20 Estée Lauder Companies Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviews, Estée Lauder Companies is looking for candidates who are passionate about the beauty industry, have a strong customer service orientation, and are able to think creatively to solve problems. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of sample Estée Lauder Companies interview questions and answers.

Estée Lauder Companies Interview Process

The interview process at Estée Lauder Companies can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one phone screen and one in-person interview. For some positions, you may be asked to complete a project as part of the interview process. Overall, the interview process is professional and informative, and candidates should expect to wait up to several weeks for feedback after their interviews.

1. What do you know about the Estee Lauder Companies?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company and its products. It also allows you to show that you have researched the organization before applying for the position. When preparing for this question, make sure to read through the job description and familiarize yourself with the responsibilities of the role.

Example: “I know that Estee Lauder Companies is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of skincare products in the world. I am very interested in working for such an innovative company because it would allow me to use my creativity and problem-solving skills on a daily basis. I also know that the company has several brands under its umbrella, including MAC Cosmetics, Clinique, Aveda, Tom Ford Beauty, Prescriptives, La Mer, Bobbi Brown, Donna Karan New York, Jo Malone London, Viktor & Rolf, Le Labo, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle, GLAMGLOW, By Kilian, Bumble and bumble, and Too Faced.”

2. Why would you like to work for the company?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know that you’ve done some research on the organization and are genuinely interested in working there. When preparing an answer, make sure to highlight any specific aspects of the company that appeal to you.

Example: “I would love to work for Estée Lauder Companies because I am so impressed by the brand’s commitment to quality products and customer service. Your brands have been around for decades, which shows how well-loved they are. I also really like the idea of being part of a family business. It seems like everyone here has a genuine connection with one another.”

3. How would you describe your customer service style?

Estée Lauder Companies is looking for candidates who can provide excellent customer service to their clients. Your answer should show that you are a friendly and empathetic person who wants to help others.

Example: “I believe in treating customers with respect, empathy and patience. I know how frustrating it can be when something goes wrong with a product or order, so I always try my best to make sure the situation gets resolved as quickly as possible. I also like to surprise customers with small gifts or discounts on their next purchase.”

4. Have you ever worked in a retail environment before?

This question is often asked to determine if you have experience working with customers and how well you can interact with them. If you haven’t worked in retail before, consider describing a time when you interacted with customers or clients in another capacity.

Example: “I’ve never worked in a retail environment before, but I do have experience interacting with customers as a server at my local restaurant. There were times when the restaurant was very busy and I had to help multiple tables at once. This helped me develop skills that would be beneficial for this position.”

5. What is your experience with sales and marketing?

Estee Lauder Companies is a large company that needs employees who can work well with others and have experience in sales and marketing. When answering this question, it’s important to show your ability to collaborate with other team members and discuss how you’ve used your skills to help the company sell its products.

Example: “I worked as an assistant manager at my local Sephora for two years before I applied here. During that time, I learned about different types of makeup and skincare products and how to apply them. I also gained valuable experience working with customers and helping them find the right products for their skin type.”

6. Tell me about your experience working with makeup, skincare products, or fragrances.

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have experience with their products and can apply your skills in a work environment. If you don’t have any direct experience, consider describing how you would use these products or what you like about them.

Example: “I’ve used Estée Lauder makeup for years because I love the way it makes me look and feel. My favorite product is the Double Wear foundation because it’s long-lasting and covers my blemishes without looking too heavy on my skin. As for skincare, I really enjoy using the Advanced Night Repair Serum because it helps reduce redness and irritation from my breakouts.”

7. Describe a time when you had to manage multiple tasks at once.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your time and manage competing deadlines. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your ability to multitask, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Example: “In my last role as a marketing manager for a small business, I had to balance multiple projects at once while also managing client expectations. One of my clients was in need of an updated website design, so I worked with our web development team to create a new website that met all of their needs. In addition to this project, I also managed several other marketing campaigns including social media content creation, email marketing and public relations.”

8. Do you have any management experience?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your management style and how you’ve used it in the past. If you have previous management experience, share what you did as a manager that helped your team succeed.

Example: “I’ve had several management roles throughout my career, including managing a small team of salespeople at my last job. I was responsible for creating weekly goals for my team members and helping them achieve those goals by providing guidance and feedback on their performance. I also held monthly meetings with my team where we discussed our progress and any concerns they may have had.”

9. What are some of your favorite brands that we carry?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the Estée Lauder Companies brand and how it compares to other brands. It also shows that you have experience with similar products, which can be beneficial if you’re applying for a position in sales or marketing.

Example: “I love the quality of Clinique’s skincare line. I’ve used their products before and they really helped my skin stay clear and healthy. I also think MAC Cosmetics has some amazing makeup options. Their lipsticks are so vibrant and long-lasting. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new lipstick.”

10. How well do you work under pressure?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a time you faced a tight deadline and how you managed the situation.

Example: “I thrive under pressure because I know that it’s an opportunity for me to prove myself. In my last role as a makeup artist, I had a client who was running late for her wedding. She called me while I was getting ready for work and asked if I could come to her house to do her makeup. I told her I would be there within 30 minutes. I quickly gathered all of my supplies and drove to her home. It took me two hours to get everything done, but she looked beautiful on her wedding day.”

11. When was the last time you dealt with an unhappy customer? How did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle conflict and whether or not you have experience resolving customer complaints. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide a specific example of when you helped resolve an issue with a customer and what steps you took to ensure they were satisfied with your response.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job as a makeup artist, I had a client who was unhappy with her makeup application after a photo shoot. She said that she felt like her makeup looked too heavy in some photos and asked if I could fix it before we sent them out for publication. I apologized for the inconvenience and offered to redo her makeup completely free of charge. After applying new makeup, I showed her several different pictures so she could choose which ones we should send out.”

12. Would you be comfortable working on commission?

This question is a way for employers to learn more about your work ethic and how you handle financial rewards. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention that you are motivated by money or other incentives.

Example: “I am definitely motivated by commission, however I also understand the importance of doing my job well regardless of whether or not I’m being rewarded financially. In my last position, I was working on commission and I did my best to sell as much product as possible because I knew that would help me earn more money at the end of the month. However, I always made sure to provide excellent customer service no matter what.”

13. What qualities should a good manager possess?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you have management experience and can apply your skills to this role. When answering, think about what qualities you possess as a manager and how they would benefit this position.

Example: “A good manager should be able to communicate effectively with their team members. They should also be organized and detail-oriented so they can keep track of important information and deadlines. A strong leader should also be confident in themselves and their abilities so they can inspire others to do their best work.”

14. What is your availability like and which shift would you prefer to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re available for the hours they need and that your schedule fits with their needs. Before your interview, check out the company’s website or job listing to see which shifts are available. If you can’t find any information about availability, call the HR department and ask them directly.

Example: “I’m available to work any shift between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. I prefer working during the day because I enjoy interacting with customers and helping them find products that suit their needs.”

15. Are you familiar with our product lines & services?

Estée Lauder Companies has a wide variety of products and services, so it’s important that the interviewer knows you’re familiar with their offerings. Use your answer to highlight any experience you have using or selling these products and services.

Example: “I’ve used many of Estee Lauder Companies’ products in my previous positions, including Clinique makeup and skincare products, Aramis fragrances and hair care products, and Aveda hair care products. I also had an opportunity to sell some of these products at my last job, which helped me learn more about the company and its brands.”

16. What are some key attributes you think make up a successful beauty advisor?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your qualifications for the position. Use examples from your experience to highlight key skills and abilities that you think are important in this role.

Example: “I believe that being personable, knowledgeable about products and services, friendly and outgoing are all essential qualities of a successful beauty advisor. I have always been passionate about makeup and skincare products, so I am constantly researching new brands and techniques to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. I also love helping others feel confident and beautiful, which is why I enjoy working as a beauty advisor.”

17. If hired, how would you contribute to the success of this position?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer how your skills and experience can benefit their company. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your relevant qualifications and how they will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I am a highly motivated individual who always strives for excellence. I believe that my strong work ethic and attention to detail would be beneficial to this position because I would use these qualities to ensure all of my projects are completed on time and within budget. My communication skills also make me a valuable asset to any team. If hired, I would use these skills to collaborate with my colleagues and communicate effectively with clients.”

18. Which area of beauty are you most interested in?

This question is a great way to show your passion for the beauty industry. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention an area of beauty that you are passionate about and why.

Example: “I am most interested in hair care products because I have always had trouble finding a product that works well with my hair type. I would love to work at Estée Lauder Companies so I could help others find the right hair care products for their unique needs.”

19. What motivates you to succeed?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personal values and how they align with the company’s. When you answer, think about what motivates you in your daily life. Consider mentioning a specific example of when you were motivated by something or someone.

Example: “I am motivated by my family. I grew up in a small town where everyone knew each other. My parents owned a local restaurant, so we spent most of our time there. They worked hard every day, and I saw that as motivation to work hard myself. In high school, I got a job at the restaurant and learned everything from how to make coffee to how to cook. Now, I’m a barista at a local coffee shop.”

20. Can you tell me about a time where you were able to persuade someone to change their mind about something?

This question can help the interviewer understand how persuasive you are and whether or not you have experience working with others. Use examples from your past where you were able to persuade someone to change their mind about something, even if it was a small thing.

Example: “In my previous role as an assistant manager at a retail store, I had a customer who came into the store looking for a specific product that we didn’t carry in our inventory. Instead of telling her we didn’t have what she wanted, I asked her more questions about what she needed so I could find a similar product that would work for her needs. She ended up buying one of our products that was very similar to the one she was looking for.”