Tell us about a time when you had to adapt your writing style to suit different platforms and audiences.

Sample answer to the question

I once had the opportunity to write for an online travel magazine that targeted different audiences and platforms. One of the platforms was a luxury travel website that catered to affluent travelers. To adapt my writing style, I focused on using elegant and sophisticated language to appeal to their interests. Another platform was a budget travel blog that targeted young backpackers. For this audience, I used more casual and relatable language to connect with them. I also adjusted the tone and content to match the platforms' requirements. This experience taught me the importance of understanding the target audience and tailoring the writing style accordingly.

A more solid answer

I had an amazing opportunity to work as a freelance content writer for a travel company that had multiple digital platforms. One platform was a travel blog aimed at adventure travelers and backpackers, while another was a social media page targeting luxury travelers. To adapt my writing style, I conducted thorough research on each audience and platform. For the adventure travel blog, I used a more casual and conversational tone, incorporating personal experiences and vivid storytelling to connect with the readers. On the luxury travel social media page, I focused on using elegant and descriptive language, highlighting the luxurious aspects of each destination. I also adjusted the length and formatting of my writing based on the platform's requirements. This experience allowed me to develop a versatile writing style and hone my skills in tailoring content for different audiences and platforms.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer addresses the question by providing a detailed example of adapting writing style for different platforms and audiences. It demonstrates the candidate's strong writing skills, research abilities, and adaptability. The answer also highlights the impact of the candidate's adaptation on engaging with the target audiences. However, it can still be improved by providing specific examples of the candidate's work and the outcomes of their writing on the platforms.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a travel blogger, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and platforms, each requiring a unique writing style and approach. One project involved writing for a travel website that targeted family travelers. To suit this audience, I crafted informative and engaging articles, focusing on family-friendly activities and accommodations. Another project involved writing for a digital magazine aimed at adventure enthusiasts. For this platform, I adopted a more adventurous and adrenaline-fueled writing style, sharing thrilling personal experiences and recommending off-the-beaten-path destinations. Additionally, I collaborated with a fashion brand to create travel-related fashion guides. For this project, I incorporated fashion-forward language and highlighted trendy travel outfits. These experiences allowed me to showcase my versatility in adapting writing styles for different platforms and audiences, ultimately increasing engagement and readership.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides comprehensive examples of the candidate's experience in adapting writing style for different platforms and audiences. It showcases their versatility by mentioning various projects they worked on and the specific writing styles they adopted. The answer also highlights the impact of the candidate's writing on increasing engagement and readership. The candidate demonstrates their strong writing skills, ability to research and understand target audiences, and their creativity in tailoring content. However, to further improve the answer, the candidate can provide specific metrics or success stories to quantify the impact of their writing on the platforms.

How to prepare for this question

Research the company and their target audience to understand their writing style and preferences.
Practice adapting your writing style by creating content samples for different platforms and audiences.
Stay updated with the latest trends in travel writing, digital marketing, and SEO practices.
Develop a portfolio showcasing your ability to adapt writing style for different platforms and audiences.
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how your writing style has impacted engagement and readership on different platforms.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong writing and editing skills
Research and fact-checking
Ability to capture high-quality photos and videos
Social media proficiency
SEO and digital marketing
Time management and organization