I have worked as a journalist for a long time and in public relations for even longer. I have long since come to the conclusion that there are three types of journalists:
When dealing with a reporter who wants to make a splash, the second most important thing to remember is to have a smart public relations person on staff who knows the area and knows what journalists want.
Some years ago, I set up a “mini-press conference” (also known as a “round table discussion”) for a client with a few reporters I thought were fair-minded. The day before the roundtable, I was told that a well-known reporter I hadn’t invited found out about it and asked if he could be there.
This reporter was obviously trying to get attention, so I told him “no” because I knew the kind of “gotcha” questions he would ask. If one reporter asked those kinds of questions, everyone would have to work together.
That’s why I think the first and most important thing a PR person should learn is how to say “no” to an interview request.
PR people should remember that protecting a client’s reputation is more important than securing a hit. So sometime saying “no” to an interview request is the best public relations advice.
Arthur Solomon was a journalist and SVP/senior counselor at Burson-Marsteller who worked in sports and other sectors. Contact him: arthursolomon4pr@juno. com.
[Editors Note: The writer’s views do not necessarily reflect those of PRNEWS. We invite opposing essays from readers.]
So, you’ve landed an interview at Burson-Marsteller, a renowned global communications and public relations firm. Congratulations! Now it’s time to prepare and showcase your skills to impress the hiring managers. But where do you start?
Don’t worry, hopeful PR professional! This complete guide will give you all the information and tips you need to ace your Burson-Marsteller interview and get your dream job. We’ll talk about the most common interview questions, give you expert advice on how to answer them, and give you links to other useful sites that will help you stand out.
Get Ready to Shine Essential Interview Preparation Tips
Before diving into specific questions, let’s lay the foundation for a successful interview experience. Here are some key preparation tips to keep in mind:
- Research Burson-Marsteller: Immerse yourself in the company’s history, values, mission, and current projects. Understanding their work and culture will demonstrate your genuine interest and allow you to tailor your responses accordingly.
- Review the job description: Pay close attention to the required skills and qualifications listed in the job description. This will guide you in highlighting relevant experiences and demonstrating how you meet the company’s expectations.
- Practice your answers: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions to gain confidence and improve your delivery. This will help you feel more prepared and articulate your thoughts effectively.
- Prepare thoughtful questions: Asking insightful questions about the company, the role, and the team shows your engagement and genuine interest in the opportunity.
- Dress professionally: First impressions matter. Dress professionally and appropriately for the interview, reflecting the company’s culture and your professionalism.
- Arrive on time: Punctuality demonstrates respect and professionalism. Plan your route, factor in potential delays, and aim to arrive a few minutes early.
Unveiling the Secrets Common Burson-Marsteller Interview Questions
Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: the interview questions. Here are some common Burson-Marsteller interview questions, though the exact questions will depend on the job you’re applying for:
General Questions
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Why are you interested in this position?
- Why do you want to work for Burson-Marsteller?
- What are your salary expectations?
PR and Communications-Specific Questions:
- What are your favorite PR campaigns and why?
- How do you stay up-to-date on current events and trends in the communications industry?
- Describe a challenging PR situation you’ve handled and how you resolved it.
- What are your thoughts on the role of social media in PR?
- How do you measure the success of a PR campaign?
Behavioral Questions
- Tell me about a time you had to work under pressure and meet a tight deadline.
- Give an example of a time you had to deal with a difficult client or colleague.
- Describe a situation where you had to use your creativity to solve a problem.
- Tell me about a time you went above and beyond to achieve a goal.
- How do you handle conflict?
Situational Questions
- How would you handle a crisis situation for a client?
- How would you develop a PR strategy for a new product launch?
- How would you manage multiple clients with competing priorities?
- What would you do if you were asked to write a press release on a controversial topic?
- How would you use social media to promote a client’s event?
Expert Tips for Effective Answers:
Now that you know the types of questions to expect, let’s explore how to answer them effectively:
- STAR Method: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses to behavioral and situational questions. This approach helps you provide clear and concise examples of your skills and experiences.
- Highlight Your Skills and Experiences: Tailor your responses to showcase the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities and how you’ve applied them in the past.
- Show Your Passion and Enthusiasm: Let your passion for PR and communications shine through. Express your genuine interest in the role and the company.
- Be Confident and Positive: Maintain a confident and positive attitude throughout the interview. This will make a strong impression on the hiring managers.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions: Prepare insightful questions about the company, the role, and the team to show your engagement and genuine interest in the opportunity.
Additional Resources to Enhance Your Preparation:
To further enhance your preparation, consider these valuable resources:
- Burson-Marsteller website: Explore the company’s website to learn more about their history, values, services, and current projects.
- Glassdoor: Read reviews and interview questions from past Burson-Marsteller candidates to gain insights into the interview process.
- PR industry websites and blogs: Stay up-to-date on current trends and best practices in the PR industry by reading relevant articles and blogs.
- Mock interviews: Practice your interview skills with a friend or career counselor to receive feedback and improve your responses.
Remember, preparation is key to success. By following these tips and utilizing the provided resources, you’ll be well-equipped to ace your Burson-Marsteller interview and land your dream job in the exciting world of public relations.
Mark Schaefer interviews David Rosen of Burson Marsteller
FAQ
What is the best answer for “Tell me about yourself”?
How to pass a banking interview?
Why do you want to work here?
How to answer what can you contribute to this company?
