30 Media Interview Questions & Answers
1. In your opinion, what is the most influential form of media today?
How to Answer
Have a meaningful conversation with the interviewer on media influence. With so many forms of media out there, which do you feel is the most influential at the moment? Be sure to back your answer.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the most influential form of media today is social media and online content. As a whole, the human race wants fast, easy to consume, entertainment news. Our rate of consumption is unprecedented, and the fastest way to access it is through online content sharing."
2nd Answer Example
"There are many important forms of media today - so many, in fact, that people seem to be getting overwhelmed. I would still say that traditional media, in the form of television and the daily news, is at the top when it comes to the number of people influenced and the quality of the content being distributed."
2. Of all the media solutions we provide at Company ABC, which do you know the best?
How to Answer
It is imperative to thoroughly research Company ABC before you go in for your interview. Be sure to look carefully through the 'About Us' section on their website as well as anything to do with their clients or recent projects.
1st Answer Example
"I researched Company ABC a lot before coming here today and see that you recently won an award for being the top (specific specialty) in the industry. This area is one that I specialize in as well. Because of my previous achievements in (specific specialty), I feel that I could make an impact right away."
2nd Answer Example
"I would say that, without a doubt, visual design is my strongest area of expertise when it comes to media solutions. I have many other areas of strength, such as A and B; however, this is my stand-out skill."
3. Walk me through your experience in the television and/or radio industry.
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your resume. Highlight any particular experience you may have with television and radio. Be concise and be sure to avoid speaking poorly of any previous employers and experiences.
1st Answer Example
"I began my career in media in a volunteer role with my local television station. From there, I started to assist with writing broadcast scripts. I left that role to attend university and recently graduated with my communications degree. I am now looking for my first opportunity in media, and very much look forward to seeing my career grow with Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been working in the television and radio industry for the past eight years. After graduating with my degree in Media Studies and Mass Media, I joined our local radio station as a content writer. From there, I took on a role as a junior editor; then a team leader for a small team of editors. At this point, I am now looking for an opportunity to grow which is why I applied for this role with Company ABC. I love this industry and look forward to continuing my success here."
4. What are your 3 favorite forms of entertainment?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the types of media and entertainment that you enjoy consuming on a regular basis. Talk to the interviewer about your favorite forms of entertainment and be sure to include why they are your favorite.
1st Answer Example
"My favorite forms of entertainment have always been reality tv, podcasts, and celebrity-based news. I have always wanted to become a gossip columnist and find that these forms of entertainment spark my creativity and keep me informed on trends in the media."
2nd Answer Example
"There are so many great forms of entertainment media available to us. I am more traditional and would say that my favorite forms still include print media, documentaries, and podcasts that focus on economics and business."
5. If Company ABC hired you today, what would you accomplish first?
How to Answer
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.
1st Answer Example
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"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."
6. What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years with Company ABC?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are interested in forging a long-term career with them by discussing the career path you foresee if hired. What are your career goals and how do you hope to achieve them, with Company ABC?
1st Answer Example
"In the next few years I would like to move into a more serious leadership function. In my current company, there is little room for growth which is why I feel that working for Company ABC would fit into my long-term career goals. I want to work for you and grow into a leadership role with your organization."
2nd Answer Example
"5 years from now, I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own. I feel like I am progressing at a rate that will make this a possibility."
7. The media industry is fast moving and ever-changing. How do you stay on top of changes and trends?
How to Answer
With the fast pace of online content, all forms of media must move quickly to be the first and most reliable source of news and entertainment. Assure the interviewer that you can remain on top of trends in your industry.
1st Answer Example
"Trends and stories are constantly changing, so my favorite sources for industry-related content comes from a variety of online sources such as A, B, and C. These sources are consistent and reliable."
2nd Answer Example
"I think it's important to stay on top of trends on a regular basis, so I do subscribe to a few podcasts, and I also have industry related google alerts set up. Which are your favorite ways to stay on top of media-related trends and changes?"
8. What are your thoughts on the way media is rated for the public (IE: PG, 14A, NR, Mature)?
How to Answer
Media ratings have changed a great deal over the years, and the interviewer would like to know your thoughts on this. Be sure to keep your answer productive and thoughtful.
1st Answer Example
"Media ratings have most definitely loosened over the years. What used to be rated 14A is now often classified as PG. I feel this is because our kids and youth are exposed to so much more now than we ever were as kids and we are becoming desensitized. I do wish that some guidelines would remain tighter, especially surrounding violent content."
2nd Answer Example
"Because I am newer to this industry, I would need to conduct more analysis on media ratings before I could give you a fully researched answer. With that said, I feel that the majority of media I am exposed to seem to be rated adequately, and clearly. I think it's important for viewers and consumers to easily see ratings before making their decision on whether or not it's appropriate for them."
9. In your opinion, what is the future of local radio?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your opinion on local radio, and it's future. Remain positive and avoid bashing any forms of media or sounding like a doomsayer.
1st Answer Example
"Local radio has changed a great deal over the years, especially with the launch of services such as Sirius Radio and other satellite services. It certainly hasn't made it obsolete as many predicted. In fact, I think the introduction of competition can be a good thing. It forces local radio to become more progressive and engaging. I believe this trend will continue for many years to come."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read an article that radio may be obsolete in the nearer future because of its inability to connect with Generation Z. This generation makes up nearly half of all consumers in the United States. So, the future of radio may be grim if we cannot find a way to make connections with the modern consumer."
10. How do you think that online media has changed traditional print and broadcast media approaches in the past 10 years?
How to Answer
This industry is ever-changing, and all types of media outlets have been scrambling to keep up with the introduction of online media. Talk to the interviewer about your insights when it comes to the changes you have witnessed in traditional media since the introduction of online media.
1st Answer Example
"Online media has changed the way we digest information. Most people look for content online because it's fast and we can read the opinions of others which helps us to form our own. This content is both convenient and dangerous at times as it doesn't necessarily promote free thought. I think that traditional print media has become lighter and more entertainment-driven because of this."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that online media has rapidly increased the amount of content that we feel we need in a day. Where it used to be that our parents would watch or read the local news once every morning or evening, we are now constantly logging in, and looking for updates on stories that may not even directly affect us. This response means that newspapers are often struggling with sales, and we have global 24/7 news channels."
11. Market research is important to Company ABC in order to help us understand where to take our business in the years to come. Rate your research skills from 1-10. Do you enjoy conducting research?
How to Answer
In the media industry, research and reliable sources are everything. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of conducting robust and dependable research. Draw on your positive references when answering this question.
1st Answer Example
"One of the reasons why I would love to work for Company ABC is because of your solid reputation for reputable sources and research. In my previous positions, I have always been recognized for my great research skills. When you call my references, they will attest to this as well. There is always room for improvement so I would rate myself as an 8.5 out of 10 for research capabilities."
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to research capabilities, I am most definitely a 10/10. An eleven even, if that is allowed! I love researching a large range of products and am very data and analytically minded."
12. Do you prefer to be behind the scenes or in the limelight?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your personality so they can place you in the correct job function. Would you consider yourself an entertainer or more of a worker-bee? Perhaps you are a blend of both!
1st Answer Example
"I can change from enjoying the limelight to being behind the scenes, simply depending on the type of project. I would say that I am a healthy balance of both; however, I do find myself in the limelight a bit more often. This is because I naturally take on leadership roles and am skilled when it comes to public speaking."
2nd Answer Example
"My instinct is to be behind the scenes whenever possible. Although I am very outgoing, I often prefer to do the background work, like research and data analysis, and then pass my findings along to someone who is more of a natural in the limelight."
13. What is your favorite publication, and why?
How to Answer
Trick question! If you are interviewing with a company involved in the publication, you will certainly want to mention that you are a fan of their work. No need to say they are your favorite (if they aren't) but at least give them a nod.
1st Answer Example
"I read a wide array of publications and yours, XYZ Magazine, is always in the mix. I especially appreciate your approach on political pieces."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a range of publications that I rotate. Your publication, ABC, is always in the mix. Among my favorites are also X, Y, and Z. I would love to learn about other options as well. May I ask what your favorite publications are?"
14. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you should be paid based on tenure, or results? Discuss this with the interviewer and back your answer with an example, if possible.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that employees should be paid, and rewarded, based on their performance. A new employee would find motivation through being rewarded for performance, and it encourages a healthy competition with tenured employees."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel both performance and experience should be equally rewarded and weighted."
15. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
16. Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.
How to Answer
Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make a great employee. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.
If you do have volunteer experience: "For the past eight months, I have volunteered every Wednesday evening at our local animal shelter. I will help with grooming the animals, feeding them, and walking them. It's been an enjoyable experience and rewarding at the same time."
1st Answer Example
"For the past eight months, I have volunteered every Wednesday evening at our local animal shelter. I will help with grooming the animals, feeding them, and walking them. It's been an enjoyable experience and rewarding at the same time."
2nd Answer Example
If you do not have volunteer experience: "I have not formally volunteered in these most recent years, however; I spend a lot of time helping my sister who is a single mom. I will babysit on weekends, cook dinners for her and drive the kids to appointments when necessary. I feel that it is imperative to take care of the needs of the family."
17. What accomplishment do you believe was the most difficult for you to achieve?
How to Answer
Being able to face a challenge or stressful situation, and still gain some accomplishment, in the end, is very satisfying. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to come out on top despite being faced with an obstacle.
1st Answer Example
"In my career, so far, I feel that the most difficult accomplishment for me to achieve were the three back-to-back promotions in my current company. Because promotions are granted based on results, I had to put in a lot of overtime hours, and hustle, to get there."
2nd Answer Example
"The most challenging accomplishment I achieved was the fluid communication created in my current team. When I first started, communication was so poor that it greatly affected the company's profits. By creating this smooth communication, we were able to increase sales by 155% in the first year."
18. Tell me about a time when you, or a group that you were a part of, were in danger of missing a deadline. What did you do?
How to Answer
This question is designed to learn how well you work under pressure. When choosing an example to share with the interviewer, avoid selecting a time that you were in danger of missing the deadline because of poor planning on your part such as procrastination. Instead, choose a situation that was out of your control.
First, start by giving the interviewer an overview of the situation, explaining how much time you had to complete the assignment and why you were in danger of missing the deadline.
Next, tell the interviewer that you realized how urgent the situation was, and instead of getting worked up about it, you came up with a game plan to conquer the assignment by the deadline.
Lastly, explain how you made your plan of attack, pulled in additional people to help if necessary, and met your deadline.
1st Answer Example
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2nd Answer Example
"My team and I recently were under a deadline to complete a global employee satisfaction survey. Our deadline was set to execute the project from start to finish within six weeks. During weekly status updates, we came across two roadblocks that were going to prevent us from accomplishing this. Global customs would take six weeks to ship the surveys in and out of the facility. We came up with a solution to email the surveys and still include the coding that would catalog the results by location and department, while still meeting our deadline. It was our transparency in communications and collaborative work environment that helped us meet a deadline to deliver the results to the leadership team and organizational wide."
19. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with delays in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
2nd Answer Example
"I expect setbacks in this industry and have become accustomed to them happening. Call it par for the course with working in media. When I encounter a huge setback I will take a few moments to assess the damage, then make a plan with my team on how to proceed."
20. The media industry is all about communication. At Company ABC, strong communication is at the forefront of what we do. How would you describe your communication skills? Rate your communication skills from 1-10.
How to Answer
In any media related position, you must be a clear and concise communicator. Talk to the interviewer about your communication style and how you feel it will work with the communication standards set by Company ABC.
1st Answer Example
"I would rate my communication skills as a 9 out of 10 because they are exceptional; yet, there is always room for improvement. I would describe my communication style as thorough, upbeat, yet concise. I firmly believe that my communication skills will meet the standards you have set at Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
21. Tell me about your experiences giving presentations in front of large groups.
How to Answer
Public speaking can be intimidating so assure the interviewer that you are capable of communicating well in front of large groups. Have you taken any courses or training in public speaking? Perhaps you have so much experience that it comes second nature. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of giving presentations.
1st Answer Example
"In my past two roles I have been responsible for regularly presenting to my team of 43 staff as well as to our entire warehouse team of over 200. I have taken a couple of Toastmasters sessions which helped a great deal. I am a confident public speaker."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have a lot of experience in presenting to large groups. Perhaps, 4-6 people at most. I am a confident public speaker and am sure that I could present in front of many people."
22. Tell me about an error or mistake you made because of a breakdown in communication from you or one of your team members.
How to Answer
On occasion, mistakes will happen, and communication will be broken. Talk to the interviewer about a time that this occurred in the workplace. How did you resolve the situation?
1st Answer Example
"I recall one instance where I misread an email from one of my subordinates. The punctuation was incorrect, and I read it in in a dire tone rather than in a positive one, as it was intended. After a tense conversation, the employee clarified her intention, and it seems I was mistaken. She and I agreed to exercise verbal communication on a regular basis to avoid a similar situation from happening again."
2nd Answer Example
"We recently had a missing link in communications to one of our vendors, who we signed on to provide a large service. They were not aware of a change in the agreement which cost the company wasted time, resources and money. We were able to identify the breakdown in communication and change the process to ensure it does not happen again."
23. What do you know about our company culture?
How to Answer
Company culture and fit is a crucial factor when considering a career move. Assure the interviewer that you have put thought, research, and consideration of how the company culture will work for you.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched your company through your social media channels and on glassdoor.com. Your employees have great things to say, and overall it seems that you have fun while you work. I am looking forward to joining an organization, like yours, that is upbeat and thoughtful with an eye on helping the community at the same time."
2nd Answer Example
"I read many positive reviews online about your organization and company culture. You offer great incentives to keep people motivated, and it seems to be the type of fast-paced environment that values innovation and performance."
24. What work situations excite and motivate you?
How to Answer
It is essential, for your success, that the hiring manager knows how to keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive.
1st Answer Example
"I am most motivated, on the job, when tasks are organized, and the vibe is positive. I value strong teamwork and good leadership."
2nd Answer Example
"I love to feel like I am making a difference in the workplace so what excites me most is the idea that I could train and mentor junior employees while growing my leadership capabilities at the same time."
25. How would you describe your relationship with your customers or clients?
How to Answer
Do you value your client and customer relationships? How do you nurture them to ensure that they are happy and continue to come back? Talk to the interviewer about your strategy for building strong customer and client relationships.
1st Answer Example
"My customer and client relationships are best described as open and honest. I believe that the more upfront and transparent you are with your clients, the more likely they are to return. I most definitely value my clients and am sure to nurture those relationships as much as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"My relationships with my customers are the most important part of my job. If I could describe my relationships with them, I would say they are transparent, professional, yet lighthearted when necessary."
26. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
How to Answer
A genuinely creative minded person will have outside activities aside from what's happening in the workplace. Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity.
1st Answer Example
"Outside of work I like to attend dance classes and I also attend the odd paint and sip wine nights at a local wine shop. I also enjoy reading as a way of nurturing my creative side."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very involved in volunteering, outside of work. I spend most of my time with my volunteer commitments and the rest of my time is spent working out or reading."
27. How often do you take work home with you?
How to Answer
The majority of people will work overtime hours or take work home with them on occasion. Talk to the interviewer about how frequently you take your work home.
1st Answer Example
"I make sure to utilize my work hours very efficiently, so the only time that I take my work home is when there is an extremely stringent deadline. I would say that, overall, I take my work home maybe twice per month. It's all about being diligent with your time in the office!"
2nd Answer Example
"I take my work home with me whenever it is necessary. Some positions I have held, I work from home nearly every day. Other roles, such as my current position, I work from home just a couple of times per month."
28. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
2nd Answer Example
"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact."
29. What is your greatest weakness?
How to Answer
Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. You can be candid in your answer; recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
1st Answer Example
"I believe I could improve on some technical skills including Excel and PowerPoint. Currently I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled myself in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"
2nd Answer Example
"This is super cliche, but it's also true. I am not good at delegating to others. When I become submerged in a project, I don't like to give away any of the control. While this can be good, it can also definitely inhibit the outcome of the project and my growth as a team player and individual. I am currently working on this, as I know it is a deficit."
30. Why do you think you will be successful in this role?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.
1st Answer Example
"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I am prepared with experience, equipped with passion and opportunistic about making a valuable contribution to your organization's work through this role."