What is the difference between a publisher's frontlist and backlist?

"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, Scholastic has 'Supergifted' on the frontlist at the moment, with the author's first book 'Ungifted' likely on your backlist."

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 Scholastic frontlist and backlist.

"Right now, I would guess that 'What's His Face' by Gordon Korman is on the frontlist at Scholastic where 'A Scale of 1-10' may on your backlist since it's the last item listed on your website in the kids' section. Generally speaking, a newly published book will be on the frontlist where a book over a year in print will fall onto the backlist."

Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?

"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture which includes factors such as benefits and the amount of paid vacation time."

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 - the industry you will be working in - amount of vacation time - the type of clients you would be working with - the location of the company - 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!

"I am earning my way through University right now, so the two most important factors to me are flexibility in my schedule, and the opportunity to earn a fair wage. I am available evenings and weekends but come next semester; I will be available during most afternoons."

How do you like to encourage ideas in others?

"I encourage my team to tap into the best parts of themselves. It helps to ask probing questions to get them to generate ideas on their own. I have found that by painting a long-term vision for where I want to go, my team will often jump in with creative solutions to get us there."

The interviewer would like to know how you have encouraged others to think creatively. Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to promote creative ideas in your team members. Here are some ways that you can encourage ideas in others: - Get to know them and what they like to work on - Send an encouraging email letting them know you like their plan or ideas - Publicly praise their efforts - If they are doing a great job, offer them more related opportunities - If you are a leader, then tell them that you like their ideas - Say things like 'Well done' or 'Nice work' regularly - Show that you believe in their quality of work before they even deliver it

"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."

How has your current job changed over the years?

"When I initially started my job four years ago I was a junior level associate. Today, I am responsible for leading a team of 8 junior associates. My role does not look the same at all, and I am thankful for the growth opportunity that my current company has offered me. In addition to the change in leadership responsibilities, I have also enjoyed two major promotions. I attribute this to hard work and dedication."

The interviewer wants to know more about your career progression. Additional responsibilities, promotions, and changes in your job title all indicate that you were competent and successful in your role. This question allows you to go more in-depth about how your job has evolved. If nothing has changed much over the past couple of years in your position, focus on what you have learned. Are you better at managing teams now that you have gone from supervising one to five people? Are you exceptionally good at problem-solving now that you've learned to troubleshoot IT related problems? Talk about how the changes in your job have taught you new skills and helped you develop the ones you already have.

"Initially, I was hired as a part-time sales associate. I graduated from college and received a promotion to full-time customer service lead, then assistant manager. My role now includes correspondence with our corporate head office, interviewing candidates, and training new hires. I love to learn new processes and look forward to the challenges this role with Scholastic will offer."

What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

"I work best in environments that are organized, well-scheduled, and positive by nature. I hear that Scholastic offers this type of environment. Is that correct?"

The interviewer would like to know how to ensure a healthy level of productivity from you. Are you able to be productive in any environment? Are there particular types of situations that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment that offered in this position before the interview.

"I understand that the Scholastic work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and found that I could be very productive when there was the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments although that isn't my preference."

When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.

"I understand that some relationships come quickly and others take time to nurture. When starting a new job all that I can do is be my true self and let my personality, integrity, and reliability speak for itself."

The interviewer would like to know how you plan to start relationships with your new co-workers. Due to a wide variety of personalities, coworker connections can take time to form. How do you ensure that you have a strong line of communication with your co-workers and supervisors, right from the start? Here are some ideas for getting started on the right foot: - Be willing to accept feedback and help - Offer to join a committee or volunteer assistance in some way - Do not have an air of entitlement or act as though you know the ins and outs immediately - Avoid all company gossip, at all cost - Be thankful for the equipment that you have. Don't complain about your used computer or your slow dial out line! - Be early on your first day (and every day after that!) - Come dressed appropriately

"I understand that people like to talk about themselves. The best way that I can create new relationships with others is by asking them about themselves. Hopefully, we find common ground and make a quick connection!"

What are your strengths?

"I am not sure what others would pick, but I feel that my strengths are my dedication, determination, and ability to build long-lasting and trusting professional relationships with the people whom I lead. I look forward to using these skills in my role with Scholastic."

Which personal strengths make you excellent at your job? Advantages can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role. If you can tie these strengths into the qualities mentioned in the job posting, even better!Some great strengths to mention are: - Communicative - Loyal - Collaborative - Tech Savvy - Flexible in Schedule/Availability - Persistent and Determined - Eager for Knowledge/New Skills

"My strongest skills that help me daily are my people-skills, and the ability to close a sale without being pushy. I relate to the customer, get to know them and their needs, build excellent rapport and can make solid recommendations that suit them. They buy, return, and repeat. And it is something I enjoy a lot. I look forward to applying these skills to this sales role with Scholastic."

Where do you see your career one year from now?

"One year from now I would like to be well versed in your publishing operations, and be leading a team. Perhaps having a few new hires, I would also like to see myself making an impact on your company's employee retention rate. Scholastic holds such longevity in the publishing industry, and I look forward to contributing to this 100-year track record."

This question is a slight variation of the typical interview question, 'Where do you see yourself in five years?' Instead, the interviewer may ask more directly, 'Where do you see yourself in the next year?'Interviewing, hiring, and onboarding is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor for any company. Scholastic wants to know that, if engaged, you will see this as a longer-term fit. Discuss your career plans, goals, and how those fit with what they are offering. Describe your passion for this opportunity, and what you like about Scholastic.

"One year from now I would like to see myself climbing the ranks as your top Scholastic sales representative in this region. It's important to me that I am a winner - I'm competitive!"

Tell me about a time that you failed. How did you get back up again?

"Last year I made a couple of bad hires. Normally my hiring process is airtight, but it is not perfect. Hiring the wrong person is an expensive and time-consuming mistake, so I was undoubtedly frustrated and discouraged. Rather than lose confidence in my abilities, I engaged the Human Resources department in simplifying our onboarding and training process. We have not lost any employees in the last 18 months which is a fabulous record for our company."

We all fail at things from time to time. There is no need to be ashamed of defeat. Instead, what the interviewer is looking for is evidence that you can bounce back from perceived failure. Give an example of a time when the outcome was not what you wanted it to be, but you were able to recover. Perhaps you were better off in the end, or you learned a valuable lesson.

"One of the bigger perceived failures that I can think of was not graduating as soon as expected, with my University degree. I encountered a few personal factors that pushed my graduation date back one year. It was a bit embarrassing at the time, but truth be told, I am thankful that I could complete my degree at a comfortable pace. I finished with excellent grades as well."

When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

"I perform new functions daily and am most challenged when a new marketing technique comes to the industry. I love to learn new strategies; however, in the marketing industry these can change on a dime, and it's often a full-time job to remain current!"

The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were asked to take on a task for which you knew very little. Have you ever had to take on a responsibility or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Include the outcome, and what you learned.

"My first management job was the scariest time in my career! I honestly didn't know if I was doing my job correctly. I led by instinct, took leadership workshops, and spent a lot of time reading books related to effective people management."

What is the most significant achievement you have on the horizon?

"I have some great accomplishments on the horizon including the launch of my biggest clients' digital marketing strategy later this month. This account is the biggest that I have worked with, and it's a fascinating campaign. With that said, I look forward to joining your organization and working with large clients like this more often."

When you show that you have goals and achievements on the horizon, you are letting the interviewer know that you put thought into your career and what you bring to your employer. Employees who do not have goals set just beyond their reach are typically disengaged and unmotivated. This achievement does not need to be complicated. It can be as simple as finishing a beautiful Powerpoint presentation, finishing work-related coursework, or reaching a sales target.

"I am graduating with my English degree this month and will be ready for full-time work! I am excited to get my career in publishing started!"

The publishing industry has many tight deadlines. How do you manage your time, ensuring that your deadlines are met?

"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."

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.

"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."

What is the key to success for a publisher in this digital era?

"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."

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.

"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."

If you could pitch me one idea for a book, article, or editorial, what would it be?

"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 an article, it would be a how-to for people who were starting on discovering their family lineage."

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 Scholastic or their publication, that's great but certainly not a requirement for this to be a successful answer.

"As a recent English Major, I have a keen interest in teaching the basics of English to ESL students. This topic is in high demand, and I would pitch it as a series of lessons on video and audio."

With which publishing categories are you most familiar? How will this knowledge help you in this position with Scholastic?

"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 Scholastic because I know how to move content that appeals to a wide audience with significant age and interest gap."

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 Scholastic. Be sure to sound confident, and finish your answer by tying in how this experience will make you successful in your new role.

"Although I am new to publishing, I have the most experience reading and identify best with educational 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 Scholastic some fresh insight."

Walk me through your editing experience. How would you rate your editing skills from 1-10?

"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."

Even if your primary role with Scholastic 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. You will be working for an educational publisher, after all! 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.

"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."

How do you transition between the creative and analytical sides of publishing?

"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."

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.

"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."

What are the benefits for an author to publish with Scholastic versus self-publishing?

"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 Scholastic helping authors to navigate the challenging world of publishing."

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 Scholastic.

"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!"

How would you increase magazine subscriptions and physical book orders in an online-centric world?

"Print media is still very relevant, especially when a publication attracts a particular niche as Scholastic does. In an online-centric world, I would place focus on the nostalgia that comes from ordering with Scholastic, along with the fact that Scholastic has been a trusted source for reading content since 1920."

In a world immersed in online content, the hiring authority would like to know how you would capture the interest of new magazine subscribers and loyal book lovers. Discuss one idea you have that would help Scholastic to stand out in an online world.

"I believe that offering online clubs and exclusive member discounts through a membership site would be an excellent way to continue promoting and boosting the sales of your physical publications."

What drew you to our publication?

"I have been a Scholastic customer since I can remember. I recall being so excited about the book order magazines arriving at our school. I would spend hours flipping through and carefully making my selections. To work here would be a great full circle event. Also, your publication has been going strong since 1920, making you one of the longest lasting publishing companies in the world."

This question is similar to 'Why do you want to work here?'. To answer this question effectively, it's important 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 role. Show the interviewer that you have done your research on Scholastic by coming prepared with some compelling reasons to work for them.

"Initially, I was drawn to your publishing company because I have a keen interest in children's education. Your company is known to be a stand-out publisher in this realm, 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 children and adults, alike."

Describe to me the types of digital media you are most experienced with.

"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 Scholastic job posting that you were looking for someone with in-depth knowledge with YouTube marketing. I would rate my knowledge in this area an 8 out of 10, leaving me very confident that I would meet your requirements."

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 listed in the Scholastic job description.

"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."

What has been the best short-form content project you have worked on this year?

"I genuinely enjoy working on both long and short-form content projects; however, I do find short-form digital content to be especially thrilling to create. A favorite short-form project that I worked on this year was a series of educational shorts for a children's channel with which I collaborated. It was important to me that the messaging be clear while also being fun and educational. Mission accomplished, as the series received more shares, comments, and downloads than any other we have released in the past five years."

The interviewer would like to have more information on the project in which you are most proud. If you have a digital portfolio with you, this is a great tool to use when describing the best short-form content project you have worked on this year.

"This year I was part of a team that created a series of interactive landing pages for an upcoming film we were marketing. To include interactive elements such as reveal marketing, contests, and gamification, we grew engagement exponentially. I would love to show you more from my portfolio, which I prepared for you."

If Scholastic hired you today, what would you accomplish first?

"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. If hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."

When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate.

"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter, and year to identify any bottlenecks or shortfalls and set a plan to correct them."

In which area are you the strongest: editorial, book sales, or book marketing?

"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."

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 Scholastic hires you. Be honest with the interviewer on where you feel you best fit. Avoid pigeonholing yourself into one particular area.

"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 Scholastic and your authors to push record book sales this year."

Tell me about your experience collaborating with marketing, sales, editorial, and design teams.

"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."

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 Scholastic 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.

"I look forward to getting to know your marketing, editorial, and design teams here at Scholastic. 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."

What do you expect to be the most significant trend in publishing this year?

"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 Scholastic has made ordering available online, in addition to your web-based Reading Club."

When you come to the interview prepared to discuss industry trends and happenings, you are showing the interviewer that you have done your homework on Scholastic and that you have a vested interest in what they are achieving within the educational publishing 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.

"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."

Who is your favorite author, and why?

"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."

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 well-known publisher focused on encouraging children to read! 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.

"From the time I was a kid, and still today, my favorite author is Judy Blume. In fact, I bought my first Judy Blume book from a Scholastic book order at school! 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."

Name for me your three favorite books, and why they are your favorite.

"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."

Since Scholastic 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.

"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."

Where do you believe the magazine industry will be in 5 years? Support your response.

"I was recently reading an article on trends and facts in the magazine industry, from a journalism publication which had some powerful ideas on the future of magazines. Even though the purchase of physical magazines has declined over the past 15 years, the number of visitors coming to a magazines' website had increased exponentially. I believe that alternative print publications will exist for many years to come; however, many mags will begin to rely more heavily on their digital subscriber base who still go to them for reliable, consistent, and trustworthy content."

The interviewer wants to know that you believe in the longevity of Scholastic and the future of the magazine industry. Of course, since you are interviewing for a magazine publication, you want to keep your response positive. Be sure to support your opinion with the research you have done in the magazine publishing industry.

"I believe that magazine subscribers are also going to ask for digital subscription options, allowing them to pivot between the two mediums. Although sales of traditional print mags have decreased over the years, discerning readers will still turn to these traditional methods for reliable news. This engagement may be more digital and online, as time goes on."

In your opinion, what is the difference between marketing and advertising?

"To me, the most significant difference between marketing and advertising is that advertising is simply one component of an entire marketing plan. The term marketing encompasses topics such as public relations, distributions, sales, market research, and more."

There are terms in the publishing industry that are similar; however, the interviewer wants assurance that you fully understand the semantics. Briefly discuss what you believe to be the most significant difference between marketing and advertising.

"Marketing refers to an entire plan when it comes to approach and distribution. Advertising is simply one facet of a marketing plan."

Scholastic Interview Questions

Go Back

1. What is the difference between a publisher's frontlist and backlist?
2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
3. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
4. How has your current job changed over the years?
5. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
6. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.
7. What are your strengths?
8. Where do you see your career one year from now?
9. Tell me about a time that you failed. How did you get back up again?
10. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
11. What is the most significant achievement you have on the horizon?
12. The publishing industry has many tight deadlines. How do you manage your time, ensuring that your deadlines are met?
13. What is the key to success for a publisher in this digital era?
14. If you could pitch me one idea for a book, article, or editorial, what would it be?
15. With which publishing categories are you most familiar? How will this knowledge help you in this position with Scholastic?
16. Walk me through your editing experience. How would you rate your editing skills from 1-10?
17. How do you transition between the creative and analytical sides of publishing?
18. What are the benefits for an author to publish with Scholastic versus self-publishing?
19. How would you increase magazine subscriptions and physical book orders in an online-centric world?
20. What drew you to our publication?
21. Describe to me the types of digital media you are most experienced with.
22. What has been the best short-form content project you have worked on this year?
23. If Scholastic hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
24. In which area are you the strongest: editorial, book sales, or book marketing?
25. Tell me about your experience collaborating with marketing, sales, editorial, and design teams.
26. What do you expect to be the most significant trend in publishing this year?
27. Who is your favorite author, and why?
28. Name for me your three favorite books, and why they are your favorite.
29. Where do you believe the magazine industry will be in 5 years? Support your response.
30. In your opinion, what is the difference between marketing and advertising?

Scholastic Interview Questions

1. What is the difference between a publisher's frontlist and backlist?

2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?

3. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?

4. How has your current job changed over the years?

5. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

6. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.

7. What are your strengths?

8. Where do you see your career one year from now?

9. Tell me about a time that you failed. How did you get back up again?

10. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

11. What is the most significant achievement you have on the horizon?

12. The publishing industry has many tight deadlines. How do you manage your time, ensuring that your deadlines are met?

13. What is the key to success for a publisher in this digital era?

14. If you could pitch me one idea for a book, article, or editorial, what would it be?

15. With which publishing categories are you most familiar? How will this knowledge help you in this position with Scholastic?

16. Walk me through your editing experience. How would you rate your editing skills from 1-10?

17. How do you transition between the creative and analytical sides of publishing?

18. What are the benefits for an author to publish with Scholastic versus self-publishing?

19. How would you increase magazine subscriptions and physical book orders in an online-centric world?

20. What drew you to our publication?

21. Describe to me the types of digital media you are most experienced with.

22. What has been the best short-form content project you have worked on this year?

23. If Scholastic hired you today, what would you accomplish first?

24. In which area are you the strongest: editorial, book sales, or book marketing?

25. Tell me about your experience collaborating with marketing, sales, editorial, and design teams.

26. What do you expect to be the most significant trend in publishing this year?

27. Who is your favorite author, and why?

28. Name for me your three favorite books, and why they are your favorite.

29. Where do you believe the magazine industry will be in 5 years? Support your response.

30. In your opinion, what is the difference between marketing and advertising?