Top 27 Features Editor Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Preparing for a Features Editor interview can be daunting, but this blog post is here to help. We've compiled a comprehensive list of the most common interview questions for this role, complete with example answers and expert tips to help you respond effectively. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this guide will equip you with the insights needed to ace your interview.
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List of Features Editor Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you worked closely with a writer to develop a feature article? What challenges did you face?
How to Answer
- 1
Pick a specific article you collaborated on.
- 2
Explain your role in the development process.
- 3
Describe a particular challenge and how you overcame it.
- 4
Highlight the successful outcome of the article.
- 5
Emphasize teamwork and communication skills.
Example Answers
In my last role as an assistant editor, I worked with a freelancer on a piece about local food scenes. One challenge was the writer's initial outline being too broad. I suggested focusing on three specific restaurants instead, which made the article more compelling. We kept in touch regularly, and the article was well-received.
Tell me about a situation where you had to lead a team of writers on a tight deadline. How did you manage it?
How to Answer
- 1
Describe the project and its urgency clearly.
- 2
Outline your leadership approach and communication methods.
- 3
Mention specific tasks you delegated to team members.
- 4
Highlight any tools or strategies used to track progress.
- 5
Explain the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In my previous role, we had a last-minute project to produce an extensive feature for our magazine. The deadline was just three days away. I organized a quick meeting, assigning specific sections of the feature to each writer based on their strengths. I checked in frequently using a project management tool to monitor progress and provided feedback promptly. We met the deadline with a cohesive final product, and I learned the importance of clear communication under pressure.
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Describe a conflict you had with a contributor. How did you resolve it?
How to Answer
- 1
Start by briefly explaining the nature of the conflict.
- 2
Focus on your approach to communication with the contributor.
- 3
Emphasize listening to their perspective and finding common ground.
- 4
Describe the resolution and any compromises made.
- 5
Conclude with what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In an editorial project, a contributor wanted to focus on a niche angle I felt wouldn't resonate with our audience. I arranged a meeting to express my concerns and listened to their viewpoint. We found a compromise by incorporating their angle but framed it to appeal to a broader audience. This strengthened our collaboration and taught me the value of flexibility.
Can you provide an example of a feature idea you proposed that was initially rejected? How did you handle the feedback?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a relevant and specific example from your experience
- 2
Describe the idea clearly and why you thought it was valuable
- 3
Explain the feedback you received in a constructive way
- 4
Detail how you responded to the feedback and what actions you took
- 5
Reflect on what you learned from the experience and how it improved your skills
Example Answers
I proposed a feature on sustainable fashion, believing it would resonate with our audience. The idea was rejected due to timing and a focus shift. I took the feedback positively, did further research to understand the editorial direction, and suggested similar content later that aligned better with our goals.
Tell me about a time when you missed a deadline. What happened and how did you address it?
How to Answer
- 1
Be honest about the situation and take responsibility.
- 2
Explain the reasons for the missed deadline clearly but avoid making excuses.
- 3
Focus on what you learned from the experience.
- 4
Discuss the steps you took to rectify the situation or prevent it in the future.
- 5
Emphasize your commitment to meeting deadlines moving forward.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I missed a deadline for a feature article because I overestimated the time needed for interviews. I immediately informed my editor, presented a revised timeline, and worked extra hours to complete it. I learned to better assess my workload in the future.
What is the most innovative feature article you have worked on, and what made it special?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific article that showcases innovation.
- 2
Highlight unique storytelling techniques or formats used.
- 3
Explain the impact or reception of the article.
- 4
Emphasize any challenges you faced in creating it.
- 5
Convey your personal role and contributions within the project.
Example Answers
I wrote an interactive feature on urban wildlife that integrated multimedia elements, engaging readers through videos and soundscapes. It received exceptional feedback for immersing readers in a unique experience.
What do you consider a successful feature article? Provide an example from your experience.
How to Answer
- 1
Define success in feature articles as engaging and informative content.
- 2
Mention specific elements like storytelling, research, and reader impact.
- 3
Use a personal example that illustrates these elements.
- 4
Discuss the audience and how the article met their needs.
- 5
Highlight any measurable outcomes, such as readership or feedback.
Example Answers
A successful feature article captivates the reader with a strong narrative and well-researched facts. For example, I wrote a piece on urban gardening that intertwined personal stories with practical tips. The readers responded positively, leading to increased online engagement and shares.
Have you ever mentored a junior writer? What challenges did you face, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific instance to share your experience.
- 2
Identify one or two key challenges you faced.
- 3
Explain how you addressed those challenges directly.
- 4
Mention the positive outcome for the junior writer.
- 5
Reflect on what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
I mentored a junior writer who struggled with feedback. The challenge was helping them understand and apply constructive criticism. I provided detailed notes and examples, which helped them improve. As a result, their writing quality significantly increased and they gained more confidence.
Don't Just Read Features Editor Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Features Editor interview answers in real-time.
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Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Technical Interview Questions
What tools or methods do you use for conducting research for feature articles?
How to Answer
- 1
Use a combination of primary and secondary research methods
- 2
Leverage online databases and journalistic resources
- 3
Conduct interviews with subject matter experts
- 4
Utilize social media for trends and audience insights
- 5
Organize findings using software like Evernote or Google Docs
Example Answers
I typically start by accessing online databases and reputable journalism websites for existing literature. Then, I conduct interviews with experts to gather firsthand insights. I also follow trending topics on social media to gauge audience interests and incorporate findings into my articles.
How do you incorporate SEO best practices into your feature articles?
How to Answer
- 1
Conduct keyword research to identify relevant terms for the article's topic
- 2
Use keywords naturally in the headline, subheadings, and throughout the text
- 3
Optimize meta descriptions and alt text for images with targeted keywords
- 4
Ensure the article is structured with clear headings and subheadings for easy navigation
- 5
Incorporate internal and external links to enhance content relevance and authority.
Example Answers
I start by researching keywords related to the article topic, ensuring they fit naturally into the text. Then, I include those keywords in the title and headings. I also write concise meta descriptions and use alt tags for images with relevant keywords.
Don't Just Read Features Editor Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Features Editor interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
What content management systems (CMS) are you familiar with, and how have you used them in your editing process?
How to Answer
- 1
List specific CMS you have used, such as WordPress or Drupal.
- 2
Mention the key features of the CMS that help with editing.
- 3
Describe a specific project or experience using the CMS.
- 4
Highlight how you collaborated with other team members using the CMS.
- 5
Emphasize any improvements you made or challenges you overcame with the CMS.
Example Answers
I have experience with WordPress and Joomla. In my last role, I used WordPress to manage and edit articles, utilizing plugins for SEO optimization. On a project, I coordinated with writers through user roles and contributed to creating a more streamlined editorial process.
How do you measure the success of a feature piece you’ve edited?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific metrics like readership and engagement rates.
- 2
Consider qualitative feedback from readers and peers.
- 3
Look at social media shares and interactions as indicators.
- 4
Evaluate how well the piece achieves its original purpose.
- 5
Track any follow-up stories or conversations sparked by the piece.
Example Answers
I measure success through a combination of metrics. For instance, I look at readership numbers and engagement rates. If the piece garners positive feedback from both readers and critics, that's a strong indicator of success.
What is your approach to fact-checking in feature articles?
How to Answer
- 1
Define a clear fact-checking process before starting the article.
- 2
Cross-verify facts with multiple credible sources.
- 3
Document all sources and maintain a fact-checking checklist.
- 4
Use a team review for critical facts to ensure accuracy.
- 5
Stay updated on current information relevant to your topic.
Example Answers
My approach to fact-checking starts with a clear process where I outline the key facts that need verification. I cross-check these facts against multiple reputable sources and keep a checklist to document each one. Additionally, I often collaborate with colleagues for a second review of crucial information.
How do you ensure that the articles you edit adhere to the publication's style guide?
How to Answer
- 1
Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the publication's style guide before editing.
- 2
Use a checklist based on the style guide to review articles consistently.
- 3
Provide clear feedback to writers about any deviations from the style guide.
- 4
Stay updated on any changes to the style guide and communicate these to the team.
- 5
Encourage adherence to the style guide in writing training or workshops.
Example Answers
I always start by reviewing the publication's style guide to ensure I understand its nuances. During the editing process, I use a checklist derived from the guide, which helps me maintain consistency. When I find issues, I clearly communicate these to the writer, providing examples from the guide.
How do you keep up with trends in feature writing and journalism?
How to Answer
- 1
Follow leading publications and journalists on social media
- 2
Subscribe to newsletters from prominent media outlets
- 3
Attend industry conferences and workshops regularly
- 4
Participate in online forums and groups focused on journalism
- 5
Read books and articles about the evolution of feature writing
Example Answers
I follow key journalists and trendsetters on Twitter and LinkedIn, and I religiously read their posts and articles to stay updated. Additionally, I subscribe to the Nieman Lab newsletter to get insights into journalism trends.
What formatting tools do you typically use to prepare articles for publication?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific tools you've used like InDesign, Word, or online platforms such as WordPress.
- 2
Mention any style guides you follow for formatting consistency.
- 3
Discuss collaboration tools if applicable, like Google Docs or editorial calendars.
- 4
Highlight your understanding of different formats like print vs. digital and how they affect layout.
- 5
Emphasize your ability to adapt formatting based on the publication's requirements.
Example Answers
I primarily use Adobe InDesign for print articles, and for digital content, I often utilize WordPress. I ensure that articles follow the AP style guide for consistency.
How do you ensure that each feature aligns with the publication's brand voice?
How to Answer
- 1
Study the publication's past features for tone and style.
- 2
Create a style guide based on the brand voice for reference.
- 3
Engage with the editorial team to understand key messaging.
- 4
Adapt content to reflect the audience's preferences and interests.
- 5
Solicit feedback on drafts to ensure voice consistency.
Example Answers
I analyze past features to get a clear sense of the tone and style the publication uses. I also refer to a style guide I create, which helps maintain consistency across my writing.
Situational Interview Questions
Imagine you are given a feature piece that requires extensive revisions and is due in a few hours. What steps do you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the main themes and arguments of the piece quickly
- 2
Identify sections needing the most revision—prioritize major changes over minor ones
- 3
Outline the structure you want the revised piece to follow
- 4
Edit for clarity, style, and voice, ensuring it aligns with the publication's standards
- 5
Set a timer for each section to keep yourself focused and on track
Example Answers
I would first read through the piece to understand its main arguments. Then, I'd identify which sections require the most work, focusing on the core message. I would outline a revised structure, and start editing for clarity while keeping an eye on the clock to ensure I complete the revisions promptly.
If you notice that one of your writers is consistently underperforming, how would you handle this situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Schedule a one-on-one meeting with the writer to discuss their performance.
- 2
Ask open-ended questions to understand any challenges they may be facing.
- 3
Provide specific examples of where their work is lacking and offer constructive feedback.
- 4
Set clear, achievable goals for improvement and agree on a timeline.
- 5
Follow up regularly to monitor progress and provide ongoing support.
Example Answers
I would first arrange a private meeting with the writer to discuss my concerns. I would come prepared to listen to any challenges they might be facing, provide specific examples of where they need improvement, and together we would set some achievable goals that I would follow up on during subsequent meetings.
Don't Just Read Features Editor Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Features Editor interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
You discover that an article has inaccuracies after it has been published. What do you do next?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the nature of the inaccuracies and their impact on the article.
- 2
Notify your editorial team immediately, providing details of the inaccuracies.
- 3
Coordinate with the author to develop corrections or clarifications.
- 4
Publish a correction notice if necessary, ensuring transparency.
- 5
Review existing processes to prevent future inaccuracies.
Example Answers
First, I would evaluate how serious the inaccuracies are and whether they mislead readers. Then, I would inform my editorial team and discuss the best course of action. If a correction is needed, I'd work with the author to craft an appropriate update and publish it, making sure our readers are informed.
How would you decide which topics to cover to engage your audience this quarter?
How to Answer
- 1
Analyze current audience engagement metrics to identify popular themes.
- 2
Conduct surveys or polls to gather direct feedback from the audience.
- 3
Stay updated on industry trends and news that may interest your audience.
- 4
Collaborate with the editorial team to brainstorm fresh topic ideas.
- 5
Create a content calendar to plan and organize topics for the quarter.
Example Answers
I would start by reviewing our latest audience engagement metrics to see which topics resonated most. Then, I would use surveys to ask our readers directly what they want to know. Combining this data with current trends would help ensure our topics are relevant and exciting.
If you were tasked with improving the feature section of the publication, what strategies would you implement?
How to Answer
- 1
Analyze the current feature content for strengths and weaknesses.
- 2
Engage with the audience to understand their interests and preferences.
- 3
Introduce diverse voices and perspectives in feature stories.
- 4
Utilize data analytics to track performance and engagement of feature articles.
- 5
Experiment with multimedia elements to enhance storytelling.
Example Answers
I would start by assessing our current feature articles to identify what resonates with our audience and what falls flat. Then, I'd conduct surveys or focus groups to gather reader feedback and preferences directly.
How would you approach collaborating with the marketing team to promote feature articles?
How to Answer
- 1
Discuss regular meetings to align on goals and strategies
- 2
Suggest shared content calendars to plan promotions together
- 3
Propose joint brainstorming sessions for promotional angles
- 4
Emphasize the importance of aligning messaging and tone
- 5
Mention using analytics to measure effectiveness and adjust strategies
Example Answers
I would set up regular meetings with the marketing team to ensure we align on our goals. We could use a shared content calendar to coordinate our efforts and plan promotions in advance.
If a writer disagrees with your edits, how would you handle the discussion?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen actively to the writer's concerns without interrupting.
- 2
Acknowledge their perspective and validate their feelings.
- 3
Explain the reasoning behind your edits clearly and respectfully.
- 4
Discuss potential compromises or alternatives together.
- 5
Aim for a collaborative solution that satisfies both parties.
Example Answers
I would first listen to the writer's objections to my edits and ensure I understand their point of view. Then I'd explain my reasoning and suggest alternatives that might incorporate their ideas while maintaining the piece's integrity.
If you have multiple feature articles to edit with the same deadline, how do you prioritize your work?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the importance of each article based on audience impact.
- 2
Consider the complexity of edits required for each piece.
- 3
Identify any articles with external dependencies or collaborators.
- 4
Use a timeline to allocate time blocks for editing each article.
- 5
Communicate with writers about any necessary adjustments or support.
Example Answers
I prioritize by evaluating which articles will have the greatest impact on our audience. Then I look at how much editing each one needs. For instance, if one article is nearly finished but another requires significant rewrites, I'll tackle the nearly-finished one first.
Features Editor Position Details
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Ace Your Next Interview!
Practice with AI feedback & get hired faster
Personalized feedback
Used by hundreds of successful candidates