Cheat Sheet, a regular series, gives you the rundown on what you need to know before applying to work at the most competitive companies. This week: Be fast on your feet, and understand how a giant retailer works, if you want to craft a social media vision for an organization mecca at the Container Store.
See all the cheat sheets here.
First Round:
15-20 candidates
Thirty- to 60-minute phone screening with a recruiter to gauge the candidate’s digital background and personality. “Are you a runner? A voracious reader? We want to know.”
Second Round:
6-8 candidates
One-hour interview with the vice president of marketing and the online marketing director, who explains the role in depth and asks candidates about their accomplishments and vision for the brand. Expect such questions as, “Which retailer’s social media campaigns do you admire?” Be prepared to give examples.
Third Round:
2-3 candidates
A full day of interviews at the company’s Dallas office with a variety people the candidate would collaborate with, including other vice presidents, the company’s president, and its chief operating officer. Candidates tour the office and distribution center and have a casual lunch with the online creative team.
The Score:
The hiring manager asks stakeholders, including C-suite interviewers, for written opinions on the candidates. Candidates who have had a good influence on their workplaces in the past are prized.
Do show how versatile you are. “Gumby is the Container Store’s unofficial mascot. ... Share examples where you have been flexible in life and work.”
Do mention that summer job folding clothes. “We prefer someone with retail experience because the industry is so unique. Whereas social media skills are transferable.”
Do ask about Web analytics. “It’s music to our ears when we get questions about our metrics, because it shows a strategic mindset.”
Don’t be afraid to offer constructive criticism. “Companies have gaps and need them bridged. Ask about our strengths and explain how you can help in these areas. Everyone wants to be around people who make their lives better.”
Don’t show up unprepared. “Go beyond the website: Read our foundation principles, visit our stores, check out our blog, and follow our social media channels. Research the hiring manager and interview stakeholders through LinkedIn. We expect you to invest time researching if we are the right fit.”
Don’t emphasize your relaxed groove. “In social media, everything happens in real time. We want to know that you can stay on point with our message and respond quickly when dealing with a customer giving feedback online.”
