30 HarperCollins Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our HarperCollins interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Market research is essential to HarperCollins to help us understand where to take our business in the years to come. Rate your research skills from 1-10. Do you enjoy conducting research?
How to Answer
In the media and publishing industry, research and reliable sources are everything. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of conducting robust and dependable research. Draw on your positive references when answering this question.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"One of the reasons why I would love to work for HarperCollins is because of your solid reputation for reputable sources and research. In my previous positions, I have always earned recognition for my great research skills. When you call my references, they will attest to this as well. There is always room for improvement, so for that reason, I would rate myself as an 8.5 out of 10 for research capabilities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to research capabilities, I am most definitely a 10/10. An eleven even, if that is allowed! I love researching a large range of products and am very data and analytically minded."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2. Would you consider yourself a creative person?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creative activities and how you have implemented your creative desires in the workplace. Even if you do not consider yourself to be a 'creative person,' there is a significant change that you have made creative minded decisions in your career.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"That's an interesting question for me because I have never considered myself creative in the traditional sense of being artistic. I am, however, a very creative individual when it comes to new ways to motivate my team."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am creative in the sense that I am great at seeing all sides of a negotiation, I can use creativity to close a deal, and I am a solid writer. With that said, give me a paintbrush, and I will have no idea what to do. I suppose creativity comes in all forms!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. How can HarperCollins motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job. Here are some ways that an employer may try to motivate you. Which ones resonate most with you?
- Incentive programs where points are earned
- Showing complete trust in your work and performance
- Setting smaller, more achievable goals
- Helping you to find your higher career purpose
- Being a positive example to you
- Maintaining an open and transparent workplace
- Personalized incentives vs. Team driven incentives
- Getting to know you on a personal level
- Positive feedback based rewards system
- Offering a stable work/life balance by encouraging time off
- Letting you know your voice matters
- Allowing you to take the lead on projects that excite you
- Handing out big-picture projects, so you feel that you are contributing to the company's future
- Public recognition
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a team leaderboard, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am motivated by skills advancement opportunities. My previous employer put me through a technical writing course as well as two advanced Excel workshops. That was motivating to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. Is compensation the most critical factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much emphasis you put on pay when considering a new position. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors in a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- work/life balance
- amount of travel involved in the role
- overall medical and health benefits
- additional perks such as car allowance, cell allowance, spending account
- amount of vacation time
- the type of clients or authors you would be working with
- career growth opportunity
- the size of your new team
- the company's reputation
- overall workplace culture
Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job. If you are not sure on details for this role, you can ask!
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For me, as a manager, the most important factor in accepting a new role is the health of the company, and it's employees. I am looking to take on a positive-minded team. I like to work with enthusiastic people that I can motivate. With that said, I am also looking for a competitive financial offer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"At this point in my career, I am looking to join a publisher that will allow me to work on more significant projects and with more robust tech and applications. Compensation is a driver, of course, but not the only one."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. What do you know about HarperCollins?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much time you have put into researching their organization before coming into your interview today. It's essential that you take the time to dig deep into the company's history as well as their successes. Just reading their Wikipedia page may not be enough. You should also Google search their company and look for awards or other exciting accolades to mention.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I know that HarperCollins established over 30 years ago and you have been a part of many exciting mergers and acquisitions since then. There are growth opportunities available here, and you put a lot of energy into creating a corporate culture that gives back. For instance, I recently read that HarperCollins actively supports local and national organizations to foster a universal passion for reading. Whether it's through supporting literacy-based organizations, providing volunteers, donating books, or creating unique collaborations that benefit readers, you find ways to partner hand-in-hand with communities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I greatly appreciate HarperCollins' literacy-focused partnerships. Your organization genuinely cares about boosting literacy rates across the world. I was especially interested in finding that HarperCollins has meaningful partnerships with First Book, Change for Kids, and World Book Nigh. I would be proud to work for such a socially conscious organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. What will you accomplish in the first 90 days of working for HarperCollins?
How to Answer
HarperCollins is in the top 5 publishers in the world, with over $1.5B in annual revenue and some of the most notable book releases in the world. You should come prepared for your interview with an exceptional plan of action, ensuring that you will be a substantial addition to their company from the start.
It's a good idea to have a 30, 60, and 90-day plan set out when you go into an interview. This approach is especially important when you are applying to a management or sales based position where there are expectations of immediate action and results. You can jot down a few ideas or create a slide presentation with graphs - whatever makes you most comfortable! You can discuss numbers, training achievements, pain points the interviewer has mentioned in the past, or how you plan to fit in with your new team.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In the first 90 days, I plan to establish and manage a growth strategy for Facebook, Instagram and new platforms for your magazine, Harper's Magazine. I will establish and manage a community engagement strategy for Facebook, Instagram, and new platforms for the brand. In addition to this, I plan to establish a vision and creative growth strategy for each brand's already robust newsletter program, in collaboration with the HarperCollins newsletter team. It's important that I help maintain a consistent voice for each brand on social platforms."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the first 90 days, I plan to fast-track my training by spending time on the weekends and evenings studying hard. I believe in doing everything faster and better so you will see results and accomplishments from me very quickly. I want to be on a full retail sales budget in the first 60 days as opposed to your typical 90 days."
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years with HarperCollins?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are interested in forging a long-term career with them by discussing the career path you foresee if hired. What are your career goals, and how do you hope to achieve them, with HarperCollins?
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In the next few years I would like to move into a more serious leadership function, such as the Executive Managing Editor opening currently posted. In my current company, there is little room for growth, which is why I feel that working for HarperCollins would fit into my long-term career goals. I want to work for you and grow into a leadership role with your organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"5 years from now, I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own. Your Associate Product Manager position caught my eye. I feel like I am progressing at a rate that will make this a possibility, and am committing to learn more about metadata optimization, acquisition strategy, and retail strategy to help make that happen in my career."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. A large part of creating digital content is in the creative process, but what strategic elements need to be considered for content creation to be highly effective?
How to Answer
HarperCollins has a heavy hand in digital content and online publishing. Demonstrate your familiarity with content effective marketing by speaking of data and analytics first. Then, talk about other essential non-creative parts of content strategy that should be incorporated.
While the creative and strategic elements of content creation will cross over into one another, avoid talking about the creative process when answering this question much, if at all.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"A content marketing strategy always starts with data about the audience to ensure the content is appropriately created and distributed. The data will tell you what kind of content your audience will enjoy, where and how you can expect them to consume it. Timing is also important, and research can be used to figure out the best times of the month, week, and down to the time of day when posts will get the best visibility. After forming and deploying a content plan, it's important to be consistent with analyzing the performance of all posts, which means looking at various engagement metrics like impressions, clicks, shares, likes, and comments - not just the number of comments but what's being said by the audience. All of the before mentioned, lets you measure the success of your plan and make continuous improvements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Data from different sources, for example, keyword research, surveys, or machine learning, needs to be analyzed to plan the best possible content and its reach, both organically and during paid promotions. Planning what topics to cover, keeping an editorial calendar, and knowing how to recycle posts effectively are important parts of creating a feeling of consistency and the proper messaging for a brand's audience. Lastly, it's a good idea to balance the human element with automation tools that will allow your content to be distributed in a timely and organized way that best fits the preferences of your audience."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. Describe to me the types of digital media you are most experienced with.
How to Answer
There are a plethora of digital media forms today, and the interviewer would like a breakdown of the ones with which you are most familiar. Some types of digital media include images, video, gamification of many kinds, social media, websites, online channels, and more. Speak to the forms of digital media you are most experienced with while being sure to address the types most helpful to HarperCollins when it comes to the digital publishing side of their business.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work primarily with online channels such as YouTube and IGTV, creating video content. I also have experience working on projects related to gamification ads. I saw in the HarperCollins job posting that you were looking for someone with in-depth knowledge with IGTV and Insta Stories for marketing. I would rate my knowledge in this area an 8 out of 10, leaving me very confident that I would meet your requirements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"While completing my degree in Digital Marketing, I learned a great deal about digital media production and design for video and web platforms. Most of my experience is with creating compelling video ads, and shorts for use online and on social media."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. What are your 3 favorite forms of entertainment?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the types of media and entertainment that you enjoy consuming regularly. Talk to the interviewer about your favorite forms of entertainment and be sure to include why they are your top choice.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My favorite forms of entertainment have always been podcasts, sci-fi fiction book series, and nature magazines. I have always wanted to work in the publishing industry, being the first to read new books from up-and-coming authors, and having a hand in the type of published literature that people are gifted."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"There are so many great forms of entertainment media available to us. I am more traditional and would say that my favorite forms still include print media, documentaries, and podcasts that focus on economics and business."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. If you could be known as a thought leader across any topic or industry, which would you choose?
How to Answer
HarperCollins would like to get to know you better, and the topics for which you are most passionate. If you could be represented and widely known for your knowledge on any subject or industry; which would you choose? Express your interest and enthusiasm to the agent, showing them why they should pick you up for their talent roster.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"The books I read are primarily mystery, thriller, and drama. If I could be known as an expert on any topic, it would be for true crime stories. I have conducted a great deal of research on these topics and am comfortable teaching many psychology-based concepts to others."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"One topic I am most passionate about is the topic of writing, itself. I would love to be known as an expert in writing non-fiction pieces and teaching other aspiring writers how to come up with best-selling concepts."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. What is the difference between a publisher's frontlist and backlist?
How to Answer
In publishing, a frontlist is a list of a publisher's newly published book titles. A backlist is a list of a publisher's older books. The backlist is usually a book that is off the bestseller list and has been in print for more than a year. The interviewer wants to see that you understand these terms, which are pretty basic in the publishing industry. Keep your answer simple and, if possible, give specific examples from books that are currently on the HarperCollins frontlist and backlist.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I understand the frontlist to be newly published book titles where a backlist would be books that have been in print for about a year or more. For instance, HarperCollins has A Woman is No Man, by Etaf Rum on the frontlist at the moment, and titles such as Shaken, are likely on your backlist."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Right now, I would guess that The Song of the Jade Lily by Kirsty Manning is on the frontlist at HarperCollins where Charlotte's Web is on your backlist. Generally speaking, a newly published book will be on the frontlist where a book over a year in print will fall onto the backlist."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
13. How do you go about fact checking, and researching sources?
How to Answer
In publishing, no matter which genre or medium you're involved in, it's essential that you check for facts before hitting that proverbial publish button. Now, more than ever, a company can receive significant backlash from posting or publishing anything misleading or untrue. Discuss the steps that you take to verify facts and sources for all content.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"At this point in my publishing career it's much easier for me to weed out an unreliable source versus a reputable one. When I first began my career; however, I trusted that many sources were credible, not accounting for the fact that there is so much fake news out there. Now, I triple check against our library of content, and online. Before any piece of content goes out, I will send it to our professional editor for a final once-over."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I will dig deeper into any sources, quotes, statistics, and do my best to find where they originated. If I cannot find the original source, I simply will not use the source."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
14. What is the key to success for a publisher in this digital era?
How to Answer
The digital world is transforming traditional publishing, and the interviewer wants to know what you believe to be the key to success amidst this shift. Discuss what you think a publishing company should do, in this digital era, to remain successful and relevant. Keep your response positive rather than shifting into negative language. For instance, mention what is great about this digital era versus focusing on the hardships.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe the key to success for a publisher in this digital era is to remain relevant in your core area, while also exploring the ways that digital can complement your existing products. If you are a traditional book publisher, for instance, why not explore the impact that a social media campaign could have for a new author. As in any industry, it's critical that we remain up to date with technology so that we are always meeting our audience where they are showing up."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"The key to success in publishing, and many other industries is listening to your customers and taking action on what they are teaching you. For instance, in the publishing industry, it's critical that we deliver works on topics that people are searching for, and seeking out. We can accomplish this approach through surveys, polls, purchased data, and even some analytics on Google algorithms."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
15. What are the benefits for an author to publish with HarperCollins versus self-publishing?
How to Answer
The idea of self-publishing has become increasingly popular, especially with self-publishing tools being available at anyone's fingertips. The interviewer wants to see that you are an advocate for the traditional book publishing route. Discuss what you believe to be the benefits of using a traditional publisher such as HarperCollins.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"There are tremendous benefits to working with a traditional publisher. These include the fact that a publisher knows how to advocate for your manuscript. They also have more connections than any independent author could ever gather. Another key point is that a traditional publisher can negotiate much better when it comes to book deals. I am eager to work with HarperCollins helping authors to navigate the challenging world of publishing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I believe the list of benefits is lengthy and include greater visibility and audience reach for an author, the fact that a literary agent can negotiate very well for you and your manuscript. Also, with less need to coordinate all aspects of publishing, an author will have more time to focus on what they do best - write!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
16. Tell me about your experience collaborating with marketing, sales, editorial, and design teams.
How to Answer
The hiring authority is looking for details on your experience when it comes to cross-departmental collaboration. In publishing, it takes many passes through many hands to complete a project so, it's essential to HarperCollins that you can work well with other people through a variety of departments. Give an example of how you collaborate with a diverse team, in your current role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role we have a staff of 450 people within ten departments. Any given week, I will collaborate with marketing, sales, human resources, and IT. These are the departments with which I collaborate most often. I believe that everyone has a great deal of value to offer so, for that reason, I embrace every opportunity to collaborate cross-departmentally."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I look forward to getting to know your marketing, editorial, and design teams here at HarperCollins. Currently, in my internship, I have spent two weeks in each department, getting to know the ins and outs of publishing, design, marketing, sales, and even public relations. The experience has been invaluable."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
17. How would you increase printed book sales in an online-centric world?
How to Answer
In a world immersed in online content, the hiring authority would like to know how you would capture the interest of printed book readers. Discuss one idea you have that would help print sales to increase in an online world.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Print is still very relevant, especially when a publication attracts a particular niche. In an online-centric world, I would place focus on the nostalgia that comes from reading your favorite author and flipping the pages of a great book."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Many people love the offering of traditional books and the way they feel in their hands to read, versus using a tablet and reading an ebook. To increase printed book sales, I would focus on those features."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
18. How do you transition between the creative and analytical sides of publishing?
How to Answer
Wearing multiple hats is the name of the game when it comes to publishing. One moment you could be discussing the analytics of a past publication where the next you could be giving your opinion on the design of a book cover or layout of a new online article. It's essential that you show the interviewer your ability to be flexible on the job by pivoting tasks regularly. If possible, give an example of a time when you were able to flip between creative and analytical.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe that I transition quite well between the creative and analytical. Generally speaking, I am more of a creative minded individual; however, my experience in business has allowed me to see the data and analytics behind a successful publication. So, in addition to my creative approach, I also ask myself or my team how our decisions will impact the company's bottom line. If hired, I will deliver a nice balance between analytical thinking and creative mindedness."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My educational background is in business with a focus on accounting and financial management. This coursework means that I am naturally inclined to look at data such as numbers, results, spend, account activity, and ROI. With that said, I spend my spare time in creative writing, dabbling in design, and other activities that relax and entertain me. I believe that I will pivot well between the creative and analytical sides of publishing because of this variety in knowledge and interests."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
19. What drew you to HarperCollins?
How to Answer
This question is similar to 'Why do you want to work here?'. To answer this question effectively, it's essential that you have reasoning that is specific and will stand out from other people competing for this role. Giving a general answer such as, 'You have a great workplace culture' could potentially disqualify you from winning the position. Show the interviewer that you have done your research on HarperCollins by coming prepared with some compelling reasons to work for them.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have seen the HarperCollins logo consistently inside my favorite books for many years. Each year HarperCollins comes out with the hottest new authors, thrilling a variety of readers and audiences. With HarperCollins, you know you are picking up a book from a quality author; even when they are not a household name. In addition to this, your company is highly involved in supporting creativity and culture; a topic that gets me fired up. You support several non-profit organizations and initiatives committed to promoting literacy and education such as
First Book, Literacy Partners, Volunteers of America's Operation Backpack program, and Change for Kids."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Initially, I was drawn to HarperCollins because you publish books from many of my favorite authors, including Lauren Conrad. Your company is known to be a stand-out publisher since 198 and well respected. I also appreciate that you have recently made an effort to increase your exposure on social media channels like Instagram. Your feed is entertaining for book lovers like myself."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
20. Walk me through your editing experience. How would you rate your editing skills from 1-10?
How to Answer
Even if your primary role with HarperCollins is not officially as an editor, the interviewer will want to see that you have a solid basis when it comes to language, context, tone, grammar, spelling, and more. Emphasize your solid command of the language, and your ability to pay attention to the small details. Discuss the types of editing jobs you have taken on, in the past.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have helped to edit documents large, and small, including whitepapers, web copy, and sales contracts. I am confident in my language, spelling, and grammar skills. It's rare that a mistake will get past me, as I pay strong attention to the small details."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not formally edited a document of significance, I do always make a habit of double checking my emails and other internal or external communication. I have used editing programs such as Grammarly in the past, for assignments and papers while attending university."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
21. Name for me your three favorite books, and why they are your favorite.
How to Answer
Since HarperCollins publishes books, the hiring managers want to make sure they are bringing on a team member with a passion for books and reading! There is no wrong answer to this question. Open up about your favorite literary works.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I love reading and try to pick up a new novel at least once per month. I read a variety of genres; however, my all time favorite book series is the Harry Potter series. I have read through the entire book series about three times. The way JK Rowling builds a world of suspense and magic never becomes tiresome."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My top three favorite books happen to be across multiple genres. One is 'All the Lives We Never Lived' by Anuradha Roy. This novel is by a renowned Indian writer who brings in stories from childhood with a theme of independence and finding oneself. The other is 'Becoming' by Michelle Obama, a memoir of the former First Lady. Lastly, the book of poetry by Rupi Kaur called 'Milk and Honey.' Her poetry is dark and beautiful."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
22. In which area are you the strongest: editorial, book sales, or book marketing?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to assess which tasks and departments you will best work within. The way that you respond to this question could determine where the hiring authorities place you if hired by HarperCollins. Be honest with the interviewer on where you feel you best fit. Avoid pigeonholing yourself into one particular area.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have strengths in a variety of areas; however, if I had to choose one stand-out area, I would choose book marketing. Some of the crucial book marketing steps that I have led include designing websites, building an email list for pre-sales, and creating social media strategies such as hashtag-driven contests."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have performed well in all three of these areas but to choose just one, I would pick book sales. I have a solid background in sales with formal post-secondary education in sales and marketing. I look forward to working with HarperCollins and your authors to push record book sales this year."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
23. Do you believe paid social campaigns are useful for promoting book releases, and if so, why?
How to Answer
The interviewer asks this question because as social media platforms mature, they are becoming a more significant part of promoting book releases, and other publications that may not even had a digital focus. Most publishers have recognized how social media can further enhance their targeting and reach when it comes to book promotions. As part of a progressive publishing house, it's essential to know why paid social promotions are helpful.
If you take the position that paid ad campaigns are not useful, your answer will be considered to be wrong. While paid campaigns don't always deliver perfect results, sponsored content gains priority over that which is not.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe that paid social platforms are more important than ever, and while having a good audience and engagement helps increase your content's visibility organically, it's almost impossible to achieve the same results through organic reach only. A paid campaign is useful in restoring that visibility. It can also be beneficial to run paid campaigns because the social media platforms provide tools to analyze their progress, make adjustments to them as you go, and monitor your ROI."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In recent years, it has become clear that social media platforms prefer paid campaigns versus organic reach. Algorithms set by the platforms often do not allow a company's content to be seen on their audience's feeds without paying for it to appear to certain members. Now, this is where a publisher can benefit from paid advertising the most. With a paid campaign, they essentially tap into the platform's data on their users by specifying the demographic their content will be visible to. This enables them to engage only with people that are likely to be interested in their publications or latest book releases."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
24. The publishing industry has many tight deadlines. How do you manage your time, ensuring that your deadlines are met?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you do to ensure that your deadlines are met and that you are consistently on time with projects and other expectations. Discuss how you stay organized, getting into the small details of how you plan your day or the tools you use to track your work and progress. You can mention a time when you were close to missing a deadline, including the actions that you took to ensure you delivered on time.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"With five years' experience in the publishing industry, I fully understand that my day can change on a dime. I remain on top of my deadlines by being prepared for a plan B at all times. Also, I track my progress and tasks through an app called Trello. This type of application works well for communicating with my team, ensuring we all work hard to meet expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I learned during my time in university that deadlines are met most easily when there is organization and when tasks are properly mapped out from the start. I learned the hard way, having to cram in a few assignments because I was not well prepared. Now, when I begin a project, I create a timeline with an estimate on how long each task will take. From there, I divide my time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
25. Who is your favorite author, and why?
How to Answer
There is no right or wrong way to answer this question! Unless you do not know any author names off hand, which could turn out disastrous since you're interviewing for a book publisher! Think of your favorite author and be prepared to discuss on a meaningful level, why you appreciate their work. Giving a surface-level answer would be the wrong thing to do here.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My all-time favorite author is Stephen King because of his incredible success. He's become the figurehead for suspense, horror, and supernatural fiction. On top of selling over 350 million copies of his books, many of these have become films, comic books, and television series. It's incredible what he has accomplished."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"From the time I was a kid, and still today, my favorite author is Judy Blume. She wrote young adult fiction that rubbed a lot of parents the wrong way, back in the 1980s and 1990s. She created this whole genre that came with important conversations that were once taboo. Decades later, she remains incredibly relevant in her space with many authors trying to emulate her style."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
26. What can HarperCollins do best, for an up and coming author?
How to Answer
HarperCollins would like to get an idea of the ways you feel they could support authors. Discuss with them what you believe to be their responsibilities in this collaboration but also discuss how you will hold up your portion of the duties. How can HarperCollins best ensure an author's success, and what are you willing to do to make sure you support their efforts?
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For an up and coming author, I believe that HarperCollins could help by not only helping to sell a book or manuscript but also to teach the author about the industry and how to navigate its ins and outs. Negotiating lucrative contracts is another important aspect for HarperCollins to handle. As an experienced publishing professional, I know first hand how challenging it is for an author to fight for their work and its worth."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As an up and coming author myself, I believe what HarperCollins could best do for a new author is to teach them how to navigate the publishing industry. In turn, I believe that new authors could better deliver their work, spending less energy on negotiating and editing, and more energy focused on their creative craft."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
27. If you could pitch me one idea for a book,what would it be?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to get to know you. One great way to do this is to ask about your interests. Generally speaking, you would want to pitch something you are knowledgeable in and passionate about. There is no right or wrong answer to a question like this; however, the interviewer will want to see that you are insightful and have enthusiasm for an exciting topic. If you choose an item that is related to HarperCollins or their publication, that's great but certainly not a requirement for this to be a successful answer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I read a lot of history books and find so much of it fascinating. In particular, ancestry and genealogy. If I could pitch you one idea for a book, it would be a how-to for people who were starting on discovering their family lineage."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a new graduate, I have a keen interest in productivity hacks for new university students. In my first year, I struggled with organization and time-management. By the end of my second year, I had mastered the art of juggling many priorities. This topic is in high demand, and I would pitch it as a series of e-books with a lot of great resources and graphics."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
28. With which publishing categories are you most familiar? How will this knowledge help you in this position with HarperCollins?
How to Answer
There is a multitude of publishing categories in which you could bring experience. This experience includes magazines, physical books, ebooks, catalogs, online publishers, newspapers, and more. Discuss with the interviewer the areas which you are most experienced. If you want to dive deeper into genres, you can certainly do that as well; especially if your experience is related to the publishing activities at HarperCollins. Be sure to sound confident, and finish your answer by tying in how this experience will make you successful in your new role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am most familiar with book publishing, working with seasoned authors, often in the children and young adult realm. This experience will help me at HarperCollins because I know how to move content that appeals to a wide audience with significant age and interest gap."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Although I am new to publishing, I have the most experience reading and identify best with fashion and lifestyle publications. The mediums that I am most familiar with include online magazines and other digital content. I have a great eye for design and layout for online publications and believe I could offer HarperCollins fresh insight."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
29. In your opinion, what is the most influential form of media today?
How to Answer
Have a meaningful conversation with the interviewer on media influence. With so many forms of media out there, which do you feel is the most influential at the moment? Be sure to back your answer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I wish that I could say that books are still the most influential form of media today; however, I feel that the most influential form of media today is social media and online content. As a whole, the human race wants fast, easy to consume, entertainment news. Our rate of consumption is unprecedented, and the fastest way to access it is through online content sharing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"There are many important forms of media today - so many, in fact, that people seem to be getting overwhelmed. I would still say that traditional media, in the form of books, television, and the daily news, is at the top when it comes to the number of people influenced and the quality of the content distributed."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
30. What do you expect to be the most significant trend in publishing this year?
How to Answer
When you come to an interview prepared to discuss industry trends and happenings, you are showing the interviewer that you have done your homework on HarperCollins and that you have a vested interest in what they are achieving within their market. There is no real right or wrong answer here; as the interviewer just wants to know that you have done some research on the industry. So long as your response is intelligent, the interviewer should be happy with hearing your insight.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"From what I have read, the most significant trend in publishing is meeting the increasing demand from audiences to have their publications available through a variety of mediums. With a huge number of entertainment options available to consumers these days, it will be essential for publications to continue exploring multiple mediums. For instance, it's excellent that HarperCollins has made content available across many digital platforms, publishing thousands of eBooks, worldwide, every year."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Independent and new authors who are publishing onto alternative mediums such as Wattpad is one topic that has grabbed my interest. I understand that traditional publishers enjoy searching out for new authors on these platforms because it leads them to the authors and also their loyal readers. I believe we will see many more emerging authors discovered from online writing platforms like this."
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 19th, 2019