
Occasionally our clients may want you to run split advertisements. Split or A/B ads are two to three different ads for the same product. Both ads run simultaneously for short periods, after a few days, the ad with the best performance is kept and the money going towards the other one to two ads will be put towards the top performing ad. Alternatively, the same ad may run but targeted at different demographics.
Explain your experience with split ads, give specific examples. If you have never run a split ad, explain your knowledge of how they function.
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my last position I created a split ad for a massage parlor. I used natural and calming imagery for the A ad, and used colorful bright imagery for the B ad. These were marketed to the same target demographic. After 3 days, ad A was performing 60% better than ad B. Therefore ad B was cut and the budget was put into the ad with better performance."
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I sold water bottles for an online store. The water bottles were especially good at keeping drinks cold in harsh climates. I created one advertisement emphasizing the better features of the bottle. I then targeted the ad towards two different demographics. Women ages 18-35, and men 18-35. We found that our ad aimed at men was more effective at selling water bottles. We then removed the ad aimed at women."
2. Data security continues to be a concern for marketers when executing online advertising campaigns. What security issues do you find important as it relates to online advertising and how can your knowledge/experience help us at QuinStreet?
How to Answer
Securing the personal data of its customers has been a top concern for many companies. When responding to this question, relay your knowledge of data security as it relates to digital advertising. Include any experience you may have working with security-related projects or issues. Before joining its team, QuinStreet will want to know that you are aware of the security issues companies face when executing Digital Advertising campaigns.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Although the use of personal data allows marketers to better target and customize their digital ads, keeping the data secure is of utmost importance. In a few of my roles with previous employers, we have continuously worked to monitor our data security measures to ensure we did not lose the trust of our customers. I have worked on task forces that evaluated new policies and technologies available to secure data within our warehouses. This team was responsible for how data was used within and outside the company. My experience working on these teams give me a better understanding of how to test and monitor the security features of QuinStreet's products before it's released to clients."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"While working at a variety of companies, I learned how important it is to understand how the stored customer data is being used internally and externally. In addition, when transmitted externally to outside vendors, it is important the transmission is secure to avoid personal customer data being unknowingly shared. Digital Advertising uses vasts amounts of data for the execution and evaluation of campaigns, and I have worked with marketers to ensure that any data sharing is done so with the highest security measures in place. When transmitted externally, I also certified that the partner receiving the data also had high security levels implemented into its system. With my knowledge of security issues, I have no doubt that I will be able to help QuinStreet continue to offer security measures in its product to put its clients' minds at ease."
3. In the healthcare services industry there are many emotions in a day. Have your emotions ever been in the way of your productivity?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if you consider yourself to be an emotionally driven person. Talk to the interviewer about your emotions and if they have ever affected your productivity at work.
Keep in mind - almost everyone is an emotional creature to some degree, but there are other ways that you can describe yourself that have a more positive connotation. If you are passionate, you could choose to refer to yourself as:
- Expressive
- Communicative
- Open
- Unreserved
- Warm Hearted
1st Answer Example
"Everyone is emotional to a certain degree, and I would consider myself kind-hearted and open. A career in healthcare can be emotional at times; however, I choose to focus on the positives. For instance - if we are close to losing a patient, I will focus on the positive memories rather than the illness. This mindset has consistently allowed me to continue with a productive shift no matter the emotions that come my way. "
2nd Answer Example
"This is a great question. I think the right answer is, 'of course, but not for long'! We've all had those tough cases. A child dies, a patient yells at you, or you have to give someone a cancer diagnosis. Its professional to take a few minutes after an encounter like that and let those emotions come and go. I cope with these emotions by telling myself that it's not my story, its the patient's story. I think it's okay to be moved by someone else's experience, but I don't need to make it mine."
4. What questions do you have for me about QuinStreet?
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 items you could have found the answers to from merely 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 most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
5. Companies partner with QuinStreet because of their arsenal of up-to-date marketing technologies and knowledge. What marketing tools do you work with regularly and how do you stay current on development updates and new product releases?
How to Answer
Your interviewer wants to know how familiar you are with the industry's applications. They also want to know if you intentionally stay up-to-date on new programs, tools, and product developments.
You can list the most popular tools you currently work with or have worked with in the past, and mention whether you have worked on proprietary systems. Mention any skills with less common programs that are in demand.
Avoid mentioning programs that you haven't worked with for 3-5+ years, or any system you aren't comfortable enough to have a user-level technical discussion about. Also, don't mention proprietary systems by name unless they were built on a well-known framework where your knowledge could transfer.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I've worked on CRMs like Salesforce and SAP, and other proprietary programs. I'm also very familiar with Wordpress, and content automation services like Buffer and Social Pilot. I take time out to review product release emails I receive to stay aware of new features in the programs I use regularly. I read new tool reviews on blog posts that I come across while researching new solutions for my clients. I also watch at least one video per week on my free time about marketing strategy; this is another way to hear about new tools and tricks this."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Currently, I'm working in a number of customer relationship databases, design tools for content creation, content management system, marketing automation and analytics tools. I follow industry leader newsletters, listen to podcasts, and occasionally visit tradeshows to stay on top of upcoming technologies in my field."
6. When working a sales position with QuinStreet, rejection is a part of the job, what are your coping strategies for handling rejection?
How to Answer
As with most sales and marketing positions, working as an employee at QuinStreet means you will often need to approach many clients before making a sale. Unfortunately, it is common for potential clients to reject an offer before hearing the sales pitch. To be a strong employee of QuinStreet you should to be able to cope with rejection well.
It is normal for salespeople to hear 'no' far more often than they hear 'yes'. Give some examples of coping skills and how you stay positive and motivated when facing rejection.
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"While it always feels great to close a sale, I understand there is a lot of work involved in getting there. One strategy I use to stay motivated is to 'Go for the No'. I set a goal a number of no's for the day, when I hit a rough patch, rejection becomes an achieved goal instead of a problem."
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that it takes several rejections to get a sale. Not every customer is going to be a great fit with QuinStreet nor like it's products or services. It's vital that we have many conversations, some that will lead to rejection, but ultimately will lead to identifying the best potential customers."
7. At QuinStreet, we believe data management is crucial when executing and evaluating a campaign. What is your experience working with data as it relates to digital advertising?
How to Answer
In your response, talk about the jobs or projects where you worked with data related to digital advertising. While doing so, express your understanding of the importance of data management in this area. Be sure to share any experience you might have had with Data Management Platforms (DMP's) and how they may have help with the success of a digital advertising campaign. In addition, speak to how you might contribute to QuinStreet's data management efforts.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As with any type of marketing campaign, I have learned that data management is key to launching and running a successful Digital Advertising campaign. My work with Data Management Platforms has exposed me to the sizable volume of data collected and managed for Digital Advertising campaigns. As part of my job, I managed large data warehouses and extracted data required for targeting and evaluating Digital Advertising campaigns. This was crucial to ensure that these campaigns were effective and meeting company goals. If given the opportunity to work with QuinStreet, I am confident that my knowledge will help clients better manage their Digital Advertising data."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"The capture and exchange of data before, during and after a Digital Advertising campaign is imperative. Although my work with Data Management Platforms is somewhat limited, I have worked with team members to troubleshoot issues as it relates to Digital Advertising data. This includes addressing issues with data capture including the refreshing and cleaning out of 'stale' cookies. In addition, I have experience troubleshooting integration issues with data warehouses storing the necessary data for Digital Advertising campaigns. As an active member of the technology team at QuinStreet, I trust that I can help the data management efforts run smoothly."
8. Based on your knowledge and experience, what is the difference between Advertising Marketplaces and Demand Side Platforms?
How to Answer
While responding to this question, assure the interviewer that you know the characteristics of both and identify at least the main difference between the two. Include information you have about QuinStreet's products and services as it relates to either advertising marketplaces or demand-side platforms.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Advertising Marketplaces, also known as Ad Exchanges, is a platform where publishers can sell ads and marketers can purchase them for their campaigns. On the other hand, Demand Side Platforms are tools to connect with Advertising Marketplaces to automate the transactions making it more efficient. Based on my knowledge and research, QuinStreet's Advertising Marketplace offers marketers a robust source for ads and works seamlessly with Demand Side Platforms."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Demand Side Platforms can connect with multiple Advertising Marketplaces, allowing marketers a wide variety of options when purchasing ads for their campaigns. Therefore, although Demand Side Platforms increase competition between Advertising Marketplaces, it also gives each of them more exposure as more marketers use DSP's to manage, target and purchase ads. In many cases, Demand Side Platforms have become the bridge between the marketer and the Advertising Marketplace. QuinStreet has built its reputation on being a competitive Advertising Marketplace based on its pricing and diverse ad options for marketers to purchase."
9. How do you evaluate success among your team members?
How to Answer
When you are leading a team, it is imperative to be aware of the level of success that each team member is experiencing. One underperforming team player can drag down the entire group. Talk to the interviewer about how you can stay aware of each team members' success.
1st Answer Example
"I have a very in-depth and successful system for evaluating success among my team members. I check in twice per week with each member of my team. On Mondays - to set our goals together. Then, on Fridays, to discuss any successes and challenges. I have them self-evaluate, and then we create a plan for success for the upcoming week. I evaluate their success based on their follow through and willingness to work hard to reach their goals."
2nd Answer Example
"I typically have KPI (key performance indicators) in place to measure the success of each of the members of the team. I also manage our overall success in working together. For example, are we hitting on key initiatives within the department, developing each other for succession planning and having fun along the way!"
10. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Tell the interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."
2nd Answer Example
"Here are some other ways you could describe a great employer. A great employer will:
- Pause to have fun now and then but also know when to be serious
- Treat everyone fairly, and equally
- Offer rewards for great work
- Offer a continually challenging environment
- Offer flexibility and understands that personal situations come up from time to time
- Encourage a collaborative workplace"
11. If brought on for a sales position with QuinStreet, you may need to adapt quickly in order to appeal to the needs of consumers. What are some key factors you considered when crafting an ad or sales pitch to appeal potential customers?
How to Answer
QuinStreet works with a diverse set of clients who have different interests, lifestyles, and needs. You will need great listening skills and the ability to perceive what your client needs are. This way, you can best craft your sales pitch or advertising to appeal to that client.
The interviewer wants to know how you adapt to address your client's key pain points, needs, and desires. Talk about how you crafted your ad or sales pitch to address a need, solve a pain point, or appeal to your client or clients.
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"When speaking with potential clients, I ask key questions and take time to hear any unique challenges they may be facing. I then suggest the best product or service to solve their problem, explaining in detail how our product or service will improve their day to day life."
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my last position, my client produced waterproof flashlights. A large number of our customers were campers. In my advertising, I used natural imagery, and a rugged outdoors look. I used keywords, such as 'Mountains', 'Great Outdoors' and 'Hiking' to appeal to campers. I explained in my ads how a waterproof flashlight was more durable and would work outside, in the rain, wind, and snow, where other flashlights would fail."
12. The customer avatar is key to building the right audiences for QuinStreet's clients. How do you collect data needed in order to create an ideal customer profile, then determine the strategy for targeting prospective customers that are a match?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to uncover your experience with identifying, advertising to, and creating a following of potential customers.
You need to explain how you determine what kind of people would be interested in your clients' product or services, and why. Your answer should explain how you research information including demographics, location, educational or professional backgrounds, their challenges, and their goals. When it comes to targeting, you'll need to explain how you know where your customer avatar shops, the platforms they use most frequently, and how they make purchases.
Do not refer to customer profiles or targeting strategies you've implemented using data that came from third-party research. The interviewer wants to know how you conduct research and planning on your own.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"When creating an ideal customer profile, I review analytics from my client's website, app, and CRM to see what kinds of people have purchased or shown interest in purchasing from them. I hone in on customers that have the best buying habits or potential, finding out more about where they're live and work, income range, and other demographics. I take note of any trends or similarities among this group of customers. I may conduct surveys or interviews within my targeted demographic to further understand their motivations. This all helps me to craft a customer avatar, which becomes my center of a strategy for deciding on platforms, messaging, and promotions."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the past, I've had to create a customer avatar for a client that had no previous sales but was competing against existing businesses. To do this, I purchased market data to find out who my client's competitors and their customers where. I found out what those customers' challenges and goals were. I looked into data on spending habits, and conducted polls, often incentivizing participants so I could discover shortcomings in competitors' offerings. Using this information, seasonal, and demographic data, I came up with a target customer profile and put together a timely campaign to reach them with language that would appeal to their desire for a solution that would ultimately fulfill their needs."
13. As an increasing number of people are accessing content via mobile devices, QuinStreet wants to ensure that it is offering tools that address these trends. What experience do you have developing mobile applications as it relates to online marketing?
How to Answer
Working in an industry such as online advertising, it is crucial that team members keep up with technology trends. As most companies do, QuinStreet shifts its resources to address trends such as mobile marketing.
If you do not have experience as a developer of mobile applications, but you have some work experience related to it, then mention those. At the very minimum, be prepared and research mobile marketing tools and share what you have learned.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position as a developer, I had the opportunity to work on a mobile marketing platform that allowed marketers to manage and measure their mobile marketing efforts in one place. This tool allowed for easy customization, personalization and tracking of marketing campaigns. My responsibility as a developer was to implement additional capabilities based on user feedback. This required me to stay abreast of changing trends in the Online Marketing industry."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a developer, I have not had experience working directly with mobile marketing tools. However, I have worked with different marketing technologies such as content management systems and email marketing tools. My work with a variety of clients on these tools helped me gain knowledge on the overall Online Marketing industry, including mobile marketing. I understand there are different mobile marketing tools and platforms available that allow marketers to create, deliver and track mobile marketing campaigns. I understand the importance of making sure marketing content is visually appealing when delivered or viewed on mobile devices."
14. There are different levels of pricing offered by QuinStreet; pricing can be fixed, pay-per-view, or can be further customizable. From your experience, what's the best way to present pricing options to customers?
How to Answer
This is a question related to closing sales. Your interviewer will be waiting to hear the textbook response or your answer from real-world application. You can explain why options are good in the decision-making process and provide your answer on how to present them.
Your answer should not relate to uncovering what option is best for the customer at this point. That should have been done earlier during the discovery part of your presentation, and if addressed now, it will make you seem unorganized in your selling process and raise questions about your fit for the position.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"The best way to present customers with pricing options is visual, side-by-side. This needs to be done in a simple way that is not overwhelming so they can easily digest what they'll receive depending on the level of service they choose. Throughout the presentation process, I will have asked plenty of questions to understand the customer's needs and be able to make a recommendation from the options that will serve their best interests. Presenting options to a customer this way helps them to feel like a participant on the path to solving their problem rather than a pressured buyer. It also opens up talking points to transition into the last stages of the sale."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"According to research, it's helpful to present a customer with just a few options to guide them toward making their purchase. For one, having options to choose from allows the customer to maintain a sense of control during the sale. Second, not presenting more than a few options at once keeps the selection process simple, avoiding decision-making overload which can often become a hindrance to a customer making any selection at all. I was once working with a customer who was holding up her contract as she deliberated over website hosting for an entire week. When asked what options she was considering, she emailed me five different ones with varying prices and features. From the 7 I highlighted 3 and replied, 'These will serve you best of all, pick any one of these and it will be great.' She took my advice, and within one day, our staff was able to start working on her project."
15. QuinStreet believes that results should be measured to determine the success of marketing efforts. What are some key performance metrics you look at to decide whether marketing efforts have fallen short of, met, or exceeded expectations?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know about your knowledge of common key performance indicators across the marketing industry and how they should be understood regarding a successful or unsuccessful marketing campaign.
You should answer by listing the key performance metrics that are usually tracked during marketing campaigns.
Do not provide specific metric numbers from your current or last position. Be general by naming the metric rather than providing numbers which may be confidential, or more information than what the interviewer needs.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Typical KPIs that should be measured to show whether a campaign has been successful or not are the value of spend, lead counts and source quality, the value of sales before, after and during the campaign, profit, and return on investment."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"KPIs can vary based on campaigns. If your main focus is to grow an audience, for example, it's important to look at growth in numbers of followers, engagements on social media and blog posts, referrals, and new email list subscribers."
16. How would your most recent manager describe you?
How to Answer
When you answer this question, draw from your last performance review and a piece of feedback you have received from your most recent boss or coworkers. You do not want to guess what your manager thinks of you. Solidify your answer by referring to the strong employment references you are able to provide.
1st Answer Example
"In my recent performance reviews and discussions, my manager describes me as a hard worker, motivated and consistent employee. I always strive to exceed expectations when I can. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference as well."
2nd Answer Example
"My last manager and I had a close relationship. She appreciated all of my efforts when it came to working overtime and taking my work home when required. I believe she would describe me as unique, reliable and energetic."
17. QuinStreet delivers great results to clients by using the best marketing tools and technology. Can you describe a time a client required a customized solution, your role in the process of creating and deploying it, and any collaborative efforts involved?
How to Answer
The interviewer asks this question to understand your level of experience with selecting or creating the right marketing technology for a client's needs. From your answer, they'll try to determine if you already have skills that will allow you to immediately be an asset to them in this area of their process.
To answer this question, you should first confirm that you have experienced working with a client that required a custom solution in the past. In summarized detail, you should explain what your role in the client's project was, their technology need, and how you determined that it would require a custom solution. You should concisely explain who else was involved to build the solution - analysts, developers, or 3 party vendors, e.g.
Finally, explain how you were able to test the solution and successfully roll it out for use with the client.
Do not talk about projects where you had minimal involvement or focus on team efforts saying 'we' when referring to action taken. Say 'I' and talk about your direct involvement in a project. The interviewer wants to hear about your contribution and expertise.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I was an Account Manager to a client that wanted to measure and compare key metrics from different sources. We reviewed the features on all of the tools we had at the time, but none allowed us to see all the data in one place. I explained the problem to our analysts on staff who found a way to pull raw files that contained the data from our system. They automated a process where it would regularly transfer and sort into Excel. They also created an easy interface where I, or any basic Excel user could access and manipulate the data.
After they created the tool, I tested it with them for two weeks to make sure it was working correctly. I then shared it with our client and we were able to use it throughout their campaign."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, my current employer has clients that need to track audience engagement on their website and social pages. As a Marketing Coordinator, I am tasked with admin duties like maintaining the systems they've selected to track results. When clients want to add or subtract features to suit their needs, I read through program FAQs or contact the software program helpdesks to walk me through the configuration of the features. I'm continually responsible for reporting and ensuring the reports allow us to see results in the way the clients prefer based on their feedback."
18. Describe your experience working with advertisers/marketers or publishers.
How to Answer
Advertising Marketplaces are platforms where marketers and publishers 'meet'. Hiring managers will find experience working with either of these groups will provide valuable perspectives as QuinStreet improves its products and services. Talk about what you learned with working with either or both of these groups. If you do not have experience working with either group, share your knowledge about the groups' roles as it relates to digital advertising and Advertising Marketplaces.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"From my time at a few different advertising agencies, I learned a bit about what is important to advertisers when running their digital advertising campaigns. Although in most cases the marketer's agency works through a Demand Side Platform, it is important the Advertising Marketplace offers a wide variety and volume of ads at competitive prices. In addition, it should communicate seamlessly with the Demand Side Platform. Understanding the importance of digital ad placements from a marketer's perspective has helped me understand what Advertising Marketplace attributes are important to remain competitive."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Working on digital advertising campaigns with previous employers has given me a holistic view of the digital advertising industry. Marketers are looking for ads that will provide the best means to communicate to their target audience within budget, while publishers are looking to sell their ads to the highest bidder. In addition, publishers are looking to reach their target audience of marketers. To be successful, Advertising Marketplaces need to understand both sides of the exchange."
19. The technology available to our campaign managers is constantly changing and improving. How do you remain current with the changing industry?
How to Answer
To add value as a QuinStreet team member, it is important that you remain current to changes in the industry. Whether through formal or informal means, hiring managers want to be assured that you will make strides to remain informed and continue learning about trends and new developments in the digital advertising industry. Through your response, convey that you are interested in personal professional growth that will contribute to QuinStreet's strategic goals.
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"From my experience in the digital advertising industry, I have witnessed the many technological changes and improvements that have benefited marketers. I understand that to get a full picture of the industry climate, you have to go outside the company's walls. I belong to several industry professional groups online where I am informed of seminars and training sessions as it relates to Digital Advertising technology. The information I acquire from these gatherings has been valuable as I implement my learnings into my job responsibilities and share with other team members within the company."
Written by Helen Lee on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My experience at various companies has shown me that informal learning can be just as valuable as formal training sessions or seminars. I continually seek out ways to learn more about the Digital Advertising industry, whether it's from the technological side or the creative side. By connecting with clients, co-workers in other departments or professionals in my network, I have gained valuable insights into the Digital Advertising industry. The knowledge I gained has given me new perspectives on my work and the industry overall, while giving me the tools I need to add value to the company."
20. QuinStreet seeks to hire those with strong problem solving skills. When were you able to successfully resolve a problem in the workplace?
How to Answer
Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess. Display to the interviewer that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace. Talk about a time when you were creative, proactive, and displayed the leadership qualities required to resolve a workplace issue.
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position we had a consistent problem with employees showing up late for their shifts or calling in sick at the very last moment. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style that management usually takes, I decided to track the results of an accountability reward system. For 180 days, my employees were rewarded 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 bonus' cost us less money, in the end 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I was working in a clinic where the primary population was low income. We had a lot of concerns with patients not showing up for appointments when expected. The staff wanted to start double-booking patient time slots. Instead, I got permission to spend a day in a highly-rated clinic serving the same population. Instead of scheduling, they had these 'drop-in mornings' with a common waiting room. I took these methods and incorporated them into our setting. We did that twice a week, and it completely solved our scheduling problem."
21. Reporting and analytics are crucial for QuinStreet to monitor and gauge results, and demonstrate ROI to clients. What is an example of a report you've created for a client and how the data from it helped you to plan the next steps of their campaign?
How to Answer
Here, the interviewer wants to make sure that you understand the importance of measuring and delivering results to clients who need a return on their investment, and that at some point, you've been responsible for monitoring and reporting on activities and outcomes. They also want to see if you are an analytical thinker, how you react to data, and what kind of data you're most familiar with.
You can answer by providing an example of a report you've created to track and show marketing activities, and key results. You may choose to tell them about reporting on a campaign that was successful or not and explain adjustments you made for increased success.
Do not talk about reports that you've administered without having responsibility for at least two out of the three following elements: gathering, reacting to or putting the data into presentation form.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"One of my client's goals was to increase the number of purchases completed through their website. They had no clear direction on how to do it. I added a sophisticated analytics tool to the back end of their website to see where traffic on their website was originating from, and to analyze the behavior of customers from the different sources. After compiling the data for a set time, I put it into a simple format to allow my client to see two metrics: Traffic Sources and Completed Sales. This report helped us to realize that most visitors that actually made purchases came from one social media site, so we decided to increase the budget for paid advertising there in order to reach more potential customers."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'm usually working with a number of clients who are on similar programs at the same time. The repetition in these programs allows me to suggest the most useful KPIs that they'll want to see on a weekly basis. For these clients, I find it efficient to pull high-level reports from our system that include website and blog traffic, click-thru rates, and other data to compare week-over-week results. We have quick calls with them to review every Friday and dig further into the data, what's caused fluctuations of any activity and if needed, adjust our course of action."
22. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best in an independent and autonomous environment. Can you describe the management style here?"
2nd Answer Example
"Here are some management styles:
- Directive Autocrat
- Permissive Autocrat
- Consultative Style
- Persuasive Style
- Inclusive
- Democratic Style
- MBWA (Management By Walking Around)
- Laissez-faire
- Mentorship Style"
23. A sales position at QuinStreet includes follow up calls and emails with our customers. Occasionally a customer may have a complaint about the product or service they received from us, explain how you would respond.
How to Answer
More than likely, positions at QuinStreet will have an involvement in sales. QuinStreet will want to assist their clients and help them achieve better performance on their advertising platform. Unfortunately, in any business, it's near impossible to have 100% customer satisfaction. Therefore, QuinStreet will want to see how you handle customer complaints.
Handling customer concerns is an integral part of many sales roles. Describe how you can turn a negative situation into a positive while listening to and addressing the customer's interests.
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I see negative feedback as an opportunity to highlight our brand's dedication to customers. I respond to the feedback by validating the customer's concerns, apologizing if needed, and offering several suggestions for a solution to the problem."
Written by Shannon Gibson on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous role, a customer sent an email to our office, she was dissatisfied because she had placed an order by mail, and the package had arrived damaged. I apologized to the customer for the inconvenience and took action quickly to correct the situation. I let the customer know that we would be speaking with our shipping agent regarding the incident, and would immediately ship out a replacement package free of charge."
24. Our company values employees with an entrepreneurial spirit. Do you believe your approach to sales and career goals are a match for this kind of culture, and if so, why?
How to Answer
The interviewer will ask these questions wanting to know if you have experience working in an environment similar to their own. They would like to hear some details related to your working style, short and long term goals, and how you've been able to grow a business, with examples of why you would be a fit in their organization. Your answer should match elements of their overall culture. You can also incorporate numbers related to your achievements to substantiate your claims.
Do not answer this question without doing research on the company and the people that work there. This is a crucial part of successfully answering culture-fit questions in an interview. If you're not entirely sure what their culture is, you can let them know you've done some research but would like some more information, then ask them to describe it to you briefly before you provide an answer.
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I think that my approach and long-term goals are definitely a match for your company. I've held a position with a company where the environment was highly entrepreneurial. I started with a very small book of business that I was expected to grow with very little training or direction. It was up to me to ensure I understood the company's objectives and target customers to effectively prospect. I also had to stay highly organized and consistent in the absence of a real process or system. I provided feedback and worked with the management to establish flexible processes and goals that helped me and our small team stay focused yet agile. After two years, I had grown my business from 35 to 300 active customers that were placing orders on a regular basis. I'm looking for the same kind of rewarding experience again, and even better, I eventually see myself leading newer sales professionals to the same success."
Written by Rachel Marcelle on February 16th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My goals are very well aligned with your culture and the direction of your company. When I hear you say that you value employees with an entrepreneurial mindset, to me, that means that you are very growth-focused. As a salesperson whose job is to bring revenue to a company, I've experienced both the hunting and farming aspects of sales, but the hunting activities are where growth really comes from. I enjoy being a hunter more than anything. I have taken a number of positions where there were little to no existing sales and called on prospects over and over again until they finally recognized my company's name and felt comfortable enough to buy. My goal after that was to continue to stay in front of those customers and build long-term partnerships, but I never lost focus of going after new opportunities. In my current position, I've increased sales by 10% or more year-over-year. This year I'm on pace to grow my accounts by even more."