If you're a graduate looking to get into publishing and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate publishing interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Publishing Interview Questions:
1. Why is it so difficult to get a job in the media?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer wants to assess your understanding of the competitive nature of the media industry and your motivation to pursue a career in it. This is a great opportunity to flatter your interviewer by saying how great the industry they work in is. When you describe the media industry you will need to speak with passion.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During my final year at university, I applied for several internships in publishing and media. (Task) I noticed that many roles had a high number of applicants, often with more experience, showing the unballanced nature of the industry from a talent and demand perspective. (Action) I had to enhance my CV by contributing to the student newspaper and attending industry networking events, and applied to more opportunites. (Result) This proactive approach led to successfully achieving an internship, highlighting my commitment to breaking into the industry despite its competitiveness."
2. Tell me how you would get an important source to agree to an interview.
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is evaluating your communication skills, creativity, and persistence in securing valuable content.
Example Answer: "(Situation) For a university magazine feature, I aimed to interview a well-known author. (Task) I needed to persuade them to participate despite their busy schedule. (Action) I researched their recent work, crafted a personalised request highlighting the magazine's relevance to their audience, and offered to share the final piece for their approval. (Result) They agreed to the interview, appreciating the tailored approach and professionalism."
3. What is your favourite form of media?
Interviewer Expectation: This question assesses your engagement with media and how your preferences align with current trends and the role you're applying for. Make sure you justify your choice with reasons which are relevant to the interviewer.
Example Answer: "(Situation) I've always been drawn to podcasts, especially those focusing on storytelling and investigative journalism. (Task) I explored various formats to understand their impact. (Action) I even started a podcast segment for our university radio, discussing recent publications and interviewing local authors. (Result) This experience deepened my appreciation for audio media and its potential in modern publishing."
4. Why do you want to work in publishing?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is assessing your motivation and understanding of the publishing industry. They want to know you are genuinely interested in publishing, not just looking for any graduate job.
Example Answer:(Situation) During university, I was heavily involved in editing our student magazine. (Task) I realised I enjoyed the process of transforming raw content into something engaging and polished. (Action) I explored different areas of publishing, attended career events, and followed industry news. (Result) I’ve grown passionate about the evolving role of publishers in delivering meaningful content, both in print and digital formats."
5. What area of publishing are you most interested in and why?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer wants to see that you've thought carefully about your career direction and understand the various sectors within publishing.
Example Answer:(Situation) I explored academic, trade, and digital publishing during university through research and events. (Task) I wanted to find a niche that aligned with my skills and interests. (Action) I discovered a strong pull toward editorial roles in trade publishing, particularly fiction. (Result) I enjoy shaping stories and believe my attention to detail and creative insight are well-suited to this area."
6. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the publishing industry today?
Interviewer Expectation: This tests your commercial awareness and industry knowledge. The interviewer wants to see if you stay informed and can think critically about real-world issues.
Example Answer:(Situation) I follow industry news through The Bookseller and podcasts. (Task) I aimed to understand key challenges. (Action) One major issue I’ve noticed is balancing digital innovation with traditional print sales, especially with changing reader habits. (Result) I think successful publishers are those who blend strong digital strategies with a passion for great storytelling."
7. Describe a time when you had to proofread or edit content.
Interviewer Expectation: This question focuses on your attention to detail, a key skill in publishing. They want examples of your ability to work accurately and independently.
Example Answer:(Situation) For a group assignment, I took charge of editing our final report. (Task) We needed the work to be clear, concise, and error-free. (Action) I checked grammar, consistency, and layout, and suggested improvements. (Result) We achieved top marks, and my tutor praised the professionalism of the final submission."
8. How would you handle receiving criticism on your work?
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is assessing your openness to feedback, which is vital in editorial roles. They want to see emotional intelligence and professionalism.
Example Answer:(Situation) I once submitted a draft article for our university blog that received constructive criticism. (Task) I needed to revise it to meet editorial standards. (Action) I thanked the editor, reviewed their suggestions, and rewrote the piece without taking it personally. (Result) The final version was published and received positive engagement."
9. What experience do you have with content management systems (CMS)?
Interviewer Expectation: They’re looking for digital literacy and technical understanding. You don’t need advanced skills but should show a willingness to learn.
Example Answer:(Situation) During a summer internship, I was introduced to WordPress to update website content. (Task) I needed to format and upload articles correctly. (Action) I learned quickly, asked questions, and created a guide to help other interns. (Result) My supervisor appreciated my initiative and attention to formatting details."
10. How do you ensure accuracy and quality in your work?
Interviewer Expectation: Accuracy is critical in publishing. The interviewer wants to understand your process and diligence.
Example Answer:(Situation) For a university research project, I handled all the data in the presentation. (Task) Accuracy was essential for credibility. (Action) I double-checked figures, cross-referenced sources, and asked peers to review my work. (Result) My supervisor highlighted the clarity and reliability of my report."