Hiring managers ask this to see how you manage your time and prioritize tasks under deadlines. You need to explain that you schedule dedicated blocks for research, writing, and revisions, and stay flexible to adjust as needed.

Example: I make a point of setting aside dedicated blocks in my schedule for each stage—research, writing, and revising—so nothing gets rushed. For example, when working on a recent piece about local politics, I started with focused research days before drafting. Then, I leave time between writing and editing to return with fresh eyes, which helps me catch details I might otherwise miss. It’s about planning realistically and sticking to that plan.

Questions like this assess your ability to think outside the box and engage readers uniquely. You need to describe a specific article where your creativity stood out and explain how it captured attention or offered a fresh perspective.

Example: Certainly. In one of my recent columns, I explored everyday moments through the lens of unlikely heroes—like the humble postman or a late-night shopkeeper—bringing fresh perspective to familiar scenes. By blending storytelling with subtle social commentary, the piece invited readers to rethink their daily routines and find meaning in the ordinary, sparking thoughtful conversations beyond the page.

This question helps interviewers see how you tailor your writing to connect with different readers and keep them interested. In your answer, explain how you adjust your tone and language to suit your audience and use storytelling or vivid details to engage readers, while also showing that you revise your work based on feedback to improve clarity.

Example: To keep my writing both engaging and clear, I tailor my tone depending on who I’m speaking to—whether that’s a specialist or someone new to the topic. I focus on straightforward language and storytelling to hold attention. I also value feedback and often revisit my drafts to tighten the message or clarify any points. For example, after a reader survey, I simplified a complex piece, which received much better responses.

This question is designed to see if you can bring originality to your writing and make common topics engaging through fresh perspectives. You need to explain how you found a new angle, describe your creative process, and share the positive impact your unique approach had on your audience.

Example: In a recent piece about London’s housing crisis, instead of focusing on shortages or prices, I explored how local community gardens offer unexpected relief and hope. I dug into stories of neighbours transforming small green spaces, which brought a fresh, human angle to a well-covered topic. The response was great—readers appreciated the optimism amid the usual negativity, sparking more engagement and shared stories.

Interviewers ask this to see how you handle complexity and think critically under pressure. You need to clearly describe a difficult research project, explain the challenges you faced and how you adapted, then show the positive impact your work had on the final article.

Example: One project involved digging into the decline of high street shops in small towns. Gathering reliable data was tricky, as local records were often incomplete. I adapted by interviewing shop owners and council members directly, which added rich, personal insights. This blend of hard data and firsthand stories helped shape a nuanced piece that resonated with readers and sparked local discussions on revitalising these communities.

Employers ask this to see if you can make complex information accessible and engaging without losing accuracy. You need to explain how you simplify key findings using clear language, connect them to relatable stories, and ensure credibility by verifying sources carefully.

Example: When I use research in my columns, I focus on breaking down key points into everyday language that anyone can grasp. I weave facts into stories or relatable examples, so the information feels natural rather than like a lecture. Before sharing, I always check sources carefully, making sure they’re trustworthy and relevant. For example, when writing about health trends, I compare studies and highlight what’s most useful for readers’ daily lives.

Employers ask this to see if you stay informed and understand how changes impact your work. Highlight a few key trends you follow and explain why they matter to your role or the publication’s audience.

Example: I’m really intrigued by how digital platforms are reshaping storytelling, making it more interactive and immediate. Readers now engage with content across podcasts, newsletters, and social media, which offers writers new ways to connect. I also find the focus on niche voices and diverse perspectives refreshing—it’s encouraging to see stories that challenge traditional narratives gaining more space in mainstream media.

Interviewers ask this to see how you manage time and stay organized under pressure. You need to explain that you assess deadlines and importance, then create a clear schedule to focus on urgent and high-impact tasks first.

Example: I usually start by assessing which columns have the earliest deadlines and which require more research. I break tasks into manageable parts, tackling the most time-sensitive or complex pieces first. For example, when juggling weekly and monthly deadlines, I focus on the weekly column early in the week, then reserve afternoons for in-depth work. Staying organised helps me keep each piece fresh and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

Employers ask this to see how well you manage deadlines and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment. Describe how you assessed deadlines to prioritize articles, used calendars or tools to schedule your writing, and adapted when unexpected changes arose.

Example: In my previous role, I often juggled deadlines for weekly columns and feature articles simultaneously. I start by mapping out each project’s timeline, breaking tasks into manageable chunks. When unexpected delays arise, I reassess priorities and adjust accordingly. For example, once I balanced a breaking news piece with a long-form article by dedicating focused blocks of time to each, which kept both on track without sacrificing quality.

Employers ask this question to see how you create a reliable and engaging reading experience by keeping your writing style consistent. You need to explain that you develop a personal style guide, research your audience to tailor your tone, and perform multiple edits to maintain a clear and consistent voice throughout your columns.

Example: To maintain a steady voice, I first settle on a style that feels true to both the subject and readers. I keep the audience in mind throughout, imagining a conversation with them. When revising, I read the piece aloud to catch shifts in tone or awkward phrasing. It’s like tuning an instrument—small adjustments keep the message clear and the tone consistent. For example, if I’m writing something lighthearted, I avoid slipping into overly formal language mid-way.

This question assesses your skill in blending imaginative storytelling with rigorous truthfulness, which is essential for credible and engaging journalism. You need to explain how you ensure accuracy through thorough research and fact-checking while using creative techniques to make complex information accessible and interesting.

Example: Balancing creativity with facts means grounding my ideas in solid research while finding fresh angles to engage readers. I double-check sources to keep accuracy intact but don’t shy away from injecting personality and voice. For example, when writing about climate change, I combine data with relatable stories to make complex issues accessible without losing truth. It’s about being both imaginative and trustworthy, adapting style to serve the story’s needs.

This interview question assesses your ability to organize and prioritize your writing tasks efficiently while staying flexible. You need to explain that you use tools like digital calendars or planners to set deadlines and adjust your schedule quickly when urgent stories arise.

Example: I rely on a digital calendar to map out deadlines and allocate time for research, drafting, and editing. If sudden news breaks, I adjust my schedule quickly to stay relevant. I also use tools like Evernote to capture ideas on the go, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks. This balance helps me stay organized while remaining flexible in the fast-paced world of column writing.

Employers ask this to ensure you value accuracy and credibility in your work. You need to explain that you cross-check multiple reputable sources, critically evaluate their trustworthiness, and seek expert insights through interviews to confirm facts before publishing.

Example: When I write, I start by cross-checking facts from multiple reputable sources to ensure consistency. I don’t take information at face value—I dig a little deeper, often reaching out to experts or conducting interviews to get firsthand insights. For example, when covering health topics, I might speak directly with specialists to confirm details, which helps build trust and credibility in my work.

Employers ask this to see how you maintain originality and connect with diverse readers. You should explain that you use storytelling and personal anecdotes, adjust your tone for different audiences, and research unique angles to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Example: To keep my writing fresh, I like mixing up the way I tell a story—sometimes weaving in personal anecdotes, other times playing with structure to surprise readers. I’m mindful of who I’m writing for, adjusting my tone so it feels just right. Plus, I dig deep to find angles others might miss, like spotlighting everyday moments that reveal bigger truths, making familiar topics feel new and engaging.

Hiring managers ask this question to understand how you organize your thoughts, improve your work, and respond to criticism. You need to explain that you start by outlining your ideas to structure the column clearly, then revise multiple times to enhance clarity and flow, and actively seek and incorporate feedback to strengthen your writing.

Example: When I start a column, I usually jot down key ideas and sketch a loose structure to keep my thoughts clear. As I write, I revisit and reshape the piece, focusing on clarity and flow. I find feedback invaluable—whether from editors or peers—as it helps me see blind spots and sharpen the message. For example, early suggestions once helped me tighten a controversial piece, making it more engaging and balanced.

Hiring managers ask this question to see if you stay current with industry trends and have a broad, informed perspective. You need to mention reputable UK publications and writers you follow, explain how you keep updated regularly, and show that you critically compare different viewpoints to form your own insights.

Example: I regularly follow The Guardian and The Times for their insightful coverage, alongside columns by writers like Yasmin Alibhai-Brown and Simon Jenkins. I also keep an eye on industry newsletters and social media for emerging voices. This mix helps me spot trends early and approach topics with a well-rounded perspective, blending established viewpoints with fresh angles.

Employers ask this question to see if you can distinguish trustworthy information from unreliable content, which is crucial for maintaining your credibility as a columnist. You need to say that you rely on established news outlets, academic journals, and official reports, and that you verify accuracy by cross-referencing multiple sources and fact-checking details.

Example: When researching, I focus on sources with strong credibility, like established newspapers, academic journals, and official reports. I cross-check facts and consider the author's expertise and perspective to ensure relevance. Depending on the topic, I also look at recent studies or interviews to keep the piece fresh. For example, when covering Brexit, I combined government data with expert analysis and public opinion to provide a balanced view.

Employers want to know that you actively seek reliable sources to stay informed and maintain your credibility as a columnist. You need to say that you regularly follow reputable news outlets, subscribe to industry newsletters, and engage with social media or professional networks to keep your perspective current and accurate.

Example: I make it a habit to read widely—from national newspapers to specialist blogs—and listen to podcasts featuring industry experts. Attending events and engaging with colleagues also helps me catch emerging trends firsthand. For example, I follow debates in real time and often jot down ideas that later inspire my columns. Staying curious and connected really keeps me in tune with what’s happening.

Hiring managers ask this to see if you stay informed and can make your writing timely and engaging. You need to say that you continuously monitor industry news and trends, and tailor your columns by linking to recent developments and adjusting based on audience feedback.

Example: To keep my columns in tune with what’s happening in the industry, I regularly scan newsletters, social media, and key forums. When something sparks a fresh angle or debate, I weave that insight into my writing. I also pay close attention to readers’ reactions; their questions and comments often guide my focus, helping me stay connected to what really matters to the audience at any given moment.

Questions like this gauge your awareness of current trends and your ability to analyze relevant topics thoughtfully. You need to briefly describe the event or topic and explain your perspective or the insight you provided in your writing.

Example: Recently, I explored how the rise of AI is reshaping journalism, especially in the UK. I examined both the opportunities — like faster fact-checking — and concerns, such as maintaining editorial integrity. Sharing examples from major news outlets adapting to these changes helped highlight the delicate balance between innovation and tradition in the industry today.

Hiring managers ask this question to see if you can accept criticism constructively and improve your work. You need to say that you listen carefully, stay open-minded, and use feedback to enhance your writing while maintaining your unique voice.

Example: I see feedback as an essential part of the craft. When editors or readers offer perspectives, I listen carefully and consider how their input can sharpen my work. For example, a suggestion to clarify a complex argument once helped me connect better with my audience. Ultimately, embracing edits turns writing into a conversation, making the final piece stronger and more engaging.

This question evaluates your ability to gather accurate and diverse information, which is crucial for producing credible and engaging columns. You should say that you use various methods like interviewing experts and eyewitnesses, verify facts by cross-referencing sources, and adapt your research approach depending on the topic.

Example: I usually start by tapping into a mix of sources—interviews, news reports, and social media trends—depending on the topic. I cross-check facts by comparing different viewpoints and official data to ensure accuracy. For example, when covering a health story, I might speak to experts and review recent studies. Staying flexible helps me dig into a wide range of subjects confidently and keep my columns credible.

Employers ask this to see how you handle pressure and prioritize tasks under tight timelines. You need to explain a specific example where you stayed organized, focused, and communicated effectively to meet the deadline successfully.

Example: Sure. Once, I was assigned a piece with just a few hours to spare, covering breaking news. I focused on key facts first, quickly drafting a clear, engaging story. Then, I refined the language while keeping an eye on the clock. Prioritising speed without sacrificing quality helped me deliver on time, and the editor appreciated the balance between accuracy and urgency.

Interviewers ask this to see how creative and resourceful you are in generating content that keeps readers engaged. You need to explain that you draw inspiration from everyday experiences, current events, and diverse perspectives, while always aiming to offer unique insights.

Example: I find inspiration everywhere—news stories, everyday conversations, even a walk through the city. I try to view familiar topics from new angles or connect different ideas to spark something original. For example, I might explore how a local event reflects wider social trends, making the column both relatable and insightful without feeling forced or predictable.

Hiring managers ask this to assess your experience and writing style. You need to highlight specific columns or opinion pieces you've written and explain their impact or audience briefly.

Example: Certainly. I've contributed regular opinion pieces to a regional newspaper, focusing on social issues and cultural trends, which sparked thoughtful discussions among readers. I also wrote a monthly column for an online platform where I explored community stories with a personal touch. These experiences taught me how to engage audiences by blending insight with relatable storytelling.