Unilever Intern - Sales and Marketing Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
,
1

Unilever Intern - Sales and Marketing Interview Questions & Experience Guide

2

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - One-on-one Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Personal details and work experience.

  • Your Approach:

    • I focused on being honest and transparent about my background and experiences. I highlighted relevant skills and how they align with the role.

  • Outcome:

    • [Outcome not specified]

Preparation Tips:

  • Always be honest and keep working hard.
  • Review common sales and marketing interview questions to prepare effectively.

Conclusion:

[Conclusion not provided]

3

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied via Naukri.com and was interviewed in May 2021.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. What is the tough thing in the market?
      2. Trust
    • Your Approach: I focused on providing clear and concise answers, highlighting my understanding of market challenges and the importance of trust in sales and marketing.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

  • Round 2 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: [Details not provided]
    • Your Approach: Actively participated, shared relevant insights, and ensured my points were aligned with the discussion topic.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round.

  • Round 3 - Interview:

    • Questions Asked: [Details not provided]
    • Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly by researching Unilever’s sales and marketing strategies and aligning my responses with the company’s values.
    • Outcome: [Not specified]

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on understanding market challenges and how trust plays a role in sales and marketing.
  • Research the company’s sales and marketing strategies thoroughly.
  • Be prepared to discuss your unique qualities and why you are a good fit for the role.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was insightful and challenging. I learned the importance of being well-prepared and aligning my responses with the company’s values. For future candidates, I would recommend thorough research on the company and practicing common interview questions to build confidence.

4

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied via walk-in before March 2020.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: No specific questions were mentioned.

  • Your Approach: The interview was sales-related and lasted about 40 minutes. I focused on showcasing my knowledge and skills relevant to sales and marketing.

  • Outcome: [Not specified]

  • Round 2 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: [Not specified]

  • Your Approach: [Not specified]

  • Outcome: [Not specified]

  • Round 3 - [Round Type Not Specified]:

  • Questions Asked: [Not specified]

  • Your Approach: [Not specified]

  • Outcome: [Not specified]

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on sales-related knowledge and skills.
  • Be prepared for a 40-minute interview session.
  • Research Hindustan Unilever’s sales and marketing strategies.

Conclusion:
The interview was a good learning experience, especially in understanding the expectations for a sales and marketing role. I would advise future candidates to thoroughly prepare for sales-related questions and be confident in their responses.

5

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Company Interaction (PPT Session):

    • Questions Asked: The session was interactive and insightful, focusing on company presentations.
    • Your Approach: Actively engaged in the session to understand the company’s operations and culture.
    • Outcome: Successfully moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked: A one-pager case study was provided about an FMCG company facing declining sales of toothbrushes and toothpaste. The task was to devise a strategy to improve sales.
    • Your Approach: Quickly analyzed the case, identified key issues, and collaborated with the group (around 10 members) to brainstorm solutions within the 10-minute discussion time.
    • Outcome: Presented a coherent strategy and advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Personal Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Why Marketing?
      • What do you know about Colgate Palmolive?
      • Biggest failure in your life (emphasized as a significant failure).
      • Biggest achievement in your life.
      • Questions about family and their professions.
      • Personality-based questions (handling pressure, dealing with people, personal traits).
      • Marketing plan for a simple product launch.
    • Your Approach: Answered confidently, linked personal experiences to the role, and demonstrated marketing knowledge.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Interactions: Engage with seniors for insights and mock GDs/PIs.
  2. Resources: Study Kotler, practice cases with peers, stay updated on current affairs, and analyze ads online.
  3. Practice: Regular case study practice is crucial.

Conclusion:
The interview process was well-structured and insightful. The case study round was challenging due to the limited time, but teamwork helped. The personal interview tested both technical and personality aspects. Practicing cases and staying updated on industry trends were key to success. For future candidates, focus on clear communication, teamwork, and thorough preparation.

6

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through on-campus recruiting. The interviewers were friendly and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on the company culture. This was my second time interviewing with them, and unfortunately, they never got back to me after the interview, which was frustrating.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - On-Campus Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The questions were focused on understanding my interest in sales and marketing, my knowledge about Unilever, and how I align with their values. They also asked about my previous experiences and how they relate to the role.
    • Your Approach: I tried to stay calm and confident, highlighting my passion for marketing and my understanding of Unilever’s brand portfolio. I also shared relevant experiences from my past internships and projects.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, but I did not receive any feedback or further communication from the company.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview experience was positive in terms of interaction with the interviewers, but the lack of follow-up was disappointing. For future candidates, I would recommend thoroughly researching Unilever’s products and values, as they seem to prioritize cultural fit. Also, be prepared for potential delays in communication and manage expectations accordingly.

7

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (via campus placement)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      • ABC condoms have high brand awareness in the country and are also of high quality, but have low sales since local companies are setting up deals with distributors who prefer the latter to ABC. How do you increase sales, and how do you allocate budgets for the same?
    • Your Approach:
      • Analyzed the problem by identifying the key issues: distributor preferences and local competition. Proposed strategies like incentivizing distributors, improving retailer margins, and targeted marketing campaigns to boost sales. Allocated budgets based on ROI potential for each strategy.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me something about yourself.
      2. Describe your work experience and related questions (clients, markets, timeline, campaigns, challenges, use of data, platforms, and tools known).
      3. Search funnel for a product, market share/search impression share of the client vs. competitor.
      4. Any questions for us?
    • Your Approach:
      • Prepared a concise introduction highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Detailed work experience with specific examples of successful campaigns and challenges faced. Researched the company’s market position and competitors to answer the search funnel question. Asked insightful questions about the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Why marketing?
      2. What do you prefer - brand marketing, digital, sales, etc.?
      3. How does sales fit into your goals?
      4. How would you interact with subordinates who are elder to you?
      5. What if a subordinate isn’t delivering results on time?
      6. Still isn’t working despite warnings?
    • Your Approach:
      • Articulated passion for marketing with examples of past experiences. Explained preference for a specific area (e.g., brand marketing) and how sales aligns with career goals. Demonstrated leadership and conflict-resolution skills in handling subordinates.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the final round.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Research the company website and product list thoroughly.
  2. Be well-versed with details regarding your work experience.
  3. Use the internet to gather insights about the company’s market position and competitors.

Conclusion:
The interview process was rigorous but well-structured. The case study round tested problem-solving skills, while the HR rounds assessed fit and leadership potential. Preparing thoroughly about the company and reflecting on past experiences helped immensely. For future candidates, focus on clear communication, practical problem-solving, and aligning your goals with the company’s vision.

8

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: Situation-based GD to select a leader consensually. The scenario involved a plane crash, and we were given character sketches of 5 individuals to choose one leader from.
    • Your Approach: Focused on active listening, contributing logically, and ensuring the group arrived at a consensus.
    • Outcome: Successfully passed the round by facilitating a balanced discussion and consensus.

  • Round 2 - Guesstimates and HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell us about yourself (emphasis on family background).
      2. Estimate the number of premium perfume bottles sold in Lucknow for ITC’s Engage range.
      3. Why ITC?
      4. What are the new trends in the FMCG sector?
      5. How is societal marketing relevant to consumers?
      6. Describe a situation of conflict you faced and your actions in response.
      7. How do you feel about ITC creating value while also selling cigarettes?
    • Your Approach: Prepared answers for HR questions, structured guesstimates logically, and linked responses to marketing principles.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round with positive feedback on clarity and confidence.

Preparation Tips:

  • Be confident and know yourself thoroughly; HR answers are crucial.
  • Prepare for at least 2 domains to handle worst-case scenarios.
  • Avoid information overload; focus on relevant parts.
  • Engage in mock GDs and interviews.
  • Research the company website and latest news.
  • For marketing, refer to Kotler as a key resource.

Conclusion:
The interview process was insightful and challenging. The GD round tested teamwork and decision-making, while the guesstimates and HR round assessed analytical and communication skills. Preparing thoroughly and staying calm were key. For future candidates, focus on clarity, confidence, and understanding the company’s values and trends in the FMCG sector.

9

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied via walk-in.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

    • Experience: Freshers to an MBA college are often preferred for sales and marketing roles. I was shortlisted based on my academic background, extracurricular activities, positions of responsibility (PORs), and being a fresher.
    • Tips: Ensure your CV highlights your achievements and maintains a balance between academics and extracurricular activities.

  • Round 2 - Group Discussion (GD):

    • Experience: The GD was about the culture, placements, and education system of IIM Calcutta. There were 8 members in my group, and we had a 20-minute healthy discussion, culminating in a decision.
    • Tips: Stay calm, contribute 2-3 unique points, and avoid interrupting others unnecessarily.

  • Round 3 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Develop a Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy for BQC in India.
      • Develop a strategy to increase women viewership of cricket.
      • Interpret and critique advertisements (best and worst ads).
    • Your Approach: Since I had quizzing and cricket in my CV, I leveraged my knowledge to answer the GTM strategy questions. For ad interpretation, I analyzed the ads critically.
    • Outcome: The interview went well as I could answer all questions confidently.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on technical concepts like STP, 4P, 5C, and GTM for sales and marketing roles.
  • Practice interpreting advertisements and developing strategies for real-world scenarios.
  • Stay composed and understand the questions thoroughly before answering.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was balanced and insightful. Being a fresher, I emphasized my academic and extracurricular strengths. The key takeaway is to stay calm, prepare well for technical aspects, and present your CV effectively. For future candidates, focus on clarity, confidence, and relevance in your responses.

10

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Application Process: I applied online and received an email to complete a Digital Interview after successfully passing the online aptitude test. I’m excited to start the interview process and hopeful for a positive outcome.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Digital Interview:
  • Questions Asked: The questions were behavioral and situational, focusing on teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
  • Your Approach: I prepared by researching common behavioral questions and practiced structuring my answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  • Outcome: Waiting for feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s values and recent campaigns to align your answers with their culture.
  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Stay calm and confident during the interview.

Conclusion:
I’m optimistic about the process and believe preparation is key. I’ll update once I receive feedback!

11

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (Campus Placement)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: Should CSR be the mandate of corporations?

  • Your Approach: I focused on presenting a balanced view, highlighting the benefits of CSR for both corporations and society while acknowledging potential challenges. I emphasized real-world examples to support my points.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

  • Round 2 - Case-Based Questions:

  • Questions Asked:

    1. If you were Amazon, what business opportunity would you leverage in India?
    2. If you were PM of the country, what policy would you implement? What have you done during your college life?

  • Your Approach: For the Amazon question, I discussed leveraging India’s e-commerce growth and local partnerships. For the PM question, I proposed a policy on skill development and linked it to my college initiatives.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - HR Round:

  • Questions Asked: CV and HR-based questions specific to my background.

  • Your Approach: I ensured my answers were concise and aligned with my experiences and skills mentioned in my CV. I also highlighted my adaptability and teamwork.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Tell your unique story without any apologies.
  2. Research the company thoroughly, especially using the internet for up-to-date information.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. The key was staying confident and backing my answers with logical reasoning. I could have prepared more case studies for the second round, but overall, it was a great learning experience. For future candidates, I’d advise practicing GDs and case-based questions extensively and being authentic in the HR round.

12

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (Campus Placement)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: “Has the Modi government created the impact that it promised to?”
    • Your Approach: I focused on presenting a balanced view, highlighting both achievements and areas where the government could improve. I ensured my points were backed by data and current affairs knowledge.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - One-on-One Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Share about your work experience.
      3. Why do you want to join sales and marketing when you are in the consulting club of IIML? Is it because you didn’t get into any day zero companies?
      4. Tell me your favorite brand.
      5. Why is it your favorite?
      6. Which is your favorite ad of Bru?
      7. Why were you interested in the social sector?
      8. Do you have any questions for me?
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and aligned with my interest in sales and marketing. For the question about the consulting club, I emphasized my passion for marketing and how it aligns with my long-term goals.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Case Study:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Why you chose HUL? Why Sales & Marketing?
      3. What would you prefer if two options are given—to increase the quantity by 100 MG and price Dove at 70 or reduce the quantity and price it lower than now, somewhere around 40?
      4. If I give you 10 crores, how do you plan on spending it? You can do anything with it. Give me the action steps. You could even travel round the world.
    • Your Approach: For the pricing question, I analyzed the trade-offs between volume and price elasticity. For the 10 crores question, I proposed a mix of personal development and investment in a marketing startup.
    • Outcome: Final selection for the internship.

Preparation Tips:

  • Interactions with seniors for insights.
  • Mock GDs and PIs to practice articulation and case-solving skills.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but rewarding. I realized the importance of clarity in communication and aligning my answers with the role’s requirements. For future candidates, I’d advise thorough preparation on current affairs, marketing concepts, and practicing case studies.

13

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process:
The application process began with an online submission, including a resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas. This was followed by a video interview conducted via HireVue, which lasted 20 minutes and included 4 behavioral questions. The final stage was a selection day/assessment center, which spanned 5 hours and consisted of 2 interviews, 1 case study, and 1 group discussion.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Video Interview (HireVue):

    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions focusing on teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
    • Your Approach:
      • I prepared by reviewing common behavioral interview questions and using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure my answers. I also practiced speaking clearly and concisely for the video format.
    • Outcome:
      • Successfully advanced to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Assessment Center:

    • Components:

      1. Interview with Brand Manager:
      • Questions Asked:
        • Questions about my understanding of sales and marketing, my previous experiences, and how I would handle specific scenarios.
      • Your Approach:
        • I highlighted my relevant coursework and any hands-on experience I had in marketing or sales. I also researched Unilever’s brands to tailor my answers.
      • Outcome:
        • Positive feedback on my enthusiasm and preparation.
      1. Case Study (Marketing Strategy for Detergent):
      • Task:
        • Develop a marketing strategy for a new detergent product.
      • Your Approach:
        • I structured my approach by analyzing the target market, identifying key competitors, and proposing a unique selling proposition. I also included a brief budget and timeline.
      • Outcome:
        • The evaluators appreciated my creativity and logical framework.
      1. Group Discussion (Assigned Roles):
      • Task:
        • Discuss a given topic while adhering to assigned roles.
      • Your Approach:
        • I focused on active listening, contributing constructively, and ensuring the discussion stayed on track. I also made sure to respect my assigned role.
      • Outcome:
        • The group worked well together, and I received positive remarks for my collaboration skills.

Preparation Tips:

  • Behavioral Questions: Practice the STAR method to structure your answers clearly.
  • Case Studies: Familiarize yourself with basic marketing frameworks (e.g., SWOT analysis, 4Ps).
  • Group Discussions: Work on active listening and constructive participation.
  • Research: Understand Unilever’s brands and recent marketing campaigns.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was intense but rewarding. I felt well-prepared for the behavioral and case study components, but I could have practiced more for the group discussion to better adapt to my assigned role. My advice for future candidates is to thoroughly research the company and practice all components of the assessment center to build confidence.

14

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (Campus Placement)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

    • Topic: “Has the Modi government created the impact that it promised to?”
    • Your Approach: I focused on presenting balanced arguments, highlighting both achievements and areas where the government could improve. I ensured active participation while respecting others’ viewpoints.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - One-on-One Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Share about your work experience.
      3. Why do you want to join sales and marketing when you are in the consulting club of IIML? Is it because you didn’t get into any day zero companies?
      4. Tell me your favorite brand.
      5. Why is it your favorite?
      6. Which is your favorite ad of Bru?
      7. Why were you interested in the social sector?
      8. Do you have any questions for me?
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly, aligning my responses with my passion for sales and marketing. For the consulting club question, I explained how my interest in sales and marketing is independent of my club involvement.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Case Study:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Why you chose HUL? Why Sales & Marketing?
      3. What would you prefer if two options are given—to increase the quantity by 100 MG and price Dove at 70 or reduce the quantity and price it lower than now, somewhere around 40?
      4. If I give you 10 crores, how do you plan on spending it? You can do anything with it. Give me the action steps. You could even travel round the world.
    • Your Approach: For the pricing question, I analyzed the trade-offs between quantity and price, considering market positioning. For the 10-crore question, I proposed a mix of personal development and investment in a startup idea.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round and secured the internship.

Preparation Tips:

  • Interactions with seniors helped me understand the company’s expectations.
  • Mock GDs and PIs were crucial for building confidence and refining my communication skills.

Conclusion:
The interview process was rigorous but insightful. I realized the importance of clarity in expressing my career choices and the ability to think on my feet during case studies. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation on industry trends and practicing case studies to handle such scenarios effectively.

15

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Application Process:
The application process began with an online submission, including my resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas. This was followed by a video interview conducted via HireVue, which lasted 20 minutes and included 4 behavioral questions. The final stage was an assessment day, which spanned 5 hours and consisted of 2 interviews, 1 case study, and 1 group discussion.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Video Interview (HireVue):

    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions focusing on teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
    • Your Approach:
      • I prepared by reflecting on past experiences that demonstrated these skills and structured my answers using the STAR method.
    • Outcome:
      • Successfully advanced to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Assessment Day:

    • Interviews with Brand Managers:
      • Questions Asked:
        • Questions about my understanding of sales and marketing, my motivation for the role, and how I handle challenges.
      • Your Approach:
        • I researched Unilever’s brands and recent campaigns to align my answers with their business goals.
      • Outcome:
        • Received positive feedback on my enthusiasm and preparation.
    • Case Study (Marketing Strategy for Detergent):
      • Task:
        • Develop a marketing strategy for a new detergent product.
      • Your Approach:
        • I analyzed the target market, identified key competitors, and proposed a multi-channel marketing plan.
      • Outcome:
        • The evaluators appreciated my structured approach and creativity.
    • Group Discussion (Assigned Roles):
      • Task:
        • Discuss a given topic while adhering to assigned roles.
      • Your Approach:
        • I focused on active listening, contributing constructively, and ensuring the discussion stayed on track.
      • Outcome:
        • The group dynamics were strong, and I received positive remarks for my collaboration skills.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s brands, values, and recent campaigns thoroughly.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Familiarize yourself with case study frameworks for marketing strategies.
  • Work on group discussion skills, especially active listening and role adherence.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was intense but rewarding. I learned the importance of thorough preparation and adaptability during assessments. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing case studies and group discussions in advance to build confidence. Staying calm and being yourself also goes a long way!

16

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (via campus placement)

Application Process: Applied through campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      • ABC condoms have high brand awareness in the country and are also of high quality, but have low sales since local companies are setting up deals with distributors who are preferring the latter to ABC. How do you increase sales, and how do you allocate budgets for the same?
    • Your Approach:
      • Analyzed the problem by identifying the root cause (distributor preferences for local brands). Proposed strategies like incentivizing distributors, improving retailer margins, and targeted marketing campaigns to boost ABC condoms’ sales. Budget allocation was suggested based on ROI for each strategy.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me something about yourself.
      2. Describe your work experience and related questions (e.g., clients and markets, timeline of work-ex, types of campaigns, most successful campaign, challenges, use of data, platforms worked & tools known).
      3. Search funnel for a product, market share/search impression share of the client vs competitor.
      4. Any questions for us?
    • Your Approach:
      • Prepared a concise self-introduction highlighting relevant skills and experiences. For work experience, focused on quantifiable achievements and learnings. Researched Unilever’s market position and competitors to answer the search funnel question. Asked insightful questions about the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Why marketing?
      2. What do you prefer - brand marketing, digital, sales, etc.?
      3. How does sales fit into your goals?
      4. How would you interact with subordinates who are elder to you?
      5. What if a subordinate isn’t delivering results on time?
      6. Still isn’t working despite warnings?
    • Your Approach:
      • Articulated passion for marketing with examples. Aligned preferences with Unilever’s needs. Emphasized teamwork and respect for hierarchy when dealing with elder subordinates. Proposed constructive solutions for underperforming subordinates.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Research the company website and product list thoroughly.
  2. Be well-versed with details regarding your work experience.
  3. Use the internet to understand industry trends and case study frameworks.

Conclusion:
The interview process was insightful and tested both analytical and interpersonal skills. The case study round was challenging but manageable with structured thinking. Preparing for HR questions in advance helped in answering confidently. For future candidates, focus on clarity in communication and aligning your answers with the company’s values and goals.

17

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: “Has the Modi government created the impact that it promised to?”
    • Your Approach: I focused on presenting a balanced view, highlighting both achievements and areas where the government could improve. I made sure to listen actively to others and contribute constructively.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - One-on-One Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Share about your work experience.
      3. Why do you want to join sales and marketing when you are in the consulting club of IIML? Is it because you didn’t get into any day zero companies?
      4. Tell me your favorite brand.
      5. Why is it your favorite?
      6. Which is your favorite ad of Bru?
      7. Why were you interested in the social sector?
      8. Do you have any questions for me?
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly, linking my experiences to my interest in sales and marketing. For the favorite brand question, I chose a brand I genuinely admire and explained why. I also prepared a few questions to ask the interviewer about the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me about yourself.
      2. Why you chose HUL? Why Sales & Marketing?
      3. What would you prefer if two options are given—to increase the quantity by 100 MG and price Dove at 70 or reduce the quantity and price it lower than now, somewhere around 40?
      4. If I give you 10 crores, how do you plan on spending it? You can do anything with it. Give me the action steps. You could even travel round the world.
    • Your Approach: I structured my answers logically, especially for the case study questions. For the 10-crore question, I proposed a mix of personal and professional investments, aligning with my long-term goals.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round and secured the internship.

Preparation Tips:

  • Interactions with seniors helped me understand the company’s expectations.
  • Mock GDs and PIs were invaluable for practicing under simulated conditions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but rewarding. I learned the importance of staying calm and thinking on my feet, especially during the case study round. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation for both technical and behavioral questions, and to always be authentic in your responses.

18

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Not specified

Application Process:
The application process began with an online submission, including a resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas. This was followed by a video interview conducted via HireVue, which lasted 20 minutes and included 4 behavioral questions. The final step was an assessment day, which spanned 5 hours and consisted of two interviews, one case study, and one group discussion.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Application:

  • Questions Asked: Submission of resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas.

  • Your Approach: Ensured all documents were up-to-date and tailored to the role. Highlighted relevant experiences and skills.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round (video interview).

  • Round 2 - Video Interview (HireVue):

  • Questions Asked: 4 behavioral questions (specific questions not provided).

  • Your Approach: Prepared by researching common behavioral questions and practicing responses. Focused on clear, concise answers with examples from past experiences.

  • Outcome: Successfully passed and invited to the assessment day.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Day:

  • Interview with Brand Manager:

    • Questions Asked: Not specified.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by reviewing the company’s values and recent campaigns. Aimed to align responses with Unilever’s brand philosophy.
    • Outcome: Feedback was positive, but specifics were not provided.

  • Case Study (Marketing Strategy for Detergent):

    • Questions Asked: Develop a marketing strategy for a detergent product.
    • Your Approach: Analyzed the target audience, competitive landscape, and potential marketing channels. Proposed a creative and data-driven strategy.
    • Outcome: Felt confident about the solution, but no specific feedback was given.

  • Group Discussion (Assigned Roles):

    • Questions Asked: Not specified.
    • Your Approach: Played the assigned role actively, contributed ideas, and ensured collaboration within the group.
    • Outcome: The discussion went smoothly, but no detailed feedback was provided.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, especially its brands and recent campaigns.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • For case studies, focus on structuring your thoughts clearly and logically.
  • In group discussions, balance participation with listening to others.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was challenging but rewarding. The assessment day was intense, but it provided a great opportunity to showcase skills and learn more about Unilever’s work culture. If I could do anything differently, I would prepare more case studies in advance to feel even more confident. My advice for future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and thoroughly research the company and role.

19

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow (Campus Placement)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIM Lucknow.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      • ABC condoms have high brand awareness in the country and are also of high quality, but have low sales since local companies are setting up deals with distributors who are preferring the latter to ABC. How do you increase sales, and how do you allocate budgets for the same?
    • Your Approach:
      • Analyzed the problem by identifying the key issue (distribution challenges and local competition). Proposed strategies like strengthening distributor relationships, offering incentives, and leveraging brand awareness through targeted marketing campaigns. Also discussed budget allocation for these initiatives.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Tell me something about yourself.
      2. Describe your work experience and related questions (e.g., clients and markets, timeline of work-ex, types of campaigns, most successful campaign, challenges, use of data, platforms worked & tools known).
      3. Search funnel for a product, Market share/search impression share of the client vs competitor.
      4. Any questions for us?
    • Your Approach:
      • Provided a concise introduction highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Detailed my work experience with examples of successful campaigns and challenges faced. For the search funnel question, I explained the concept and how it applies to market share analysis. Asked insightful questions about the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final HR round.

  • Round 3 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Why marketing?
      2. What do you prefer - brand marketing, digital, sales, etc.?
      3. How does sales fit into your goals?
      4. How would you interact with subordinates who are elder to you?
      5. What if a subordinate isn’t delivering results on time?
      6. Still isn’t working despite warnings?
    • Your Approach:
      • Explained my passion for marketing and how it aligns with my career goals. Shared my preference for brand marketing while acknowledging the importance of sales. Discussed leadership and conflict resolution strategies for managing subordinates.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Research the company website and product list thoroughly.
  2. Be well-versed with details regarding your work experience.
  3. Use the internet to gather insights about the industry and role.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was insightful and challenging. The case study round tested my problem-solving skills, while the HR rounds evaluated my fit for the role and company culture. I could have prepared more specific examples for the work experience questions. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and behavioral aspects, and always ask thoughtful questions at the end of the interview.

20

Company Name: Unilever

Position: Intern - Sales and Marketing

Location: Not specified

Application Process:
The application process began with an online submission of my resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas. This was followed by a video interview conducted via HireVue, which lasted 20 minutes and included 4 behavioral questions. The final stage was a selection day/assessment center, which spanned 5 hours and consisted of 2 interviews, 1 case study, and 1 group discussion.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Application:

  • Questions Asked: Submission of resume, cover letter, certificates, and diplomas.

  • Your Approach: I ensured my documents were well-structured and tailored to highlight my relevant skills and experiences for the role.

  • Outcome: Successfully moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Video Interview (HireVue):

  • Questions Asked: 4 behavioral questions (specific questions not provided).

  • Your Approach: I prepared by researching common behavioral questions and practiced my responses to ensure clarity and conciseness. I also ensured a professional setting for the video interview.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the assessment center.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Center:

  • Interview with Brand Manager:

    • Questions Asked: Questions about my understanding of sales and marketing, my motivation for the role, and how I handle challenges.
    • Your Approach: I focused on demonstrating my passion for marketing and provided examples from past experiences to showcase my problem-solving skills.
    • Outcome: Felt confident about my performance.

  • Case Study - Marketing Strategy for Detergent:

    • Task: Develop a marketing strategy for a detergent product.
    • Your Approach: I analyzed the target audience, identified key selling points, and proposed a multi-channel marketing plan.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback on my creativity and strategic thinking.

  • Group Discussion with Assigned Roles:

    • Task: Participate in a group discussion with predefined roles.
    • Your Approach: I actively listened, contributed ideas, and ensured collaboration while staying true to my assigned role.
    • Outcome: The discussion went smoothly, and I felt I contributed effectively.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, especially its products and marketing strategies.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Familiarize yourself with case study frameworks to structure your thoughts during the assessment.
  • Work on teamwork and communication skills for group discussions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was intense but rewarding. I learned the importance of preparation and adaptability. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing case studies and group discussions in advance to build confidence. Also, stay calm and be yourself during the interviews—it makes a difference!