How do you approach story planning and pitch meetings? What strategies do you use to contribute creative ideas?

Sample answer to the question

In story planning and pitch meetings, I approach them with thorough research and preparation. I analyze the publication's style and tone to ensure my ideas align with their vision. During meetings, I actively listen to others' ideas and contribute my own based on my strong understanding of narrative structure and storytelling techniques. I provide constructive feedback and suggestions to enhance the stories. I also collaborate with other editors and teams to ensure smooth production processes. My strategies to contribute creative ideas include brainstorming sessions, mind mapping, and utilizing visual aids to visually convey my ideas.

A more solid answer

When it comes to story planning and pitch meetings, I take a comprehensive approach to ensure successful outcomes. Before the meetings, I thoroughly research the publication's style, tone, and target audience to align my ideas accordingly. During the meetings, I actively listen to others and contribute my own creative ideas based on my extensive understanding of narrative structure and storytelling techniques. I provide constructive feedback and suggestions to improve the stories. Additionally, I collaborate effectively with other editors and departments to ensure smooth production processes. My strategies to contribute creative ideas include conducting brainstorming sessions, utilizing mind mapping techniques, and creating visual aids to enhance the presentation of my ideas.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details and qualifications that align with the job description. It demonstrates the candidate's exceptional writing and editing skills by mentioning their thorough research and understanding of the publication's style and tone. The candidate also showcases their excellent leadership and team management abilities by mentioning their collaboration with other editors and departments. Additionally, the candidate's strong analytical and critical thinking skills are evident in their approach to providing constructive feedback and contributing creative ideas. The answer could be improved by including more examples or specific experiences that showcase the candidate's exceptional skills.

An exceptional answer

In story planning and pitch meetings, I apply a strategic and collaborative approach. Before the meetings, I conduct extensive research on the publication's style, tone, and target audience to ensure my ideas align with their vision. During the meetings, I actively listen to others' input, fostering an inclusive and creative environment. I contribute my own ideas by leveraging my deep understanding of narrative structure and storytelling techniques, as well as my exceptional writing and editing skills. To enhance my ideas, I utilize mind mapping techniques and visual aids to visually convey concepts. I also provide constructive feedback and suggestions, drawing from my experience in editing and shaping compelling stories. Overall, my approach to story planning and pitch meetings combines exceptional creativity, strategic thinking, and effective collaboration.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing more specific details and showcasing the candidate's exceptional skills and qualifications. The candidate demonstrates their exceptional writing and editing skills by mentioning their extensive research on the publication's style, tone, and target audience. Additionally, the candidate shows their excellent leadership and team management abilities by describing their active listening and fostering an inclusive and creative environment during the meetings. The candidate's exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills are evident in their mind mapping techniques and utilization of visual aids to enhance the presentation of their ideas. The answer also highlights the candidate's experience in editing and shaping compelling stories, showcasing their expertise in providing constructive feedback and suggestions. Overall, the answer provides a comprehensive understanding of the candidate's approach to story planning and pitch meetings.

How to prepare for this question

1. Familiarize yourself with the publication's style, tone, and target audience to align your ideas accordingly.
2. Develop a deep understanding of narrative structure and storytelling techniques.
3. Practice active listening to foster an inclusive and creative environment during meetings.
4. Utilize brainstorming sessions, mind mapping techniques, and visual aids to enhance your creative contributions.
5. Build experience in editing and shaping compelling stories to provide constructive feedback and suggestions.
6. Collaborate effectively with other team members and departments to ensure smooth production processes.

What interviewers are evaluating

Exceptional writing and editing skills
Excellent leadership and team management abilities
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
Outstanding organizational and multitasking skills
Adaptability and flexibility to work with evolving editorial needs and industry trends