Burson-Marsteller Manager Interview Questions
& Process

HR from BM's DC office reached out on LinkedIn in May 2017 about a senior associate role, but they thought I'd be a better fit for a manager's position and wanted to move fast, aiming to fill it by July end. The process was pretty standard: a call with HR, an in-person meeting with my potential manager (a director), interviews with three other directors/VPs, and a writing test where I drafted a sample ad plan and memo. HR was really helpful and transparent throughout, even sharing positive feedback and details like salary and computer type. By mid-July, HR let me know I was their top pick and had the job pending final approvals. However, by late July, HR informed me that while I was still the chosen candidate, they needed to wait for sign-off from BM's NY office and WPP in London, estimating it would take two weeks. My potential manager took me out for drinks to reassure me about their interest and the upcoming offer. After two weeks, I followed up with HR and was told the process would likely take two more months due to logistical issues, and they'd update me when they knew more. Since I wasn't actively job hunting and BM seemed great, I reached out after two months with no response, and even a follow-up went unanswered. I felt strung along, especially with the assurances and feedback, and I suspect they might have been fishing for ideas given the nascent stage of the operation I was interviewing to lead.

This was the longest interview process I have ever been through. It took at least 45 days from start to finish. I met and talked with about 7 different people. This is a group of very smart people, who all work extremely hard. The only advice I can offer is to express that you are a hard worker and a team player. This is very important. Also, be honest about your likes and dislikes. I don't think it will cost you the interview, and you have a better chance of working on things that interest you.

The recruiting manager from San Francisco reached out to me. He was really nice, professional, and upfront. The interview was a mix, starting easy and getting harder. Then, I talked to the PR manager who was professional and asked direct questions. My last interview was with a Managing Director who seemed a bit unclear on what she wanted to ask. Overall, it was a good experience, and I was bummed not to get the job because it was a good opportunity.