Are you preparing for a content writing interview? Are you wondering what are some of the questions to expect during a content writing interview?
I recently applied for a freelance content writing gig and the client sent me a set of questions to answer. Here are 10 interview questions and my answers that I was asked to explain.
1. What do you do to research the target audience?
As a writer Google analytics is my go to! There is great information in there that helps me to discover more about the audience demographics, interests and geography. Additionally, I check social media insights, paying attention to comments and messages from users. I also check what the competitors, or organizations that inspire me are doing.
2. What do you think are the essential components of good web content?
I think good web content should provide value to the readers. Having concise, clear, original and accurate web content is paramount as all work together as a package to remain relevant over time.
3. How will you go about creating a content strategy for a client/brand?
Over the years I have been able to develop successful content marketing strategies following 10 simple steps. I normally would:
· Define the goals and KPIs
· Run a content audit on the website, social media, email marketing etc.
· Identify an exceptional value proposition
· Take a persona research
· Select a content management system that best works for the client
· Come up with a content calendar
· Conduct a SEO analysis
· Write compelling content
· Distribute content
· Track and measure performance and results
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4. How do you decide what topic/subject to write on?
To decide what topic to write, I normally identify keywords currently trending and have great interests in the market. Additionally, I identify my target audience and what they are searching for while also analyzing social media conversations and trends.
5. How do you decide the tone of the content?
A consistent tone in your content synthesizes your messaging. I usually consider the channel. A blog and white paper styles will have different tones but keep the attributes of the brand. At the same time I determine the tone that best resonates with the target audience and positions the brand as an authority in the industry.
6. How do you manage feedback and criticism?
I believe constructive criticism and feedback is key to achieving a successful writing career because it makes you grow and learn. No human is perfect; therefore, I do not expect to be right all the time. I take time to listen and respectfully clarify any misunderstanding and share my viewpoint.
7. What would you say are your strengths as a content writer?
My strength as a content writer is creativity. As an avid reader I like to apply the level of substance that I often read. I am also very comfortable to adapt to new ideas, tones and create different many formats.
8. And what is the difference between content and copy?
Content can be in form of text, video, multimedia, audio, and images. It includes many formats like blogs, white paper, eBooks, guides, email marketing and newsletters. Content reinforces a correlation between readers and the organization. On the other hand, copy provides you with reliable information as a reader to make a solid decision. It includes benefits and value and can be in a sales page, Ad, brochure or even a sales page.
9. What is your proofreading process?
Other than my auto correct tool, I have a personalized process where I start by reading aloud my article while fact checking and double-checking names and places. I use Hemingway to crosscheck language composition one line at a time. I then check on formatting and homonym. I proofread once more with great caution while crosschecking on hard copy. I sit on it for a few minutes then read my copy aloud for the last time.
10. How do you keep yourself motivated in the midst of cumbersome and repetitive work?
As a writer, once in a while you are bound to hit a writer’s burnout. However, I am very adventurous and like to try out different challenging topics when that happens. Nevertheless, a new challenge helps me to overcome cumbersome and repetitive work.