What would you consider your most significant achievement?

"I have some great accomplishments on the horizon, including the launch of my biggest ever content marketing strategy later this month. This account is the biggest that I have worked with, and it's a fascinating campaign. I lead a team that created a series of interactive landing pages containing reveal marketing, contests, and gamification. Based on our trials, we expect to grow engagement exponentially. This effort has been challenging and rewarding, and based on how we drove this project home, this already feels like my most significant achievement to date."

Your interviewer is curious about what your most recent or significant career accomplishment will say about your experience level and what you are striving for. How you answer will potentially serve to inform the interviewer of your work standard, and whether you aim to go above and beyond or cruise along with the status quo. Those without goals set just beyond their reach are typically a sign of a disengaged employee who is not particularly focused on advancing their career and development.

The NY Times repeatedly states on their website that they are looking for people who share their values of "independence, integrity, curiosity, respect, collaboration, excellence, and are committed to the mission of The Times." They also state that when it comes to their work and their reporting, "There are no halfway measures." So when thinking of an example of where you've recently passed a significant milestone in your career development, identify all the ways in which it reflects their values.

What questions do you have for me?

"I do have a few questions, and I read online that you like to keep the question and answer section of the interview to around ten minutes, so I'll try to move fast. What would the first 30 days look like for the person in this role? Does this position involve a lot of traveling? What do you enjoy most about working here? Another question, knowing how competitive and coveted a position at The New York Times is, I'd like to know if there are any red flags or concerns you have regarding any of the answers I've delivered in this interview. Having a chance to discuss them and clear anything up will give me the peace of mind of knowing I was thorough in answering all of your questions in this interview while leaving no stone unturned in performing at my best."

Questions such as these typically come towards the end of your interview. Most career-focused individuals who are eager to develop professionally will exhibit strong communication skills, and active listening skills, are engaged, and constantly ask questions. So, your interviewer is interested in learning how curious you are by nature, and how thoroughly you've prepared for this interview. The more you research the NY Times, and this role, the more likely you'll be to have questions. They'll also be interested in learning whether you've taken measures to answer those questions on your own before asking them in the interview. Those questions you save for the end of the interview will stand out and likely say the most about you as a candidate. So, in preparation for your interview, make sure you have some original and memorable questions to ask and don't run out of questions before you get to the end.

During your interview, you'll be given an opportunity to ask about anything "that might be on your mind related to this position or the company. Feel free to ask for more details about the role, or about our company goals and values, how we are organized, how we work together or about anything else on your mind." According to one of the NY Times recruiters, this question presents you with an opportunity to put your best foot forward. "It's your turn to lead the conversation. In many ways, this is the most important part of the interview. Asking questions is an essential skill. A candidate who asks good questions reveals an interest and passion for the role that can't be faked. It shows they care enough about the opportunity to try to understand it fully. Smart, specific questions show that they have done their research in advance; that they are truly curious about what it might be like to work at The Times. And what they ask can help me learn more about them. I don't think it's a coincidence that my best hires have asked the most questions. Curiosity is a core characteristic."

What does integrity mean to you?

"In short, I would say that integrity in the simplest terms is automatically doing the right thing. If that is your instinct, you have integrity. It is what makes you dependable and trustworthy. It is being true to your word, and only speaking with authority when you know what you are talking about, with the facts close to your chest."

Often, when an interviewer asks questions such as these, they are asking whether you are aware of what the heart of that question means to them. For example, integrity is one of their core values and is their number one guiding principle for their code of conduct. So, your interviewer wants to know whether you are aware of why this is an important question to ask and whether you can demonstrate how you already embrace this value and can articulate how. "Communicate the value of integrity."

"Our Values: Integrity - The trust of our readers is essential. We renew that trust every day through the actions and judgment of all our employees, in our journalism, in our workplace and in public. Our Code of Conduct helps make sure that everyone at The Times understands what it means to act with integrity and the expectations and responsibilities that come with it. Our commitment to integrity: Every day, from all around the world, you work tirelessly to deliver on our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world. When it comes to earning and keeping the trust of our readers, partners and colleagues, it is our value of integrity that demands that we hold our work, and ourselves, to the highest standards. Lead by demonstrating commitment to our values and upholding our ethical standards."

What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years?

"I have a degree in communications with a focus on journalism. So I would love to find the right mentor at The Times, if I am so fortunate to be rewarded this opportunity, to help me navigate my way into a journalism position while nurturing my growth within the company. If given the chance, I would love to have my versatile background help me succeed beyond any one role, enabling me to be a key player to many."

Your interviewer is curious whether you see this as a long-term fit. How you answer stands to reveal how your career goals for the next 5 years may align with the opportunities the NY Times advertises. To assure your interviewer that you are interested in forging a long-term career with them, explore their developmental offerings, and explore the direction you could see yourself growing in within their company.

Here are some of the career growth value propositions the NY Times advertises in their efforts to recruit their target talent. "You need two kinds of mentors at The Times, one for career growth, then another to navigate. We will extend career frameworks that clearly define assessment criteria and promotion processes. We will create clearer career expectations and pathways, support the evolution of our culture, and individuals' own growth with programs that help all of us become stronger contributors."

If you land this job, what’s in it for you? What would you like to get out of it beyond a paycheck? How will this help you grow?

"At the small newspapers I've worked for, I've relentlessly asked questions, aiming to learn and grow. But, I feel I've now reached a point where they don't seem to have many more coaching opportunities for me which would help foster my professional development. I really feel like I've hit a threshold with my formal education and online learning as well, and feel like the next stage of my journey is a broader set of real-world experiences. I feel like the growth opportunities offered by The NY Times have that to offer. I'm ready to move onto bigger and better life lessons that this paper, and this big wide wild world, has to offer."

This question is a favorite of a NY Times recruiter and may be presented in one form or another by whomever you are interviewing with. The interviewer specifies that they are not interested in hearing how great you think the NY Times is. They are asking about you. They want to know how curious, ambitious, and driven you are. They want to know if you are pursuing this opportunity to expand your knowledge and professional experience. They want to know where, and how far, you hope this opportunity may take you in your professional development.

Here is some more from the NY Times recruiter who crafted this question. "Ultimately, I want to hear that you're driven to learn and grow, in a way that's specific and meaningful to you. Ambition for personal growth indicates both an openness to new challenges and a willingness to learn. Most of all, it shows that the job will be rewarding for reasons beyond the paycheck. None of us should be under any illusions that you will be doing this job forever. The role will challenge you to not only deliver great work, but develop the skills that will help you move on to bigger and better things in your career."

Why are you interested in working with The NY Times?

"I grew up in a family that has long considered The New York Times the best destination for journalism in the world. So, considering my career pursuits, landing a position here would be a dream come true. If I had to work my way up somewhere else before winning a position here, I would take that route, but ideally, I would prefer a more direct route. Wherever my career journey takes me, I hope it will ultimately end up here for the long term, working for the most persevering and respectable paper in the world."

Your interviewer is curious whether working for them is at the top of your list and your ultimate goal, or whether you are playing the numbers game, trying to find any job anywhere in your field or the industry. Although there is nothing wrong with pursuing your goals in a thorough and strategic manner, you need to keep in mind the goals of your interviewer as well. They aren't interested in hiring anyone who has experience in this field or in their industry. They are interested in finding someone who shares their company's mission and vision, will work well with their teams, and embodies their company culture.

When researching their website and their careers site, pay close attention to their culture language, their value propositions, and what they feel sets them apart. "Times employees are part of a growing, unified team that is driven to build the best destination for journalism in the world. We intend to become even more valuable to people by helping them make the most of their lives and engage with their passions. We create our journalism in pursuit of the truth, without fear or favor. People come to The Times to contribute to a worthy mission, and to work alongside incredible colleagues who excel in their craft. We aim to be the best news destination in the world. Expert beat reporting that allows readers to stay abreast of important subjects and storylines. Independent, deeply reported journalism is the fuel that powers a healthy and engaged society. We are covering the most important topics of our time and telling stories that would otherwise go untold."

Talk to me about your communication skills.

"I would say that I am primarily courteous, empathetic, and diplomatic in my communication. I believe that you cannot be a strong communicator unless you are consistent with your messaging, in public and in private. I am a strong listener and validate those I engage with ease. I never speak with authority on any topic to which I don't have full possession of the facts. I rarely offer my opinion unless it is asked of me, and even then I filter my opinion in accordance with my audience. Primarily, I try to live according to the old proverb, the silent person is often worth listening to."

Possessing strong communication skills, both written and verbal, is an absolute necessity in every position within the NY Times. This extends beyond how effectively you communicate professionally at work, but also in your personal conduct outside of work as well. So, your interviewer needs to know whether you would be effective in representing the NY Times to your peers, stakeholders, and readers, both on and off the job. To answer this question, touch on all of your communication skills, both written and verbal. Touch on your tendency to be curious and ask questions, to actively listen, while touching on your sense of empathy, emotional intelligence, responding to situations non-defensively, your ability to assess the facts, to mirror, and respond thoughtfully, to name a few.

Here are a few statements on communication from the NY Times careers site and their code of conduct. "We treat our readers no less fairly in private than in public. Civility applies whether an exchange takes place in person, by telephone, by letter or online. Simple courtesy suggests that we not alienate our readers by ignoring their letters and emails that warrant reply. Anyone who deals with readers is expected to honor that principle, knowing that ultimately the readers are our employers."

How would you go about expressing your views and personal opinions when discussing current events outside of work?

"Unfortunately, when you work for a major news media company, your opinions are never your own. Once people learn what you do for a living, they are only interested in engaging with the voice of your profession, or the employer which you serve as a representative. So, I have grown very accustomed to embodying this identity and participating in this dance. In most situations, I simply fuel the conversation by listening, engaging, and asking thought-provoking questions, deftly avoiding ever sharing my opinions. I might share statistics, or creditable articles we've recently circulated or those of other creditable news agencies. If I have made the person I am engaging with feel validated, and heard, while challenging their worldview solely through asking questions that enable them to think for themselves, then I have done them, myself, and the news agency I work for a service."

In most job interviews there is a high likelihood you'll be asked a few similarly phrased questions which test your active listening skills and your attention to detail. Your answer will reveal how closely you're paying attention, and how original and distinct each of your answers are may offer an indication of your experience level.When answering this question, you'll want to showcase how familiar you are with the voice and opinions of the NY Times, and your ability to exercise discretion when expressing thoughts or opinions that deviate from their positions. The NY Times, outside of their opinion or editorial articles, advertises that they practice "ethical journalism, without fear or favor." And, they trust those they employ to serve as representatives of their brand.

"Staff members are free to discuss their own activities in public, provided their comments do not create an impression that they lack journalistic impartiality or speak for The Times. No employee may make statements on behalf of the company or share confidential information without the company's express authorization. This is true for communications through any channel or medium. Each of us must take care never to give the impression that we are speaking for The Times when we are not authorized to do so. If you make any statements about the company publicly, whether in person, on social media or through any other channel of communication, it is important that you make clear such statements reflect your own opinions and not those of The Times. Be mindful that if your social media profile identifies The Times (or a subsidiary) as your employer, the public may attribute your statements to the company."

What does the truth mean to you?

"I would say that the truth is impartial and blind to bias or opinion. It is clear, unforgiving, and factual. And, if the facts aren't clear, the truth must likewise reflect that."

This is another question where the interviewer is asking how your ideals and character align with theirs. Their mission begins with a commitment to the truth. In fact, one of the top taglines for the NY Times is, "The Truth is worth it," which is reiterated by their value of independence. So, spend time meditating on how all of your values and commitments align with theirs, and how you already are, in essence, one of them. "We tell and share stories with respect, empathy and accuracy."

One of the NY Times values is independence. "Over a hundred years ago, The Times pledged 'to give the news impartially, without fear or favor, regardless of party, sect, or interests involved.' That commitment remains true today: We follow the truth, wherever it leads. Our Mission: We seek the truth and help people understand the world. This mission is rooted in our belief that great journalism has the power to make each reader's life richer and more fulfilling, and all of society stronger and more just."

What makes you the right fit for The NY Times?

"I would say that I am the right fit for The New York Times simply because I have the right brand of talent and ambition, which I feel is far more valuable than skill alone. I bring a unique perspective informed by a unique set of experiences, with a voice that is on-brand with The New York Times. I am passionate about the Times' mission, and my values are in line with theirs, and above all, I always have, and do all I can to defend our First Amendment rights, just as the NY Times has always done."

Your interviewer isn't asking you why you want to work for them. They are asking you why they want you to work for them. In other words, they are curious how familiar you are with the NY Times, their mission, their values, and their culture, and what positions you as their ideal candidate. How you answer may inform them of how thoroughly you've prepared for the interview by researching them and yourself, and whether you've identified how you fit their mold and are aligned with their target talent.

Take note of how they describe their people on their website to get an idea of the teams they've invested time and energy building. This will give you an idea of the type of talent they aim to recruit. "The Times attracts talented and passionate people who produce and support the distribution of the world's best news report, one that is unrivaled in its ambition, breadth and independence. We employ journalists, developers, strategists, videographers, marketers, art directors and many others. All of us at the company, whether we gather news, explain why our journalism is worth paying for, defend our First Amendment rights or participate in the awe-inspiring ballet of printing and delivering the newspaper to a million doorsteps, know that the integrity of our journalism comes first. To produce our signature journalism and dynamic products that stand apart, we need the finest talent in the world. We value employees at all stages of their careers who bring different perspectives and experiences to The Times."

Beyond our journalism, how else do you connect with The Times?

"I am a big fan of The New York Times Magazine and am addicted to WireCutter as well. I've attended a few of the virtual live events as well, and the festival back in 2019. How about you?"

The interviewer wants to know how familiar you are with all the NY Times offerings, going beyond their newspaper. How engaged you are with everything that is the NY Times may stand to inform them of how invested you are in this opportunity to work with them. Research and read up on every offering the NY Times has to offer.

As the NY Times advertises online, "There are many ways Times enthusiasts can connect with us beyond our journalism. From live events to writing courses to sporting Times-branded gear, fans can show their support for our work and engage with us on a deeper and more personal level. Whether in person or virtual; live or pre-recorded; intimate conversations or multi-day experiences, New York Times events are expressions of our journalism. Our journalists join industry experts, celebrities, public figures, innovators, artists and trailblazers to discuss the issues affecting your world." So do your research and explore their past festivals, the Climate Hub, WireCutter, their Dealbook Conference, TimesTalks and their online merchandise store, to name a few. Additionally, explore The School of The New York Times which caters to their "intellectually curious Times enthusiasts."

How would you approach a situation where you witnessed a coworker or colleague engaged in unethical conduct?

"I am far from a black-and-white thinking individual. I believe the world is in varying shades of gray. Yet, in situations where I have made a vow to uphold and be guided by the principles of my employer's code of conduct, my decision tree would be quite clear. In this way, I am very by the book. So, I would adhere to my principles, guided by my integrity, and would do the right thing by reporting the unethical conduct through the appropriate channels. Also, depending on the circumstances, I might inform the unethical individual of my actions, and suggest they take advantage of the opportunity to change course or to take ownership of their actions."

Your interviewer needs to ensure whoever they consider bringing on board will be able to protect the interests and reputation and act accordingly with their code of conduct. This includes having the courage to speak up and do the right thing when necessary, ensuring those you work with act according to their code, and being willing to inform your superiors when unethical conduct occurs.

As detailed in their code of conduct, they expect every employee to speak up when necessary, and they offer several channels to do so. "Conduct that breaks the law or violates this Code can have significant consequences for both the company and the individuals involved. Each of us has a responsibility to report anything that might compromise our commitment to integrity, including any violation of this Code or any other suspected legal or ethical violation. By speaking up early, the company can address concerns before they become serious matters."

Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with someone you worked with.

"I have disagreements with others all the time. It's part of being open to having your thoughts and opinions challenged and challenging others to learn and grow as well. Just the other day I was having an exchange with a colleague at work. They were thinking about discussing a certain topic with a sensitive individual and wanted to run their approach by me. I expressed I felt their approach would inadvertently offend them. We discussed it, and ultimately they decided not to take my advice. They later reported that they felt their approach was fine in the end. I still feel their conversation might have gone better if they'd taken my advice, but I admit I might be wrong. We both moved on. There were no hard feelings or anything. We just came to an understanding that we didn't agree on this topic. No big deal."

Your interviewer needs to ensure that you can effectively collaborate and engage in debate in a collaborative, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent manner. How you answer stands to inform your interviewer of whether you perceive such discourse as necessary communication towards accomplishing the end goals of the team, or whether you perceive such disagreement as a conflict.

"We treat everyone with fairness, empathy and respect and approach interactions with each other from a place of grace. We value one another, embrace differences, and seek input from people with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We endeavor to anticipate and recognize potential biases, keep them from compromising our work and respond to constructive feedback that challenges our personal views. We take care with our words and actions to understand how they might be perceived."

Tell me about yourself.

"I first and foremost have always considered myself a writer. I wrote short stories and poetry from a very young age. Joining the school paper resulted in the next stage of my evolution as a writer, and I had a few big articles while on that paper, such as when I blew the lid of the city where I lived doing illegal toxic dumping on public land. Then, when I went to college, I pursued my degree, intending to land a job anywhere in the industry to get my foot in the door. Now that I have worked for a few papers on the marketing side, I am ready for the next stage of my career, which I hope will lead to a formal journalism position. So, here I am again, applying for the sixth time to The NY Times. This time, I feel more ready than ever to join the greatest paper in the world."

Your interviewer is familiar with the contents of your resume. Now, it is their job to get acquainted with you. Your response will help them determine if your personality is compatible with their mission, values, culture, and teams. If you feel nervous, try to relax. The easier you make their job, the better the interview will be for both of you. So try to relax, and be your best, most engaging self. Try to feel safe and be sincere and authentic. Doing so will only increase your likelihood of delivering a great interview, and presenting your best self.

Before the interview, write a brief bio, known as a capsule bio, that is typically about 200 words. Ensure it highlights your relevant life experiences for the position. The personal information you can provide includes your birthplace, a brief overview of your parents and upbringing, significant educational and professional accomplishments, and the reason for your pursuing this opportunity with them. Share your background, professional interests, values, purpose, and future plans. Share how your professional experience has influenced your self-awareness, growth, and continuous development, and how they have prepared you for this opportunity. Practice it, and aim to come across as calm and relatable.

Do you have any other creative pursuits or hobbies outside of work?

"Well, one of my daily hobbies, which is something I do every day when I wake up in the morning while having my coffee, is to sharpen my mind by working on the New York Times crossword puzzle. I'm addicted to it. I truly love wordplay, so any word puzzle comes my way, and I'm all over it. I also write poetry. In the evenings, I like to read a romance novel or watch something on the television. On the weekends, I like to get out my pent-up energy by dancing, attending local art events, going to the theater, or painting. Cooking is an art form I am passionate about as well."

Regardless of whether you've added some personal skills or hobbies to the bottom of your resume, your interviewer is offering you an opportunity now to showcase your personality and character by sharing other creative interests. How you answer will inform them of whether you're a well-rounded individual with other interests, or if you're a one-dimensional career-focused professional. Those who have interests outside of their profession are more emotionally balanced, have a stronger work-life balance, a greater likelihood of career satisfaction, and are less likely to burn out on the job. Therefore, your answer provides insights into how balanced of a professional you are.

During your interview panels, you will be asked about your experience and interests, your thoughts about the position or positions you are being considered for, and what you think of The Times. This is according to one of the New York Times careers blogs, from The NYT Open Team, which is a team of New York Times employees writing about workplace culture. This question is also a balancing act. On one hand, they're looking for assurances you'll be able to build relationships with your new teams while embodying their culture, mission, and values. On the other hand, how effectively you balance your personal life and work life often relies on being able to leave your work behind, and engage in outside activities and interests aside from what's happening in the workplace.

Enriching your personal life with other interests that you are passionate about can be a powerful tool for relieving stress and improving your quality of life. Not only will it boost your well-being, but it can fuel your drive and ambition, keeping burnout at bay, and positioning you as an emotionally intelligent and sustainable employee. The aim of your answer should be to align yourself with their workplace culture, being like-minded, and relatable to the rest of their teams. Share hobbies and interests that showcase your personality and make you relatable. Paint a vibrant picture of who you are beyond the picture you've painted of yourself as a professional. If this sparks a meaningful connection it will help make you an even more memorable candidate.

When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity and that I've worked with diverse groups through most of my career, with people representing all walks of life, who have helped me grow as a person. This type of environment being what I am used to and familiar with, I'd say feel most comfortable, and happy, working among diverse groups."

As a recruiter for a world-renowned news source that delivers international news coverage that is ethical and unbiased in their reporting, they need to ensure you will accurately reflect their values and adhere to their professional conduct, which informs their decision-making. Part of their hiring practice is aiming to "anticipate and recognize potential biases and keep them from compromising our work." Therefore, your interviewer aims to assess your cultural competence, and whether you are capable of building relationships with, and collaborating with, their diverse teams, while embracing and emboldening their DEI efforts.

Here is a collection of the NY Times statements regarding their DEI efforts. "To ensure we cover the world fully and fairly, we are committed to fostering a diverse staff that reflects the society we report on. This means encouraging and embracing diverse viewpoints, seeking opportunities for collaboration, and approaching one another with curiosity and respect. We value one another, embrace differences, and seek input from people with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. At the same time, we must be mindful that our words can affect our colleagues' well-being and their work and also undermine the independence of our journalism. We treat everyone with fairness, empathy and respect, respond to constructive feedback that challenges our personal views, and approach interactions with each other from a place of grace."

Tell me about your educational pursuits.

"Well, my professor in college had a formative talk with me once. They were something of a mentor for me, and they once said that I had a keen eye for those who carried wisdom and knowledge and that I have a natural tendency to gravitate towards such individuals. They told me to sharpen that talent, gave me a list of colleagues whom I should network with, and that this path would lead me to a path of continual learning. And that is what I have tried to do since then. So, when I saw on The New York Times careers site how valued the mentoring is, and the educational offerings they have, this just fueled that mission even more. I look at The NY Times as a reliable source of information, which exercises wisdom in how they seek and share information. So, pursuing a position here, I would consider my next educational pursuit."

Go beyond the bullet points of your resume and share some of the more formative experiences from your educational journey. Touch on any experiences that ignited your curiosity and sparked your growth. Paint a picture of where you envision your education continuing, whether it's through traditional classrooms, online courses, certifications, or even self-directed pursuits. Share any recent lectures, seminars, or webinars you've attended or which are upcoming. If you're eager to explore some of the learning opportunities that the New York Times offers, share that as well.

If you are interested in moving up into a coveted journalism position with the NY Times, you might want to mention that in your interview, and the steps you hope to take to get there. As detailed on their website, "Most roles don't require a journalism background. A small number of roles work directly with the newsroom, and in those instances some prior experience with journalism may help. Nevertheless, a passion for journalism's mission of seeking the truth and helping people understand the world is a must for every role. We will consider you for any role we believe you would fit, but we'll always check with you to gauge your interest before we move forward. We offer $8,000 in annual tuition reimbursement and free access to online learning, as well as many in-house resources for employee training, career growth and skill development."

Tell me about the last time you were engaged in a debate with an uninformed individual with strong opinions.

"I honestly can't remember the last time I had a conversation with an uninformed individual which resulted in a debate. The last time I discussed with someone who shared their polarized political opinions with me, I simply listened to what they expressed, asked questions to ascertain why they felt disenfranchised, and talked about those issues instead. I shared my knowledge about the source of the problems plaguing their demographic, validated the complaints they had, which were valid, and changed the subject in a courteous manner whenever they shared incorrect information or distorted the facts. I wouldn't say I was offended by the fact that they shared what they did. Rather, I felt sad that they were fed misinformation from unreliable sources when they were obviously interested in the truth. They just didn't trust the truth initially when they heard it, because it wasn't offered to them in a way that resonated with their life. So I saw that as the problem, and that was my takeaway from the conversation."

Your interviewer needs to know whether you will conduct yourself in accordance with their values, especially when engaging with those who fall within their audience, or those who are not currently engaged audience members. For example, one of their values is Respect. "We help a global audience understand a vast and diverse world. To do that fully and fairly, we treat our subjects, our readers and each other with empathy and respect." So, in instances where you are engaged with someone whose views are polarized or in contradiction to your own, your interviewer needs to ensure you will conduct yourself in an empathetic and respectful manner.

"We're focusing on curious readers and lifelong learners. Faced with an increasingly untrustworthy digital ecosystem and the ubiquity of low-quality news and guidance, these curious readers and lifelong learners need information they can rely on to help them understand and engage with the world. Their unifying characteristic isn't politics, finances, geography or demographics. It's independent thinking, civic engagement and interest in other cultures, perspectives and experiences."

What is your weakness?

"I have gotten better at this, but I have trouble being selfish and asserting my needs. I am a go-getter at heart, but when it comes time to really getting up and out front, and seizing opportunities, I sometimes struggle with being loud enough. But, I have been working on this for years, and in the last year have been bold in voicing ideas for improvements in the workplace which were adopted and helped everybody. So, the more validated I feel, the bolder I become, but there's always room to grow even more."

How you answer this question may offer your interviewer a glimpse into how developed your emotional intelligence is. Primarily, they are curious whether you are aware of and take ownership of, your shortcomings or growth opportunities. Someone who fears admitting to their weaknesses hasn't yet taken ownership of them. Whereas someone who can admit to their growth opportunities is more likely to be focused on their development and is consistently striving to grow as a professional.

When answering this question, think of a growth opportunity you've been working on, choosing something that isn't a required skill for the role, or something that would present you as a liability. Also, determine whether this growth opportunity is something specific that the NY Times can help you with. "Our organization values developing our people. As a learning organization, we are committed to ensuring all employees have the time, space and resources necessary to continuously learn and grow. We understand the need to know what your next step is, so every role has a career ladder that outlines the criteria and qualifications that are considered in promotion."

What is the difference between marketing and advertising?

"Well, marketing and advertising is not my forte, but I would say that advertising is a part of the broader aspect of marketing. Marketing is customizing your messaging to your target audience, who are most likely to find value in what you have to offer. So you are anticipating their needs and wants, and speaking to them in a way they identify with and relate to. You are showing them that you hear them and value them, and create an atmosphere that is reciprocal. Whereas advertising is finding the right timing, channels, and sources to get that message in front of them."

Regardless of the role (marketing, advertising, etc.), questions about industry knowledge and company success gauge your commitment to both the industry and the company's goals. Your answers reveal your loyalty and understanding of the bigger picture. When you actively learn and engage with the business, pursuing your career advancement while benefiting the company, you prove your value as a stakeholder. Essentially, promoting the company's success strengthens your own professional worth.

The American Marketing Association has succinctly said that advertising is a component of marketing. "Marketing is the process of identifying customer needs and determining how best to meet those needs," and "advertising is the exercise of promoting a company and its products or services through paid channels." So study the terminology The New York Times uses on their site and try to incorporate some of their language for answering this question. Even if they end up using another industry question instead of this one, consider it good practice and a guide on how to navigate such as these.

"Great journalism has the power to make each reader's life richer and more fulfilling, and to make all of society stronger and more just. Marketing plays a key part in extending the journalistic legacy and mission of The Times into the future. We communicate the ways readers can experience our journalism, help them discover our reporting and products, and demonstrate the impact of our rigorous journalism, as we work to help people understand what makes The Times different and worth paying for. Curious readers and lifelong learners need information they can rely on to help them understand and engage with the world. In this environment, a direct, paid relationship with an independent provider of quality journalism will prove its value again and again. Our work has built trusted relationships with over four million subscribers, and we envision a future where every reader pays for quality journalism. We create purposeful marketing that demonstrates our mission, how we're leading the journalism industry and all the ways our readers can subscribe. Recent campaigns have highlighted how The Times amplified important voices, helped readers understand what goes into our reporting, and underscored our unwavering commitment to the truth. Our brand campaigns are just one way we inspire and engage our audience. We also market the breadth of our reporting, products and lifestyle through commerce, events and sales. Above all, we strive to be timely, straightforward and relevant in our marketing, to prove how much we value our readers and subscribers."

How often do you take work home with you?

"I take my work home with me only when it is necessary. In some positions I've held, I've worked from home nearly every day. In other roles, such as my current position, I work from home just a couple of times per month. I manage my time well and am singularly focused when at work. I manage my personal time, and my in-between time as well. I take this very seriously. The only time that I take my work home is when I am asked to rise to the call of duty. Overall, I take my work home maybe twice per month. If required, I would do it as often as needed. But in most circumstances, it hasn't been necessary. It's all about being diligent with your time."

Your interviewer is aiming to learn a few things from your answer to this question. They want to get a feeling about how well you manage your time in both your personal and professional life. For, if you are regularly taking your work home with you, this throws off your work-life balance. They are also curious whether you are making up for lost time at work due to not managing your personal issues well, due to addressing those needs during your work hours. How well an employee manages their time in both their personal and professional lives will impact both, throwing off their work-life balance, which contributes to stress and burnout, ultimately leading to attrition. So how you answer this question could offer clues to your work ethic and standard.

Based on the information online, working overtime for most of the NY Times employees does not seem to be a regular expectation. According to The New York Times Guild, which is the union of the New York Times, "Times workers have a 35-hour week with eligibility for overtime on the 36th hour and time-and-a-half on the 40th hour. Most union workers work more than 35 hours." Additionally, The NY Times Vice President of Marketing Operations is quoted on their site as saying, "The New York Times gives me the rare feeling of working at a mission-driving company and an opportunity to have a healthy work-life balance."

If The New York Times hired you today, what would you aim to accomplish first?

"I would first aim to learn everything I could to get oriented and get up to speed. No doubt it is a lot to take in. Not to mention, I would place a lot of focus on earning the trust of my coworkers and work hard to prove I am worthy of their trust. I'd build relationships, lean on others for their perspectives and insights, and shadow my mentor at every opportunity. No sense in trying to reinvent the wheel before learning how the rest of the car works. Once I have a firm grasp of how everything works and the avenues for suggesting innovations or improvements, I'll start asking the right questions to approach each opportunity with humility rather than presumption."

While any new hire is eager to make an immediate impact, it is more important for the builder of those teams for the new hire to prioritize building a strong foundation. So, your interviewer wants to know how you would go about dedicating the first 90 days to fostering relationships, actively learning, and understanding the "why" behind processes. Strategic immersion through developing a 90-day success plan empowers any new hire to make impactful contributions based on solid knowledge and integration.

Which of the required skills for this position do you have the most room for growth?

"I have an intermediate level of experience honing in on ad creation, but would love to say that I am an expert. When I saw this requirement in your job posting, I knew that I met that basic requirement, but I want to do better and to learn from the best. I am currently enrolled in an online course called 'Compelling Ads' and am excited about what it has to offer. I am confident that my experience and perspective will complement The New York Times, and prove valuable in increasing subscription levels, as I most capably did in my previous role."

Winning a position working for The New York Times is highly competitive, and your interviewer wants to hire the best of the best from their talent pool. Therefore, your interviewer wants to know more about your level of experience and whether you are confident in performing in this role. When answering this question, rather than suggesting that you require more training or hand-holding on any of the hard or soft skills required to perform in this position, instead consider those soft skills, or hard skills you are highly proficient in, but which you still have room to grow in before you can be considered a master at them. Paint a picture of your skill level and capability, and approach answering this question with ambition, and an attitude that there is always room to grow and further develop your skills.

As advised by one of The New York Times' recruiters, "We encourage applicants to thoroughly read the requirements for each job they consider. Be sure you're not applying to a position in which you have no comparable experience, and that you fully understand the job description. If you're sure your qualifications meet the criteria for the position, prepare a clear, well-written cover letter that explains why you are a unique asset to The Times and (if applicable) amass exemplary clips that show off your best work. Be selective about your desired positions and focus on quality over quantity, you have a better chance applying to one well-suited position than you do to several for which you are less qualified."

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the news media industry today?

"It is a turbulent time. Disinformation is rampant everywhere, with AI-generated content being circulated as real, resulting in viral content that cannot be relied upon as trustworthy information. As a result, there is a rampant distrust of sources of information, and people align themselves not with the truth but with what they want to hear or believe. These are a few of the biggest issues I feel we're facing today in the industry."

This question is designed to engage you in a deeper conversation and to get an idea of whether you have your finger on the pulse of your industry. How you answer stands to inform them of whether you're capable of maintaining boundaries, while reflecting the views of the NY Times.

Here are several statements on the challenges the news media faces today from the NY Times website. "We're living in an era of distrust. Confidence in the media, in particular, has declined and fractured. And the broader forces of surging polarization, declining trust and growing attacks on press freedom pose serious threats to independent journalism. The safety of journalists is threatened like never before. Each year seems to set grim new records in the number of journalists harassed, prosecuted or killed for doing their jobs. The risks are particularly high for local journalists who continue their work in places where they face retaliation from repressive leaders. And our own journalists, and their sources, also face increasingly difficult and dangerous conditions. That includes a digital environment where harassment is being used as a tactic to intimidate and silence independent journalism. Meanwhile, political leaders and activists are also attacking journalism to advance their agendas. Additionally, in the United States, judges and public officials are openly questioning whether longstanding First Amendment protections should be rethought and restricted. These attacks range from years of anti-press rhetoric to politically motivated libel suits, to efforts abroad that criminalize routine reporting and publishing. The corruption of the broader news and information ecosystem means that it's with good reason that people no longer believe much of what they encounter. And a more polarized public has retreated to echo chambers that cater to their personal beliefs and politics. There, they are rarely presented with information and perspectives that challenge their worldview. We will vigorously fight any attacks on the core press freedoms that make our journalistic work possible. Our mission is to seek the truth and help people understand the world."

Talk to me about your research skills and experience.

"I love research. That for me is my favorite part of the job. I am always asking questions and love learning. This is one of the reasons I feel I would be an asset to The New York Times because I have a solid reputation for finding reputable sources and am known for my highly developed research skills. In my previous positions, I have always been recognized for this. When you call my references, they will attest to this as well."

Your interviewer not only needs to ensure that your communication skills, both written and verbal, are developed, but that your research skills are as well. As the NY Times has stated, in a time where there is an "increasingly untrustworthy digital ecosystem and the ubiquity of low-quality news and guidance," it is more important than ever for them to ensure any information or resources their employees work off of, or rely upon, are trusted resources, and are factual and substantiated. In other words, your interviewer wants to know if your research skills are strong enough to earn you the reputation of being a trusted resource of information.

When answering this question, try to align your values and work ethic with theirs, while speaking from experience with sincere authenticity. For example, one of their values is Curiosity; "Open-minded inquiry is at the heart of our mission. In all our work, we believe in continually asking questions, seeking out different perspectives and searching for better ways of doing things." But saying you thrive on research, are ever curious, and only speak with authority when fully informed on a topic will hold no value if you haven't performed your research on everything pertaining to the NY Times in preparation for your interview. In this way, your actions will speak louder than your words.

What kind of work environment are you most successful in?

"I am most productive working among teams who take the time to get to know each other, to trust each other to be their genuine selves, and to contribute their best. I am a believer in promoting each other's strengths and being able to count on each other's strengths to help pull the rest of the team through. So, whether I am working on a solo project or a group project, on-premises or remotely, working with a cohesive team that knows who you are and relies on your strengths and for you to do what you do best is the ideal working environment for me."

Your answer to this question might inform your interviewer of whether you have spent time reflecting on the type of work conditions and environment you find most stimulating or which fosters your highest level of productivity and highest quality output. They are also interested in how your answer lines up with the work environment this position has to offer at the NY Times, and whether you have a firm grasp on whether this is indeed the right fit for you. In other words, your interviewer is curious how self-aware you are, how well you've prepared, and how realistic your expectations are.

The New York Times advertises that they are "committed to building a rewarding workplace for our employees and contributing to society through thoughtful business practices. Our team has a vast and diverse array of backgrounds, characteristics and skill sets, but we find harmony in our commitment to our mission and to creating a culture that's empathetic, open, inclusive and dedicated to continuous improvement in our craft." Additionally, while the bulk of their teams are based in their New York headquarters, some positions have the option of hybrid work, remote work, or being in one of their smaller domestic or international locations.

What do you feel are currently the biggest challenges news media outlets face with generating revenue?

"While print's relevance remains, its decline casts a shadow on its longevity. Meanwhile, tech giants like Google, Apple, and Meta curate news feeds based on algorithms, creating echo chambers instead of unfiltered information landscapes. This, coupled with ad blocker hurdles and tech giants' advertising dominance, makes traditional revenue models struggle, particularly for subscription-based outlets. As technology marches on, the news industry grapples with constant adaptation, leaving its future precariously poised."

Your interviewer is curious how in tune you are with the constant issues facing the industry pertaining to constantly having to reinvent ways to generate revenue. This is especially relevant to any position at The New York Times, which has entered a world where news media has transitioned away from print to be more immersed in online content, constantly reinventing how to generate revenue through subscriptions and advertising, limiting the number of free articles a month, outsmarting ad blockers, all while navigating the dominance of technology giants and historic shifts in how people find and engage with news.

"We are proud to have helped build the broader market for paid quality journalism. We've reached a milestone that once seemed unimaginable: more than 10 million paid subscriptions. This mission guided us through the existential challenges of recent years, helping us weather shifts from print to digital and upheaval in the advertising market. And it's what propelled us in building a digital-first, subscription-first business, centered on journalism worth paying for. More than 40 percent of our revenue still comes from print, a business that will continue to shrink, even as we expect to continue to produce a world-class newspaper for years to come. And advertising, which remains an important contributor to our success, will continue to be shaped by dynamics outside our control.We have multiple other revenue streams that are important to our underlying economics, the largest of which is advertising. As with subscriptions, these revenue streams rely on our strong brand, unique content and large, highly engaged audience. While we expect the advertising market to continue to evolve, our strategy has proven resilient. This strategy emphasizes direct relationships with highly engaged users; respects their experience on our platforms; and enables unique partnerships with brands. And while advertising will always be downstream of subscriptions, its growth and ability to continue to innovate is central to helping us achieve our goals."

Tell me about the last time you were dissatisfied with the quality or outcome of your work.

"We had a coworker come down with a virus and they had to self-quarantine, which required a project they'd started on being passed onto me. They had an entirely different process than I did, and the work they'd done really couldn't be passed on as progress, which required me to start the project over from scratch. The deadline was terribly tight, and I explained this to my superiors. They simply told me to do what I could, and the work was rushed as a result. I wasn't happy with the quality of it when I turned it in within an hour of the deadline, and I expressed this to my boss, saying it was below my standard. They expressed that they could work with it, and my supervisor expressed that my generating this work saved them in this situation, and there was no time to rework the components with which I was not happy. There was no way I could have cleaned it up within that hour, and they said the deadline was inflexible. So, I tried, did my best with the limitations and that was that. But it did leave a bad taste in my mouth."

This question is akin to asking about the last time you failed at something. What the interviewer wants to know is how you recover from your failures or setbacks, what you learn from them, and how you take advantage of each learning opportunity to improve upon your skills and further your development. In their goal to recruit the best and brightest from their talent pool, they want to know whether you take ownership of your own development, and whether your work standard is meeting the expectations of your job, or if your standard is going above and beyond.

One of the taglines for The New York Times is, "Breaking news that doesn't sacrifice quality for speed." They prioritize quality over quantity. Additionally, you'll find that this particular question relates to their core value, Excellence. "We aim to set the standard in everything we do. The pursuit of excellence takes different forms, but in every context, we strive to deliver the very best."

What are your salary expectations?

"I am currently making $80,000 per year with two bonus opportunities per year, and two performance reviews with pay increases a year, that come in on average between 3%-7%, depending on how well the company has performed. The benefits I currently receive are comparable to what this company has to offer, except the mutual fund contribution match is 50% of what I put in."

Your interviewer is curious about what you are hoping to earn and in what manner you are prepared to enter this negotiation. In addition to your experience, and how well you managed your interview, how capably you navigate this conversation will also attest to your professional worth. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example if you are comfortable doing so. This should include anything that reduces your cost of living, from projected income for the next year to retirement contributions, benefits, bonuses, and any other perks that hold value. If this makes you uncomfortable, do give as many indicators as you can. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise. After showcasing what you earn and your worth, see how they respond, and gauge your next move from there.

Most positions at The New York Times advertise the annual base pay range for the role. Also, aside from the benefits they advertise on their website, you can find The New York Times Newspaper Guild's PDF online, which details their benefits. "We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and their families, health and wellness programs, a 401(k) plan, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation, paid parental leave, and much more. We also offer a number of benefits and programs that help to create a welcoming, rewarding and supportive community."

Tell me about the last time you had to switch from a solo project to help your team meet their objectives.

"Well, I do work in a fairly high-paced environment and am often pulled in multiple directions. But this is one of my strengths. I am a habitual multi-tasker, and whether it is in my personal life or my professional sphere, I always seem to have multiple things going on at the same time. Fun fact, I actually do know how to juggle, and can do so for quite some time without dropping a single juggling club, or ball. My record is 12 minutes. Anyway, I can juggle multiple priorities at the same time without losing track of any single one of them. My coworkers know this about me, and never hesitate to lean on me for help, which I am always willing to do. My most recent example was a couple of days ago, but it isn't that interesting. But I will, if you like me to, and if I still haven't sufficiently answered your question."

Your interviewer is curious about what type of work you prefer, and where you fall on the scale from being an introvert, ambivert, to an extrovert. They are also curious about how adaptable you are and whether you're receptive to change. Lastly, how you answer may offer insights into your work ethic, and whether you are capable of multitasking without losing progress on any given task, successfully being able to track where you left off preventing rework, without losing track of the priorities you are managing at any given time.

Even though many of the positions require being able to work on more solitary and analytical projects, one of their core values is Collaboration. "It takes creativity and expertise from people in every part of the company to fulfill our mission. We are at our best when we work together and support each other." So regardless of your answer, you'll want to always express how you prioritize the needs of the team above all else.

The New York Times Interview Questions

Go Back

1. What would you consider your most significant achievement?
2. What questions do you have for me?
3. What does integrity mean to you?
4. What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years?
5. If you land this job, what’s in it for you? What would you like to get out of it beyond a paycheck? How will this help you grow?
6. Why are you interested in working with The NY Times?
7. Talk to me about your communication skills.
8. How would you go about expressing your views and personal opinions when discussing current events outside of work?
9. What does the truth mean to you?
10. What makes you the right fit for The NY Times?
11. Beyond our journalism, how else do you connect with The Times?
12. How would you approach a situation where you witnessed a coworker or colleague engaged in unethical conduct?
13. Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with someone you worked with.
14. Tell me about yourself.
15. Do you have any other creative pursuits or hobbies outside of work?
16. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?
17. Tell me about your educational pursuits.
18. Tell me about the last time you were engaged in a debate with an uninformed individual with strong opinions.
19. What is your weakness?
20. What is the difference between marketing and advertising?
21. How often do you take work home with you?
22. If The New York Times hired you today, what would you aim to accomplish first?
23. Which of the required skills for this position do you have the most room for growth?
24. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the news media industry today?
25. Talk to me about your research skills and experience.
26. What kind of work environment are you most successful in?
27. What do you feel are currently the biggest challenges news media outlets face with generating revenue?
28. Tell me about the last time you were dissatisfied with the quality or outcome of your work.
29. What are your salary expectations?
30. Tell me about the last time you had to switch from a solo project to help your team meet their objectives.

The New York Times Interview Questions

1. What would you consider your most significant achievement?

2. What questions do you have for me?

3. What does integrity mean to you?

4. What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years?

5. If you land this job, what’s in it for you? What would you like to get out of it beyond a paycheck? How will this help you grow?

6. Why are you interested in working with The NY Times?

7. Talk to me about your communication skills.

8. How would you go about expressing your views and personal opinions when discussing current events outside of work?

9. What does the truth mean to you?

10. What makes you the right fit for The NY Times?

11. Beyond our journalism, how else do you connect with The Times?

12. How would you approach a situation where you witnessed a coworker or colleague engaged in unethical conduct?

13. Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with someone you worked with.

14. Tell me about yourself.

15. Do you have any other creative pursuits or hobbies outside of work?

16. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?

17. Tell me about your educational pursuits.

18. Tell me about the last time you were engaged in a debate with an uninformed individual with strong opinions.

19. What is your weakness?

20. What is the difference between marketing and advertising?

21. How often do you take work home with you?

22. If The New York Times hired you today, what would you aim to accomplish first?

23. Which of the required skills for this position do you have the most room for growth?

24. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the news media industry today?

25. Talk to me about your research skills and experience.

26. What kind of work environment are you most successful in?

27. What do you feel are currently the biggest challenges news media outlets face with generating revenue?

28. Tell me about the last time you were dissatisfied with the quality or outcome of your work.

29. What are your salary expectations?

30. Tell me about the last time you had to switch from a solo project to help your team meet their objectives.