Preparing for a job interview is a challenging but necessary task. Marketing interviews are certainly no different, and with competition for these sorts of jobs on the rise, you'll definitely want to stand out from the crowd as the top candidate.
The following article will give advice on some of the best things you can do ahead of your marketing job interview to make sure you stand the best possible chance of landing the job and joining the company's marketing team.
Do Your Research
The more you know about the company you are interviewing for before you set foot in the interview room, the better. Make sure to do your research before the day and know as much as you possibly can.
The more details you have at your disposal to reel off during the interview, the better. The hiring manager will take note of your preparation and initiative for the marketing role.
Prove You're Creative
It's a good idea to show your creative side during a marketing interview. An easy way to do this is to bring some samples along with you if you can.
Show how you can think outside the box. Your answers will have more credibility if you can back up your claims and you will look like a stronger candidate as a result.
Instead of going through the regular questions and answers routine, prepare some more inventive ways to answer the typical questions you're likely to be asked. Getting ready for interview questions and answers ahead of time gives you a nice advantage when dealing with marketing interview questions.
Brand Yourself on Social Media
The perfect way to prove your marketing credentials is to be able to properly brand yourself. If you can't market yourself on social media platforms, you'll automatically lose some credibility in your marketing interview.
By doing a good job marketing yourself and creating your own marketing campaign, you'll be displaying an array of valuable skills to the hiring manager. These include knowing and understanding your target market, being competent on social media platforms, and displaying the ability to construct a marketing strategy.
Dress Appropriately
This is an obvious tip for any job candidate, but it's worth saying. It's important to dress not only for the interview but for the job you're after.
You can even match your outfit to the company's brand. This is a subtle but effective way to show that you 'get what they're about'. It'll show the marketing manager that you're a candidate with the ability to adapt.
Be Engaged and Inquisitive
It's a great idea to take notes during a marketing position interview. By doing so, you're not only showing that you're listening but you're preparing yourself to ask questions later in the interview.
Marketing candidates should keep in mind that being engaged and interested in the role will show the interviewer that you are not simply there to go through the questions and answers process and be on your way. Serious candidates ask a follow up question to marketing interview questions that probe the marketing manager for more information about the position or project team.
Ask specific questions to show that you did your research and you are not just trying to score brownie points from the interviewer. If your interview is not entirely made up of marketing interview questions, you're likely doing something right. Hiring managers show interest in candidates that they think would make great team members or marketers.
It's All About Confidence
Confidence is invaluable in all job interviews, whether it's in the marketing field or anywhere else. The more prepared you are, the easier it'll be to project confidence as a marketing candidate.
Being confident with good communication skills will give you the opportunity to answer the marketing interview questions without breaking a sweat and will show the hiring manager that you know what you are talking about. If you do the requisite research, you can approach any marketing interview question with authority, whether it be about a social media marketing or the company's target customer market.
Thank You Notes Are a Nice Touch
Interview questions and answers are the bread and butter of the process but the garnish is a thank you note. It doesn't take much time or effort to send a thank you note, but it could give you that little bit of extra help that allows you to secure the job opportunity. A quick note that thanks the interviewer for their time and expresses your desire to have a career in marketing with the company will suffice.
Any specifics from the interviewer to help you stand out is a plus. Express your interest in a marketing career with them and why you feel you're the best candidate, and then express your appreciation.
The Bottom Line
A marketing interview is just like a regular interview in most ways. Follow all the fundamentals like preparing and being confident and you'll be well on your way. The above advice is a great starting point and taking any of it on board will no doubt improve your prospects when it comes to the marketing interview.
Whether you plan to explore marketing trends, expand their social media presence, boost their social media channels, create a new marketing plan or social media strategy, or provide content marketing, be sure to communicate clearly and confidently and you'll have a strong foundation for passing the job interview. With the right strategy, skills, and a goal in clear sight, you can potentially ace your next marketing interview.
