30 HarperCollins Interview Questions & Answers (2024)

How to Answer

In the media and publishing industry, research and reliable sources are everything. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of conducting robust and dependable research. Draw on your positive references when answering this question.

1st Answer Example

"One of the reasons why I would love to work for HarperCollins is because of your solid reputation for reputable sources and research. In my previous positions, I have always earned recognition for my great research skills. When you call my references, they will attest to this as well. There is always room for improvement, so for that reason, I would rate myself as an 8.5 out of 10 for research capabilities."

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."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"That's an interesting question for me because I have never considered myself creative in the traditional sense of being artistic. I am, however, a very creative individual when it comes to new ways to motivate my team."

2nd Answer Example

"I am creative in the sense that I am great at seeing all sides of a negotiation, I can use creativity to close a deal, and I am a solid writer. With that said, give me a paintbrush, and I will have no idea what to do. I suppose creativity comes in all forms!"

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a team leaderboard, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."

2nd Answer Example

"I am motivated by skills advancement opportunities. My previous employer put me through a technical writing course as well as two advanced Excel workshops. That was motivating to me."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"For me, as a manager, the most important factor in accepting a new role is the health of the company, and it's employees. I am looking to take on a positive-minded team. I like to work with enthusiastic people that I can motivate. With that said, I am also looking for a competitive financial offer."

2nd Answer Example

"At this point in my career, I am looking to join a publisher that will allow me to work on more significant projects and with more robust tech and applications. Compensation is a driver, of course, but not the only one."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I know that HarperCollins established over 30 years ago and you have been a part of many exciting mergers and acquisitions since then. There are growth opportunities available here, and you put a lot of energy into creating a corporate culture that gives back. For instance, I recently read that HarperCollins actively supports local and national organizations to foster a universal passion for reading. Whether it's through supporting literacy-based organizations, providing volunteers, donating books, or creating unique collaborations that benefit readers, you find ways to partner hand-in-hand with communities."

2nd Answer Example

"I greatly appreciate HarperCollins' literacy-focused partnerships. Your organization genuinely cares about boosting literacy rates across the world. I was especially interested in finding that HarperCollins has meaningful partnerships with First Book, Change for Kids, and World Book Nigh. I would be proud to work for such a socially conscious organization."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"In the first 90 days, I plan to establish and manage a growth strategy for Facebook, Instagram and new platforms for your magazine, Harper's Magazine. I will establish and manage a community engagement strategy for Facebook, Instagram, and new platforms for the brand. In addition to this, I plan to establish a vision and creative growth strategy for each brand's already robust newsletter program, in collaboration with the HarperCollins newsletter team. It's important that I help maintain a consistent voice for each brand on social platforms."

2nd Answer Example

"In the first 90 days, I plan to fast-track my training by spending time on the weekends and evenings studying hard. I believe in doing everything faster and better so you will see results and accomplishments from me very quickly. I want to be on a full retail sales budget in the first 60 days as opposed to your typical 90 days."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"In the next few years I would like to move into a more serious leadership function, such as the Executive Managing Editor opening currently posted. In my current company, there is little room for growth, which is why I feel that working for HarperCollins would fit into my long-term career goals. I want to work for you and grow into a leadership role with your organization."

2nd Answer Example

"5 years from now, I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own. Your Associate Product Manager position caught my eye. I feel like I am progressing at a rate that will make this a possibility, and am committing to learn more about metadata optimization, acquisition strategy, and retail strategy to help make that happen in my career."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"A content marketing strategy always starts with data about the audience to ensure the content is appropriately created and distributed. The data will tell you what kind of content your audience will enjoy, where and how you can expect them to consume it. Timing is also important, and research can be used to figure out the best times of the month, week, and down to the time of day when posts will get the best visibility. After forming and deploying a content plan, it's important to be consistent with analyzing the performance of all posts, which means looking at various engagement metrics like impressions, clicks, shares, likes, and comments - not just the number of comments but what's being said by the audience. All of the before mentioned, lets you measure the success of your plan and make continuous improvements."

2nd Answer Example

"Data from different sources, for example, keyword research, surveys, or machine learning, needs to be analyzed to plan the best possible content and its reach, both organically and during paid promotions. Planning what topics to cover, keeping an editorial calendar, and knowing how to recycle posts effectively are important parts of creating a feeling of consistency and the proper messaging for a brand's audience. Lastly, it's a good idea to balance the human element with automation tools that will allow your content to be distributed in a timely and organized way that best fits the preferences of your audience."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"In my current role, I work primarily with online channels such as YouTube and IGTV, creating video content. I also have experience working on projects related to gamification ads. I saw in the HarperCollins job posting that you were looking for someone with in-depth knowledge with IGTV and Insta Stories for marketing. I would rate my knowledge in this area an 8 out of 10, leaving me very confident that I would meet your requirements."

2nd Answer Example

"While completing my degree in Digital Marketing, I learned a great deal about digital media production and design for video and web platforms. Most of my experience is with creating compelling video ads, and shorts for use online and on social media."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"My favorite forms of entertainment have always been podcasts, sci-fi fiction book series, and nature magazines. I have always wanted to work in the publishing industry, being the first to read new books from up-and-coming authors, and having a hand in the type of published literature that people are gifted."

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."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"The books I read are primarily mystery, thriller, and drama. If I could be known as an expert on any topic, it would be for true crime stories. I have conducted a great deal of research on these topics and am comfortable teaching many psychology-based concepts to others."

2nd Answer Example

"One topic I am most passionate about is the topic of writing, itself. I would love to be known as an expert in writing non-fiction pieces and teaching other aspiring writers how to come up with best-selling concepts."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I understand the frontlist to be newly published book titles where a backlist would be books that have been in print for about a year or more. For instance, HarperCollins has A Woman is No Man, by Etaf Rum on the frontlist at the moment, and titles such as Shaken, are likely on your backlist."

2nd Answer Example

"Right now, I would guess that The Song of the Jade Lily by Kirsty Manning is on the frontlist at HarperCollins where Charlotte's Web is on your backlist. Generally speaking, a newly published book will be on the frontlist where a book over a year in print will fall onto the backlist."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"At this point in my publishing career it's much easier for me to weed out an unreliable source versus a reputable one. When I first began my career; however, I trusted that many sources were credible, not accounting for the fact that there is so much fake news out there. Now, I triple check against our library of content, and online. Before any piece of content goes out, I will send it to our professional editor for a final once-over."

2nd Answer Example

"I will dig deeper into any sources, quotes, statistics, and do my best to find where they originated. If I cannot find the original source, I simply will not use the source."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I believe the key to success for a publisher in this digital era is to remain relevant in your core area, while also exploring the ways that digital can complement your existing products. If you are a traditional book publisher, for instance, why not explore the impact that a social media campaign could have for a new author. As in any industry, it's critical that we remain up to date with technology so that we are always meeting our audience where they are showing up."

2nd Answer Example

"The key to success in publishing, and many other industries is listening to your customers and taking action on what they are teaching you. For instance, in the publishing industry, it's critical that we deliver works on topics that people are searching for, and seeking out. We can accomplish this approach through surveys, polls, purchased data, and even some analytics on Google algorithms."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"There are tremendous benefits to working with a traditional publisher. These include the fact that a publisher knows how to advocate for your manuscript. They also have more connections than any independent author could ever gather. Another key point is that a traditional publisher can negotiate much better when it comes to book deals. I am eager to work with HarperCollins helping authors to navigate the challenging world of publishing."

2nd Answer Example

"I believe the list of benefits is lengthy and include greater visibility and audience reach for an author, the fact that a literary agent can negotiate very well for you and your manuscript. Also, with less need to coordinate all aspects of publishing, an author will have more time to focus on what they do best - write!"

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"In my current role we have a staff of 450 people within ten departments. Any given week, I will collaborate with marketing, sales, human resources, and IT. These are the departments with which I collaborate most often. I believe that everyone has a great deal of value to offer so, for that reason, I embrace every opportunity to collaborate cross-departmentally."

2nd Answer Example

"I look forward to getting to know your marketing, editorial, and design teams here at HarperCollins. Currently, in my internship, I have spent two weeks in each department, getting to know the ins and outs of publishing, design, marketing, sales, and even public relations. The experience has been invaluable."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"Print is still very relevant, especially when a publication attracts a particular niche. In an online-centric world, I would place focus on the nostalgia that comes from reading your favorite author and flipping the pages of a great book."

2nd Answer Example

"Many people love the offering of traditional books and the way they feel in their hands to read, versus using a tablet and reading an ebook. To increase printed book sales, I would focus on those features."

How to Answer

Wearing multiple hats is the name of the game when it comes to publishing. One moment you could be discussing the analytics of a past publication where the next you could be giving your opinion on the design of a book cover or layout of a new online article. It's essential that you show the interviewer your ability to be flexible on the job by pivoting tasks regularly. If possible, give an example of a time when you were able to flip between creative and analytical.

1st Answer Example

"I believe that I transition quite well between the creative and analytical. Generally speaking, I am more of a creative minded individual; however, my experience in business has allowed me to see the data and analytics behind a successful publication. So, in addition to my creative approach, I also ask myself or my team how our decisions will impact the company's bottom line. If hired, I will deliver a nice balance between analytical thinking and creative mindedness."

2nd Answer Example

"My educational background is in business with a focus on accounting and financial management. This coursework means that I am naturally inclined to look at data such as numbers, results, spend, account activity, and ROI. With that said, I spend my spare time in creative writing, dabbling in design, and other activities that relax and entertain me. I believe that I will pivot well between the creative and analytical sides of publishing because of this variety in knowledge and interests."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I have seen the HarperCollins logo consistently inside my favorite books for many years. Each year HarperCollins comes out with the hottest new authors, thrilling a variety of readers and audiences. With HarperCollins, you know you are picking up a book from a quality author; even when they are not a household name. In addition to this, your company is highly involved in supporting creativity and culture; a topic that gets me fired up. You support several non-profit organizations and initiatives committed to promoting literacy and education such as
First Book, Literacy Partners, Volunteers of America's Operation Backpack program, and Change for Kids."

2nd Answer Example

"Initially, I was drawn to HarperCollins because you publish books from many of my favorite authors, including Lauren Conrad. Your company is known to be a stand-out publisher since 198 and well respected. I also appreciate that you have recently made an effort to increase your exposure on social media channels like Instagram. Your feed is entertaining for book lovers like myself."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I have helped to edit documents large, and small, including whitepapers, web copy, and sales contracts. I am confident in my language, spelling, and grammar skills. It's rare that a mistake will get past me, as I pay strong attention to the small details."

2nd Answer Example

"Although I have not formally edited a document of significance, I do always make a habit of double checking my emails and other internal or external communication. I have used editing programs such as Grammarly in the past, for assignments and papers while attending university."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I love reading and try to pick up a new novel at least once per month. I read a variety of genres; however, my all time favorite book series is the Harry Potter series. I have read through the entire book series about three times. The way JK Rowling builds a world of suspense and magic never becomes tiresome."

2nd Answer Example

"My top three favorite books happen to be across multiple genres. One is 'All the Lives We Never Lived' by Anuradha Roy. This novel is by a renowned Indian writer who brings in stories from childhood with a theme of independence and finding oneself. The other is 'Becoming' by Michelle Obama, a memoir of the former First Lady. Lastly, the book of poetry by Rupi Kaur called 'Milk and Honey.' Her poetry is dark and beautiful."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I have strengths in a variety of areas; however, if I had to choose one stand-out area, I would choose book marketing. Some of the crucial book marketing steps that I have led include designing websites, building an email list for pre-sales, and creating social media strategies such as hashtag-driven contests."

2nd Answer Example

"I have performed well in all three of these areas but to choose just one, I would pick book sales. I have a solid background in sales with formal post-secondary education in sales and marketing. I look forward to working with HarperCollins and your authors to push record book sales this year."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I believe that paid social platforms are more important than ever, and while having a good audience and engagement helps increase your content's visibility organically, it's almost impossible to achieve the same results through organic reach only. A paid campaign is useful in restoring that visibility. It can also be beneficial to run paid campaigns because the social media platforms provide tools to analyze their progress, make adjustments to them as you go, and monitor your ROI."

2nd Answer Example

"In recent years, it has become clear that social media platforms prefer paid campaigns versus organic reach. Algorithms set by the platforms often do not allow a company's content to be seen on their audience's feeds without paying for it to appear to certain members. Now, this is where a publisher can benefit from paid advertising the most. With a paid campaign, they essentially tap into the platform's data on their users by specifying the demographic their content will be visible to. This enables them to engage only with people that are likely to be interested in their publications or latest book releases."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"With five years' experience in the publishing industry, I fully understand that my day can change on a dime. I remain on top of my deadlines by being prepared for a plan B at all times. Also, I track my progress and tasks through an app called Trello. This type of application works well for communicating with my team, ensuring we all work hard to meet expectations."

2nd Answer Example

"I learned during my time in university that deadlines are met most easily when there is organization and when tasks are properly mapped out from the start. I learned the hard way, having to cram in a few assignments because I was not well prepared. Now, when I begin a project, I create a timeline with an estimate on how long each task will take. From there, I divide my time."

How to Answer

There is no right or wrong way to answer this question! Unless you do not know any author names off hand, which could turn out disastrous since you're interviewing for a book publisher! Think of your favorite author and be prepared to discuss on a meaningful level, why you appreciate their work. Giving a surface-level answer would be the wrong thing to do here.

1st Answer Example

"My all-time favorite author is Stephen King because of his incredible success. He's become the figurehead for suspense, horror, and supernatural fiction. On top of selling over 350 million copies of his books, many of these have become films, comic books, and television series. It's incredible what he has accomplished."

2nd Answer Example

"From the time I was a kid, and still today, my favorite author is Judy Blume. She wrote young adult fiction that rubbed a lot of parents the wrong way, back in the 1980s and 1990s. She created this whole genre that came with important conversations that were once taboo. Decades later, she remains incredibly relevant in her space with many authors trying to emulate her style."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"For an up and coming author, I believe that HarperCollins could help by not only helping to sell a book or manuscript but also to teach the author about the industry and how to navigate its ins and outs. Negotiating lucrative contracts is another important aspect for HarperCollins to handle. As an experienced publishing professional, I know first hand how challenging it is for an author to fight for their work and its worth."

2nd Answer Example

"As an up and coming author myself, I believe what HarperCollins could best do for a new author is to teach them how to navigate the publishing industry. In turn, I believe that new authors could better deliver their work, spending less energy on negotiating and editing, and more energy focused on their creative craft."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I read a lot of history books and find so much of it fascinating. In particular, ancestry and genealogy. If I could pitch you one idea for a book, it would be a how-to for people who were starting on discovering their family lineage."

2nd Answer Example

"As a new graduate, I have a keen interest in productivity hacks for new university students. In my first year, I struggled with organization and time-management. By the end of my second year, I had mastered the art of juggling many priorities. This topic is in high demand, and I would pitch it as a series of e-books with a lot of great resources and graphics."

How to Answer

There is a multitude of publishing categories in which you could bring experience. This experience includes magazines, physical books, ebooks, catalogs, online publishers, newspapers, and more. Discuss with the interviewer the areas which you are most experienced. If you want to dive deeper into genres, you can certainly do that as well; especially if your experience is related to the publishing activities at HarperCollins. Be sure to sound confident, and finish your answer by tying in how this experience will make you successful in your new role.

1st Answer Example

"I am most familiar with book publishing, working with seasoned authors, often in the children and young adult realm. This experience will help me at HarperCollins because I know how to move content that appeals to a wide audience with significant age and interest gap."

2nd Answer Example

"Although I am new to publishing, I have the most experience reading and identify best with fashion and lifestyle publications. The mediums that I am most familiar with include online magazines and other digital content. I have a great eye for design and layout for online publications and believe I could offer HarperCollins fresh insight."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"I wish that I could say that books are still the most influential form of media today; however, I feel that the most influential form of media today is social media and online content. As a whole, the human race wants fast, easy to consume, entertainment news. Our rate of consumption is unprecedented, and the fastest way to access it is through online content sharing."

2nd Answer Example

"There are many important forms of media today - so many, in fact, that people seem to be getting overwhelmed. I would still say that traditional media, in the form of books, television, and the daily news, is at the top when it comes to the number of people influenced and the quality of the content distributed."

How to Answer

1st Answer Example

"From what I have read, the most significant trend in publishing is meeting the increasing demand from audiences to have their publications available through a variety of mediums. With a huge number of entertainment options available to consumers these days, it will be essential for publications to continue exploring multiple mediums. For instance, it's excellent that HarperCollins has made content available across many digital platforms, publishing thousands of eBooks, worldwide, every year."

2nd Answer Example

"Independent and new authors who are publishing onto alternative mediums such as Wattpad is one topic that has grabbed my interest. I understand that traditional publishers enjoy searching out for new authors on these platforms because it leads them to the authors and also their loyal readers. I believe we will see many more emerging authors discovered from online writing platforms like this."