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SENIOR LEVEL

Describe a situation where you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement with an editor or publisher. How did you handle it?

Novelist Interview Questions
Describe a situation where you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement with an editor or publisher. How did you handle it?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a novelist, I had a situation where I had a disagreement with an editor about the direction of one of my manuscripts. The editor wanted to make significant changes to the plot and characters, but I believed it would compromise the integrity of the story. I handled the conflict by scheduling a meeting with the editor to discuss our differences. During the meeting, I listened attentively to their perspective and explained mine, providing examples and reasoning for why I believed the original version was stronger. We had an open and respectful dialogue, and eventually, we were able to find a compromise that satisfied both of us. We ended up making some minor adjustments to the manuscript without compromising the core elements of the story. The final version was well-received by readers and garnered positive reviews.

A more solid answer

As a seasoned novelist, I encountered a conflict with an editor who proposed extensive changes to my manuscript. While they believed it would enhance the story, I firmly believed it would dilute the essence of my work. To handle the disagreement, I requested a face-to-face meeting to foster open communication. During the meeting, I actively listened to the editor's perspective, acknowledging their ideas and concerns. I then presented my counterarguments, substantiated with concrete examples from the text. To find common ground, I proposed a compromise that retained the core elements of the story while incorporating a few adjustments. This collaborative approach allowed us to respect each other's expertise and reach a resolution that satisfied both parties. Ultimately, the final version of the manuscript received positive feedback from readers and maintained the artistic integrity I had envisioned.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the conflict resolution process, including the candidate's active listening, ability to present counterarguments, and the proposal of a compromise. The answer also highlights the positive outcome of the conflict resolution.

An exceptional answer

As a seasoned novelist with a keen eye for storytelling, I encountered a conflict with an editor who proposed sweeping changes to my manuscript. Their vision diverged significantly from my artistic direction, and I knew I had to navigate the situation tactfully. Instead of immediately dismissing the editor's ideas, I requested a meeting to delve deeper into their perspective and understand their reasoning. During our discussion, I attentively listened to their insights, acknowledging their expertise and demonstrating genuine respect for their input. As I presented my counterarguments, I made sure to back them up with concrete examples from the text that showcased the thematic significance and character development the editor's proposed changes would compromise. However, I also recognized the value of compromise in collaboration. I proposed a middle ground that preserved the essence of my story while incorporating some adjustments suggested by the editor. By approaching the disagreement with empathy, open-mindedness, and a willingness to find common ground, we were able to reach a resolution that pleased both parties. The final version of the manuscript received rave reviews from readers and solidified my professional relationship with the editor, fostering a stronger collaboration moving forward.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides a more elaborate description of the candidate's conflict resolution approach, emphasizing their empathy, open-mindedness, and willingness to find common ground. The answer also highlights the candidate's ability to justify their counterarguments with thematic and character-related examples, as well as the positive impact of the conflict resolution on their professional relationship with the editor.

How to prepare for this question

  • Reflect on past experiences where you faced conflicts or disagreements with colleagues or superiors.
  • Consider how your conflict resolution skills align with the job requirements for the novelist position.
  • Practice active listening and effective communication techniques to foster productive discussions.
  • Develop the ability to present well-reasoned counterarguments supported by examples.
  • Study the book publishing industry and its standards to understand editors' perspectives.
  • Familiarize yourself with successful approaches to compromise and finding common ground in creative collaborations.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Collaboration
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving

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