Describe a time when you took initiative and went above and beyond your assigned responsibilities.

Media Outreach Specialist Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

During my previous internship at a PR agency, I took the initiative to go above and beyond my assigned responsibilities by identifying a unique media opportunity for one of our clients. The client had recently launched a new product, and I noticed that there was a popular industry event coming up where they could showcase their product to a target audience of potential customers. I proactively reached out to the event organizers, pitched our client's product as a key highlight of the event, and successfully secured a speaking opportunity for the client's CEO. This led to increased brand visibility, media coverage, and ultimately, a boost in sales for the client. I took the lead in coordinating the logistics of the event, making sure all necessary materials were prepared, and even took the initiative to create a social media campaign to generate buzz around the event.

A more solid answer

During my previous internship at a PR agency, I consistently sought opportunities to go above and beyond my assigned responsibilities. One particular instance was when our team was tasked with organizing a press conference for a high-profile client. I took the initiative to research and compile a comprehensive list of media contacts, including journalists, influencers, and industry bloggers, who would be interested in covering our client's brand and products. I personally reached out to each contact, individually tailored our pitch, and secured a significant amount of press attendance. Additionally, I proactively took charge of coordinating logistics for the event, ensuring all necessary equipment, materials, and refreshments were prepared. The press conference was a huge success, garnering extensive media coverage and generating a substantial increase in brand awareness for our client. This initiative not only showcased my proactive problem-solving skills and attention to detail but also highlighted my ability to work effectively as part of a team by supporting and enhancing overall campaign efforts.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details and examples to support the candidate's claims. It demonstrates a consistent pattern of taking initiative and going above and beyond assigned responsibilities. The answer showcases proactive problem-solving skills, networking and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, ability to work as part of a team, creativity, and written and verbal communication skills. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of showcasing creativity and providing more specific examples.

An exceptional answer

During my previous internship at a PR agency, I consistently demonstrated a proactive mindset and went above and beyond my assigned responsibilities in multiple instances. One notable example was when our team was planning a media event to launch a new product for a client. While brainstorming ideas, I noticed an untapped opportunity to tie the product with a trending social cause related to sustainability and environmental conservation. I took ownership of creating a comprehensive campaign that not only showcased the product but also raised awareness and funds for the cause. I collaborated with a local non-profit organization, reached out to relevant media outlets and influencers, and organized a charity event alongside the product launch. The event received extensive media coverage and social media engagement, generating significant brand visibility for our client and making a positive impact on the community. This initiative showcased my creativity, ability to think outside the box, and my commitment to creating meaningful connections between brands and their target audience.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a specific example that highlights the candidate's creativity and ability to think outside the box. The candidate identifies an untapped opportunity and takes ownership of creating a comprehensive campaign that not only promotes the product but also contributes to a social cause. The answer further demonstrates networking and interpersonal skills, initiative, proactive problem-solving, attention to detail, ability to work as part of a team, and written and verbal communication skills. The candidate's commitment to creating meaningful connections between brands and their target audience is particularly impressive.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you took initiative beyond your assigned responsibilities and achieved positive outcomes. Think about instances where you identified untapped opportunities or found creative ways to solve problems.
Consider the specific skills mentioned in the job description, such as writing and editing skills, networking and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and creativity. Think of examples that highlight these skills in action.
Practice articulating your experiences and achievements in a concise yet engaging manner. Be prepared to provide specific details and results to demonstrate the impact of your actions.
Research current trends and developments in the media landscape and digital media to showcase your knowledge and adaptability to evolving industry demands.
Think about how your past experiences align with the responsibilities of a Media Outreach Specialist. Identify transferable skills and experiences that would make you a valuable addition to the team.

What interviewers are evaluating

Initiative
Proactive problem-solving
Networking and interpersonal skills
Attention to detail
Ability to work as part of a team
Creativity
Written and verbal communication skills