Marketing can be a highly rewarding, but challenging profession. During a marketing job interview, you’ll be competing against other highly qualified candidates. Therefore, it is crucial you make a strong impression.
Above all else, preparation is key. Preparing for common interview questions will help you feel more confident. So, what are some common marketing interview questions and how do you answer them?
Why do you want to work in marketing?
Interviewers want to see that you are passionate about the marketing industry and meeting the needs of their business. In your answer, explain what motivated you to get into the marketing industry.
Why do you want to work for us?
Employers want to know why you want to work for their company in particular. It’s important to do your research on the company to prepare for this question. A good way to do this is by taking a look at their website and social media.
What do you think about our approach to marketing?
This question is asked by interviewers to test your understanding of the organisation’s goals, audience and constraints. In your answer, avoid criticising the organisation or comparing them to a competitor. Instead, outline what you admire about their current marketing style and why you are enthusiastic to get involved. Mention how you could improve their results or contribute to their success. Preparing for this question requires you to research the company’s background to gain an understanding of its previous marketing campaign.
What is the biggest marketing challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
Marketing roles are often high-pressure. Interviewers assess problem-solving skills and your ability to make quick decisions. Avoid placing blame on others. This demonstrates you are a person who takes responsibility, even if you didn’t cause the original issue.
Describe a successful campaign you worked on
Here, interviewers are looking for a proven track-record of success. In your answer, provide as much detail as possible.
Describe a failed campaign you worked on
Interviewers want to see how you handle failure and respond to your mistakes. In your answer, outline what you learned from the failed campaign and what you would do differently next time.
What is the key to a successful marketing campaign?
Interviewers ask this question to see what your marketing strategy is and whether it aligns with theirs. To answer this question provide examples of campaigns you have previously worked on and outline why you think they were successful.
What changes would you make?
Interviewers ask this question to gauge if you are aware of their marketing challenges. They also want to see if you have a research-based plan to address these challenges. Focus on changes you would implement, rather than changes the business could already implement.
How do you stay up to date with the latest marketing developments?
In the marketing and communication industry, staying up to date with the latest trends is crucial. Therefore, interviewers want to know what you do to keep up to date.
How do you measure the results of a campaign?
Interviewers need to know you can measure whether or not a campaign was successful. Outline the process you follow to determine the success of a campaign.
What marketing tools are you familiar with using?
Many marketing roles require the use of various tools. Interviewers want to know what tools you are proficient in.
Marketing interviews can be challenging. However, with preparation and self-reflection, you can give yourself the best chance of success.
Are you looking for a marketing or communication career? Public Service Resumes can help. We offer various services including interview coaching for marketing professionals.
Article References
Indeed (29 March 2024) ‘Marketing Interview Questions (With Example Answers)’, Indeed, accessed 30 January 2025.
Oddball Marketing (n.d) ‘10 Common Digital Marketing Interview Questions and Why They Are Asked‘, Oddball Marketing, accessed 30 January 2025.