Tell us about a time when you had to make significant changes to a story or plot based on feedback from editors or publishers.

Sample answer to the question

During my time writing my first novel, I received feedback from my editor that the plot needed some significant changes. The story originally revolved around a detective trying to solve a murder, but my editor suggested adding a twist that would make it more engaging. I decided to introduce a secondary protagonist who turned out to be the real killer. This required rewriting several chapters and reworking the plot to fit the new twist. Although it was challenging, I embraced the feedback and made the necessary changes. The final version of the novel was much stronger and received positive reviews.

A more solid answer

I had the opportunity to work with an editor on my debut novel, and they provided me with valuable feedback that required me to make significant changes to the story. Initially, the plot focused on a detective trying to solve a murder. However, the editor felt that it lacked a compelling twist to keep readers engaged. They suggested introducing a secondary protagonist who turned out to be the real killer. This required a major overhaul of several chapters and a careful reworking of the plot to ensure that the new twist seamlessly integrated with the existing narrative. I embraced the challenge and spent weeks refining the story, rewriting scenes, and enhancing character motivations. The end result was a much stronger and more captivating novel that garnered positive feedback from readers.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer builds upon the basic answer by providing more details about the changes made to the story and the candidate's process of revising it. It demonstrates the candidate's strong written and verbal communication skills, exceptional storytelling ability, and openness to constructive criticism. However, it could further emphasize the candidate's self-discipline and time management skills in meeting the deadlines.

An exceptional answer

Working closely with my editor on my debut novel, I received invaluable feedback that required substantial changes to the story and plot. Initially, the novel revolved around a detective attempting to solve a murder. However, the editor felt that the narrative needed a captivating twist to truly engage readers. They recommended introducing a secondary protagonist who, shockingly, turned out to be the real killer. This meant reimagining key scenes, rewriting multiple chapters, and redefining the motivations and actions of the characters. I embarked on this revision journey with utmost dedication, spending long nights meticulously reviewing the manuscript, fine-tuning plot developments, and crafting authentic character arcs. Moreover, I collaborated with beta readers to ensure the revised version resonated with the target audience. The result was a novel that not only garnered positive reviews but also established my reputation as a storyteller who can skillfully adapt to feedback and enhance the quality of their work.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer takes the solid answer and expands on it by providing even more specific details about the changes made to the story and the candidate's collaboration with beta readers. It showcases the candidate's exceptional storytelling and character development abilities, as well as their self-discipline and time management skills. It also highlights the candidate's willingness to go above and beyond to ensure the revised version of the novel resonated with the target audience.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the publishing industry and the process of working with editors and publishers. Understand the importance of feedback and revisions in creating a well-crafted novel.
Reflect on your past writing experiences and identify a specific instance where you had to make significant changes to a story based on feedback. Prepare to discuss the challenges you faced and the steps you took to address them.
Highlight your ability to embrace feedback and constructively revise your work. Talk about the outcome of the changes you made and how they improved the story or plot.
Discuss any collaboration you had with beta readers or other professionals in the writing industry to refine your work and make it more appealing to the target audience.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong written and verbal communication skills
Exceptional storytelling and character development abilities
Open to constructive criticism and willing to revise work