Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a last-minute change in a client's makeup request. How did you adapt?

Sample answer to the question

One time, I had a client who wanted a natural, subtle makeup look for her formal event. We had discussed the details of the look and I had already selected the products. However, on the day of the event, the client suddenly changed her mind and wanted a bold and dramatic look instead. I remained calm and quickly assessed the situation. I asked the client about her specific preferences and looked for inspiration pictures to get a clear understanding of the new desired look. I had to make some adjustments to the products and colors I was originally going to use. Fortunately, I had a diverse makeup kit that allowed me to adapt to the last-minute change. I confidently executed the bold look, ensuring that the client was satisfied with the result. The client's positive feedback on the final look validated my ability to adapt to unexpected changes.

A more solid answer

One memorable instance comes to mind when I had a client who initially requested a soft and romantic makeup look for her wedding. However, just a few days before the big day, she had a change of heart and wanted a bold and glamorous look instead. I understood the importance of effective communication in such situations, so I scheduled a consultation with her immediately. During the consultation, I actively listened to her new preferences and asked detailed questions to ensure I fully understood her vision. I also showed her various makeup looks that aligned with her desired style and provided guidance on which products and techniques would achieve the desired effect. This open and collaborative approach helped build trust and put the client at ease. Despite the short notice, I managed to source the necessary products and tailored my techniques to create the bold look she desired. I also made sure to allocate ample time on the wedding day for the makeup application, allowing for any adjustments or touch-ups. The client was thrilled with the final result, and her radiant smile as she walked down the aisle was a testament to my ability to adapt and deliver in challenging circumstances.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's interpersonal and communication skills, patience and attention to detail, and time management and organizational abilities. It demonstrates effective communication by actively listening to the client's preferences and providing guidance. It showcases patience and attention to detail by carefully sourcing the necessary products and tailoring techniques to create the desired bold look. It also addresses time management and organizational abilities by allocating ample time on the wedding day for adjustments and touch-ups. However, it can still be improved by including more specific examples or actions taken to further highlight these skills.

An exceptional answer

I had a client who initially requested a natural and dewy makeup look for her engagement photoshoot. We had discussed the specific products and techniques to achieve this soft and fresh look. However, just minutes before the photoshoot, she received some unexpected news that elevated her mood, and she wanted her makeup to reflect her newfound excitement. I immediately assessed the situation and reaffirmed my commitment to providing exceptional service. I calmly communicated with the client, expressing my understanding of her desire for a more vibrant look. Through active listening, I grasped her vision and suggested modifications to the makeup look while leveraging my knowledge of color theory and lighting. I swiftly adapted by introducing bolder shades and highlighting techniques to enhance her features and elevate the overall look. Despite the time pressure, I maintained my composure and executed the modified makeup flawlessly, ensuring her satisfaction. The client was thrilled with the result and expressed gratitude for my attentiveness to her changing emotions and the seamless adaptation of her makeup to reflect her joyful mood.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides even more specific details and examples of the candidate's interpersonal and communication skills, patience and attention to detail, and time management and organizational abilities. It highlights the candidate's ability to adapt to unexpected changes not only in the client's makeup request but also in the client's emotional state. It showcases the candidate's expertise in color theory and lighting by suggesting modifications to the makeup look that would reflect the client's newfound excitement. The candidate's ability to maintain composure under time pressure and flawlessly execute the modified makeup further demonstrates their time management and organizational abilities. Overall, the exceptional answer goes above and beyond in showcasing the candidate's skills and abilities relevant to the job description.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with different makeup styles and techniques to be prepared for diverse client preferences.
Develop strong communication skills to effectively understand and interpret client's changing requests.
Practice active listening to ensure clear comprehension of client's desired makeup look.
Master time management and organizational skills to handle last-minute changes efficiently.
Stay updated with the latest trends and products in the makeup industry to offer a wide range of options to clients.

What interviewers are evaluating

Interpersonal and communication skills
Patience and attention to detail
Time management and organizational abilities