25 Editor In Chief Interview Questions and Answers

Editors in chief are responsible for the overall content of a publication. They work with writers, reporters, and other editors to make sure the publication meets its goals. They also work with the advertising and marketing teams to make sure the publication is profitable.

An editor in chief typically has a college degree in journalism, English, or a related field. They also have several years of experience working as a journalist, reporter, or editor.

If you’re applying for an editor in chief job, you’ll likely be asked questions about your experience, your ideas for the publication, and your vision for it. You’ll also need to be able to articulate your thoughts on topics such as the First Amendment and the role of the press in society.

To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of common editor in chief interview questions and answers.

1. Are you familiar with the style guide for our publication?

The style guide is a set of rules that editors use to ensure consistency in their publications. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are familiar with the publication’s current style guide and how you would apply it to your work. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to become familiar with the style guide and any other policies or procedures for the publication.

Example: “Yes, I am familiar with the style guide for your publication. In my current role as Editor in Chief, I have been responsible for ensuring that all content follows the established style guidelines. I understand the importance of adhering to a consistent style and voice throughout the publication.

I also have experience creating new style guides when needed. During my tenure at my previous job, I was tasked with developing a new style guide from scratch. This involved researching industry standards, understanding the target audience, and determining which elements were necessary for the publication. After completing this project, I had an extensive knowledge of how to create effective style guides.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for an editor in chief to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills and abilities to succeed in this role. Use your answer to highlight some of your most important qualities as an editor, such as communication skills, time management skills and attention to detail.

Example: “As an Editor in Chief, I believe the most important qualities to have are strong leadership skills, excellent communication and organizational abilities, and a keen eye for detail.

Leadership is essential because it sets the tone for the rest of the editorial team. A successful editor in chief must be able to motivate their staff and ensure that everyone is working together towards common goals. They should also be able to delegate tasks effectively and provide guidance when needed.

Excellent communication and organizational abilities are key as well. An editor in chief needs to be able to communicate clearly with all stakeholders, both internally and externally. They should also be able to manage multiple projects at once and prioritize tasks accordingly. Finally, they need to be organized in order to keep track of deadlines and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Lastly, a keen eye for detail is critical. An editor in chief should be able to spot errors quickly and make sure that all content meets the highest standards before being published. They should also be able to recognize potential issues and address them promptly.”

3. How do you handle working with writers who may have different ideas about the direction of a story?

As an editor in chief, you may have to work with writers who have different opinions about the direction of a story. An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you handle working with others and make decisions as part of your job. Use your answer to show that you can collaborate with others and help them develop their ideas into stories.

Example: “I believe that the best stories come from collaboration and open dialogue between writers and editors. When I’m working with a writer who has different ideas about the direction of a story, my first step is to listen carefully to their perspective and understand where they’re coming from. Then, I’ll provide feedback on how we can work together to create something that meets both our expectations.

In my experience, it’s important to be flexible and willing to compromise in order to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. I also strive to maintain an environment of respect and trust so that everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions without fear of judgement or criticism. Finally, I make sure to keep lines of communication open throughout the entire process so that any issues can be addressed quickly and efficiently.”

4. What is your process for deciding which stories to publish and which to reject?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you make editorial decisions. Your answer should include a specific example of a time when you rejected or published a story and the reasoning behind your decision.

Example: “When deciding which stories to publish and which to reject, I take a holistic approach. First, I consider the story’s relevance to our readership. Is this something that will be interesting to them? Does it fit within our publication’s mission? If so, then I move on to evaluating the quality of the writing itself. Are there any grammatical or factual errors? How well does the author convey their message? Finally, I assess how the story fits into our overall content strategy. Will it help us reach our goals for audience engagement and growth?”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to make a difficult decision as an editor in chief.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you make decisions. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you had to make a decision that was challenging but also helped the publication or organization achieve its goals.

Example: “As an editor in chief, I have had to make difficult decisions on a regular basis. One of the most challenging decisions I ever made was when I had to decide whether or not to publish a controversial article. The article contained strong opinions that could potentially cause backlash from readers and advertisers alike. After much deliberation, I decided to go ahead with publishing the article as it was important for our readers to be exposed to different points of view.

I knew this decision would come with risks, so I took extra care to ensure that the article was well-researched and factually accurate. I also worked closely with my team to create a strategy to manage any potential negative responses. In the end, the article was published without any major issues and we were able to maintain good relationships with both our readers and advertisers. This experience taught me the importance of making informed decisions and being prepared for any potential consequences.”

6. If we were to walk into your office right now, what would we see?

This question is a way for the interviewer to get an idea of your work style and personality. It’s important to show that you have a clean, organized workspace so they can see how you would keep their office in order. You should also include any personal touches or items that reflect your interests or values.

Example: “If you were to walk into my office right now, you would see a workspace that is organized and efficient. My desk is neat and tidy with all of the necessary tools for me to do my job effectively. I have several monitors set up so that I can easily access any documents or information needed. There are also shelves filled with books related to my field, which I use as reference materials when editing content. Finally, there is a whiteboard on one wall where I keep track of projects and deadlines.”

7. What would you do if you received a story from a writer and noticed a significant error that could be easily fixed?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle mistakes and errors in your work. Use examples from past experiences to explain what you do when you notice a mistake or error, and how you fix it.

Example: “If I received a story from a writer and noticed a significant error that could be easily fixed, my first step would be to communicate with the writer. I believe in providing constructive feedback to writers so they can learn and grow as professionals. Depending on the severity of the mistake, I would either suggest changes or ask them to revise the piece entirely.

I also understand the importance of deadlines, so if time is an issue, I’d take it upon myself to make the necessary corrections. I have extensive experience editing stories for accuracy, clarity, and consistency, so I am confident in my ability to quickly identify errors and fix them. Finally, I would ensure that all edits are tracked properly so that the writer knows exactly what was changed and why.”

8. How well do you know our target audience and what they want to read?

As an editor in chief, you need to know your target audience and what they want to read. This question is a way for the interviewer to see if you have researched their publication and understand who it’s written for. Use examples from your research or past experience to show that you know your audience well.

Example: “I understand the importance of knowing your target audience and what they want to read. I have extensive experience in researching and understanding different audiences, so I am confident that I can quickly learn about your target audience and create content that resonates with them.

In my current role as Editor In Chief, I have worked closely with our marketing team to gain insights into our readers’ interests and preferences. This has enabled me to craft content that is tailored to their needs and interests. I also stay up-to-date on industry trends and use this knowledge to develop stories that are both timely and relevant.”

9. Do you have any experience working with digital content?

As technology continues to advance, many companies are moving toward digital content. An editor in chief needs to be able to create and edit content for both print and online publications. Your interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with digital content management systems (CMS) like WordPress or Drupal. If you do, share your experience. If not, explain that you’re willing to learn how to use these CMS platforms.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with digital content. In my current role as Editor in Chief, I am responsible for overseeing the development of all digital content for our publication. This includes creating and managing a team of writers to produce engaging stories that are optimized for search engine visibility. I also ensure that all content is compliant with industry standards and regulations.

I’m well-versed in SEO best practices and use analytics tools to track performance and measure success. My background in journalism has enabled me to develop an eye for detail when it comes to crafting compelling headlines and copy that resonates with readers. Furthermore, I have experience using various content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress and Drupal to manage and publish content online.”

10. When working with advertisers, what is your process for ensuring that their content aligns with the mission of the publication?

An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you handle conflicts between advertisers and the publication’s editorial content. Your answer should show that you can maintain your publication’s integrity while still maintaining positive relationships with advertisers.

Example: “When working with advertisers, my process for ensuring that their content aligns with the mission of the publication is two-fold. First and foremost, I always make sure to read through any proposed advertisement or sponsored content before it goes live. This allows me to assess whether the message being conveyed is in line with our company’s values and goals.

Secondly, I ensure that all communication between myself and the advertiser is clear and concise. I strive to keep a positive relationship with our partners while also making sure they understand what we expect from them. If there are any discrepancies between the content they want to publish and our mission statement, I am quick to address these issues and work together to find a solution that works for both parties.”

11. We want to increase our social media presence. What would you do to increase our follower count and engagement on our social media channels?

Social media is an important part of many businesses, and the editor in chief needs to be able to increase their social media presence. This question allows you to show your knowledge about how to use social media effectively and efficiently.

Example: “I understand the importance of having a strong social media presence and I have experience in increasing follower count and engagement on various platforms. To increase our follower count, I would start by creating content that is relevant to our target audience. This could include posts about industry news, tips for using our products or services, and engaging visuals such as videos and infographics.

I would also focus on optimizing our profiles for search engine optimization (SEO) so that we can be more easily found when people are searching for topics related to our business. Additionally, I would research influencers in our industry and collaborate with them to create content that will reach their followers. Finally, I would use paid advertising campaigns to reach new audiences and grow our following.”

12. Describe your process for managing your time when you have multiple tasks due on the same day.

Time management is an important skill for any editor in chief. The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively. In your answer, describe a specific strategy you use to stay organized and meet deadlines.

Example: “When I have multiple tasks due on the same day, my process for managing my time is to prioritize each task based on its importance and urgency. First, I will assess which tasks are most important in terms of their impact on the overall project or goal. Then, I will consider which tasks need to be completed first in order to meet deadlines. Finally, I will create a timeline that outlines when each task needs to be completed and assign it a priority level. This helps me stay organized and ensure that all tasks are completed by the necessary deadline.

I also use various tools such as calendars, task lists, and reminders to help me keep track of the tasks I need to complete. By breaking down larger projects into smaller tasks, I am able to focus on one task at a time and make sure that everything gets done on time. I also try to set aside some time each day to review my progress and adjust my timeline if needed.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this editor in chief position?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and why you’re the best person for this role. When answering, it can be helpful to highlight some of your most relevant skills or experiences that make you an ideal candidate.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me the best candidate for this editor in chief position. I have over 10 years of editorial experience, including 5 years as an editor-in-chief at a major publishing house. During that time, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of content creation, from concept to completion. I also developed and implemented strategies to ensure quality control throughout the entire process. My experience has enabled me to develop strong communication and organizational skills, which are essential for success in this role.

In addition, I am passionate about creating engaging content that resonates with readers. I understand how to craft stories that capture attention and drive engagement. I am also well-versed in the latest trends in digital media and can leverage those insights to create compelling content. Finally, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, allowing me to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.”

14. Which publication do you admire the most and why?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can apply that knowledge to your role as editor in chief. You should choose a publication that has similar goals or values to those of the publication you’re interviewing for, but it’s also important to pick one that stands out from the rest.

Example: “I admire The New York Times for its commitment to quality journalism and dedication to informing the public. As an Editor In Chief, I strive to uphold these same values in my work. The New York Times has a long history of delivering accurate, timely news stories that are both informative and engaging. They also have a strong focus on investigative reporting, which is something I believe is essential for any publication. Furthermore, they take great care to ensure their content is unbiased and fair, which is another important factor when it comes to producing reliable information. Finally, The New York Times has a diverse staff with reporters from all backgrounds, which allows them to bring unique perspectives to their coverage. These are all qualities I value highly as an Editor In Chief and would be proud to emulate at this new job.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of editing?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your editing style and how you prioritize tasks. Your answer should reflect your personal opinion on what’s most important in an editor’s job, but it can also be a chance to show off your critical thinking skills by explaining why that aspect is so important.

Example: “The most important aspect of editing is ensuring accuracy and clarity. As an Editor In Chief, I understand the importance of making sure that all content published meets the highest standards of quality. This means double-checking facts, verifying sources, and ensuring that the language used is clear and concise. It also involves looking for any potential errors or inconsistencies in the text. My experience as an editor has taught me how to identify these issues quickly and efficiently so that they can be corrected before publication. Furthermore, I am adept at working with writers to ensure that their work is polished and ready for publication. Finally, I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, so that our publications are always ahead of the curve.”

16. How often do you think an editor in chief should update their style guide?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your editing style and how you implement changes. Your answer should include a specific time frame for updating the style guide, as well as why you think it’s important to do so regularly.

Example: “As an editor in chief, I believe it is important to keep the style guide up to date. It should be updated regularly to ensure that all content produced by the team meets the highest standards of accuracy and consistency.

I recommend updating the style guide at least once a quarter or whenever there are major changes to the organization’s branding, such as a new logo or website design. This will help keep everyone on the same page and prevent any confusion when creating content. Furthermore, it is also important to review the style guide periodically for any outdated information or typos. By keeping the style guide current, we can ensure that our content remains accurate and consistent.”

17. There is a disagreement between two writers on how to cover a story. How do you handle it?

As an editor in chief, you may need to step in and make a decision when writers disagree on how to cover a story. An interviewer asks this question to see if you can handle conflict and make tough decisions. In your answer, explain that you would try to understand both sides of the argument before making a final decision.

Example: “When it comes to disagreements between writers, I believe that the best way to handle them is with a collaborative approach. As Editor in Chief, I would first listen to both sides of the story and try to understand each writer’s perspective. Then, I would bring the two together to discuss their ideas and come up with a solution that works for everyone. This could involve finding common ground or compromising on certain points. Ultimately, my goal would be to ensure that all parties involved are satisfied with the outcome and that the story is covered accurately and fairly.

I have experience managing difficult conversations like these, as well as working with teams to find creative solutions. My background has given me the skills necessary to effectively lead and manage conflicts while maintaining a positive work environment. I am confident that I can help resolve this disagreement quickly and efficiently, so that the story can move forward without any further issues.”

18. Do you have any experience working with freelance writers?

As an editor in chief, you may need to work with freelance writers. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have any experience working with freelancers and how you managed them. Use your answer to explain what steps you took to ensure the freelancer was able to complete their assignments on time.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with freelance writers. During my time as an Editor In Chief at my previous job, I managed a team of 10 freelance writers and was responsible for assigning them stories, editing their work, and providing feedback on how to improve their writing. I also worked closely with the writers to ensure that all content met our company’s standards and deadlines.

I believe my experience managing freelance writers has given me the skills necessary to be successful in this role. My ability to communicate effectively with freelancers, provide constructive criticism, and manage multiple projects simultaneously will be invaluable assets when it comes to leading a team of freelance writers.”

19. How do you ensure that the content published is of a high quality and meets our publication standards?

The interviewer may ask this question to understand how you ensure that the content published by your team is of a high quality and meets the publication standards. Use examples from past experiences where you ensured that the content was of good quality and met the publication standards.

Example: “I understand the importance of ensuring that content published is of a high quality and meets all publication standards. To ensure this, I have developed a comprehensive system for reviewing and editing content before it goes to print. This includes having an experienced team of editors who are well-versed in our publication’s style guide and can spot any errors or inconsistencies. They will also be able to provide feedback on how to improve the overall quality of the content.

In addition, I regularly review the content myself to make sure that it meets our standards. I am always looking for ways to improve the quality of the content and make sure that it is up to date with current trends and topics. Finally, I encourage open communication between my editorial team and other departments within the company so that we can work together to create the best possible content.”

20. If a writer submits an article that does not meet our guidelines, how do you handle it?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to understand how you handle conflict and make decisions. Your answer should show that you can be firm but also diplomatic when necessary.

Example: “If a writer submits an article that does not meet our guidelines, I would first take the time to review it and provide constructive feedback. I believe in providing clear and concise guidance so that writers understand why their work needs to be revised. I also strive to ensure that all of my feedback is respectful and encouraging.

Once I have provided feedback, I will then work with the writer to revise the article until it meets our standards. This could involve working together to make sure the content is accurate and relevant, as well as ensuring that the writing style is engaging and appropriate for the publication.”

21. What do you think makes an editor in chief successful?

This question can help interviewers understand your perspective on what it takes to be successful in this role. Use examples from your experience and explain how you think an editor in chief should act or behave.

Example: “I believe that an editor in chief must have a strong understanding of the publication they are overseeing. They should be able to identify stories and content that will engage readers, while also ensuring accuracy and quality. An editor in chief should also be organized and able to manage multiple projects at once. They need to be able to work with writers, editors, and other staff members to ensure deadlines are met and content is up to standard. Finally, an editor in chief should have excellent communication skills and be able to provide feedback and direction to their team in a constructive way.”

22. Describe your process for providing feedback to writers.

As an editor in chief, you’ll need to provide feedback on writers’ work. Interviewers may ask this question to learn how you give constructive criticism and help writers improve their writing skills. In your answer, describe a specific process you use for giving feedback. Explain that you want to make sure writers understand the feedback you’re providing so they can apply it to future projects.

Example: “My process for providing feedback to writers is focused on helping them improve their writing while also maintaining a positive and encouraging environment. I start by reading the piece carefully, making notes of any areas that need improvement or could be improved upon. Then, I provide detailed written feedback with specific examples and suggestions on how to make changes. Finally, I discuss my feedback with the writer in an open and collaborative manner. My goal is to help the writer understand why certain changes should be made and how they can best go about making those changes.

I believe this approach helps foster an atmosphere of trust and respect between me and the writers, which allows us to work together more effectively. It also encourages the writers to take ownership of their work and strive for excellence. Ultimately, I want to ensure that all pieces produced are of the highest quality and meet the standards set forth by the publication.”

23. What strategies do you use when editing stories?

Editors in chief need to have a strong understanding of the editing process. They should be able to edit stories and articles so they are clear, concise and easy for readers to understand. Your answer should show that you know how to edit effectively. You can talk about your strategies for proofreading, copyediting and other steps involved in the editing process.

Example: “When editing stories, I take a comprehensive approach that ensures accuracy and clarity. First, I review the story for any errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling. After this initial review, I look at the structure of the piece to ensure it is logically organized and flows well. I also pay attention to the tone of the article, making sure it matches the publication’s style guide. Finally, I check for factual accuracy by verifying sources and facts with reliable research.

I believe my experience as an Editor In Chief has given me the skills necessary to be successful in this role. My background includes working on both print and digital publications, so I am familiar with the different requirements for each medium. I have managed teams of editors and writers, ensuring deadlines are met and quality standards are maintained. I understand the importance of maintaining a consistent editorial voice across all platforms, and I strive to create content that engages readers.”

24. Are there any challenges that you anticipate as an editor in chief?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenges and obstacles. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to adapt to change and willingness to take on new responsibilities.

Example: “Yes, I anticipate a few challenges as an editor in chief. The first challenge is managing the workload of multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring that all deadlines are met and content is of high quality. This requires strong organizational skills to ensure that each project has its own timeline and resources allocated appropriately.

The second challenge is staying up-to-date with industry trends and changes. As an editor in chief, it’s important to stay informed on the latest developments in the field so that content can be tailored to meet the needs of readers. This includes researching new topics, understanding current events, and keeping abreast of any technological advancements.

Lastly, one of the most difficult challenges for an editor in chief is balancing editorial decisions with business objectives. It’s essential to maintain a balance between creating compelling content that resonates with readers and meeting the organization’s goals. This requires careful consideration of both sides of the equation to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved.”

25. Have you ever had to make a difficult decision as an editor in chief?

This question can help interviewers understand how you make decisions and the thought process behind them. Use your answer to highlight a specific decision you made as editor in chief, what factors influenced that decision and the results of your choice.

Example: “Yes, I have had to make difficult decisions as an editor in chief. One of the most challenging decisions I ever had to make was when I had to decide whether or not to publish a controversial article that could potentially damage our reputation. After carefully considering all of the potential risks and rewards associated with publishing the article, I ultimately decided to go ahead with it. This decision required me to weigh both ethical considerations and business interests, which made it especially difficult. In the end, the article was well-received by readers and generated a lot of positive attention for our publication. It also taught me the importance of making informed decisions based on careful consideration of all available information.”