I applied online and was then called up for an in person interview, no initial phone screen which was a bit weird. I showed up at their Glendale location and met with the Director of Operations for roughly 30 minutes. He really like my enthusiasm for brand marketing and said he'd give me a chance at proving my brand management skills by assigning me what he called homework and I had 2.5 days to complete the following: 1. Write one story that could be posted on an underwear or fashion or gay blog...doesn't necessarily have to be about Andrew Christian just any interesting and engaging subject. 2. Come up with 5 posts for the Andrew Christian Facebook that would get shared and liked the most. 3. Create concepts for two, 3 minute "viral" videos. Include an outline of concept and a shot list for both videos. I never heard back from the Director of Operations after my submission. However, after about a month, I saw on their Facebook page that 3 of my 5 social media marketing ideas were being used. I promptly emailed the Director of Operations and also HR commenting on these ideas and if they were already in the pipeline prior to my interview. Again, no response. It's disgusting that companies use tactics such as this to manage their own brand instead of hiring an a full time individual responsible for marketing and brand management. My advice is that if you're dead set on working for this company, include a copyright clause on any "homework" they want you to submit as part of the supposed interview process. Or really, just stay away from companies like this in general who like to exploit the skill/creativity of others for their own use.

I met with the Director of Operations, Robert, for about 30 minutes discussing why I would want to work for the company and what I thought they stood for. He wanted my opinion on what the company was doing right and what they needed to improve on from a marketing and brand management point of view. Overall, the interview went well and I proceeded to the next round where Robert requested that I showcase my creativity. I had 48 hours to come up with ideas on creating social media buzz within Facebook, a blog and viral videos. After, I submitted my interview assignment, I never heard back from Robert or the company again.