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JUNIOR LEVEL

Tell us about a time when you had to adapt quickly to style guides and editorial policies.

Editor Interview Questions
Tell us about a time when you had to adapt quickly to style guides and editorial policies.

Sample answer to the question

During my time as an intern at a local magazine, I had to quickly adapt to their style guide and editorial policies. One specific instance stands out: I was assigned to proofread an article that had to be published the next day. As I started reading, I realized that the writer had used informal language and included unnecessary jargon. I quickly referred to the style guide to ensure consistency and made necessary edits to enhance readability and adherence to the publication's guidelines. I also consulted with the senior editor to seek clarification on certain editorial policies. By adapting quickly to the style guide and editorial policies, I was able to deliver a polished article that met the magazine's quality standards and publication deadline.

A more solid answer

As an intern at a local magazine, I frequently encountered situations where I had to adapt quickly to style guides and editorial policies. One notable instance was when I was assigned to edit an article on a tight deadline. After carefully reviewing the content, I noticed that the writer had used passive voice extensively, which went against the magazine's preference for active voice. Adhering to the style guide, I made proactive changes throughout the article, improving its readability and flow. Additionally, I ensured consistent formatting by aligning headings, subheadings, and bullet points with the magazine's established guidelines. By swiftly adapting to the style guide and editorial policies, I was able to deliver a polished article that met the magazine's standards and publication deadline.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details and examples to demonstrate the candidate's adaptive skills and attention to detail. It shows how the candidate addressed specific stylistic concerns and formatting guidelines. However, it can still be improved by including more information about the impact of the candidate's actions and any positive feedback received.

An exceptional answer

During my internship at a local magazine, I was faced with a situation that required immediate adaptation to style guides and editorial policies. The magazine's editorial team received an urgent, high-profile assignment that needed to be completed within 24 hours. I was tasked with editing and aligning the content with the magazine's style guide and editorial policies. As I began working on the piece, I realized that the writer had used technical jargon and industry-specific terms that might confuse the target audience. To address this, I extensively researched the topic to gain a deeper understanding and simplify complex concepts. Simultaneously, I revamped the structure of the article to improve its flow and readability. I also collaborated with the senior editor to confirm the editorial guidelines and ensure consistency throughout the manuscript. By adapting quickly to the style guide and editorial policies, I successfully transformed the article into a polished piece that resonated with the magazine's readership and met the publication deadline.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a compelling story that showcases the candidate's ability to adapt quickly to style guides and editorial policies. The candidate demonstrates strong research skills, collaboration with senior editor, and attention to audience preferences. The answer also highlights the positive impact of the candidate's actions on the quality of the article and meeting the publication deadline.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with commonly used style guides such as AP Stylebook or The Chicago Manual of Style.
  • Practice editing and proofreading various types of content, such as articles, blog posts, and reports, while adhering to specific style guides.
  • Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in the publishing industry, including new style guide updates.
  • Develop strong research skills to verify facts and statistics included in the content.
  • Seek opportunities to collaborate with senior editors or experienced professionals to gain insights into effective editorial strategies and policies.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Adaptive skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Knowledge of style guides and editorial policies

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