Content Syrup Labs

I was preparing for an interview. I asked Chat GPT to pose tough technical questions for a senior-level content writing role. Replies are my own. It evaluated each answer and gave me feedback. I thought it would be helpful for anyone who is preparing for a content writer role. So I am sharing them with you. 

My Prompt: I have an interview for a content/article writing role. I want you to ask me 10 questions. Ask questions one by one. I will reply then you will pose a new question, and so forth. Make it tough and technical. Go!

1. When tasked with writing an article on an unfamiliar topic, how do you approach the research process to ensure the final piece is well-informed, accurate, and offers unique insights?

I begin by thoroughly reading the article brief—usually three to four times—to fully understand the context and requirements. If any terms are unfamiliar, a quick search helps clarify them. Once I grasp the topic, I dive into a couple of reliable blogs or articles to gather background information. I mentally store key facts and concepts before drafting. After completing the initial draft, I check for grammar and punctuation and then use AI tools for an additional layer of proofreading. Once submitted, I incorporate any feedback, recheck the piece, and finalize it before resubmitting.

2. Can you explain how you adapt your writing style to different audiences, such as a professional B2B audience versus a general consumer audience?

The main difference between B2B and B2C audiences lies in the depth of detail. B2B audiences often need thorough, data-driven content to make informed decisions, so I focus on delivering in-depth, well-researched insights. For B2C, while detail is valued, the content is typically more conversational and less technical. B2B content demands a more formal tone, sometimes incorporating charts, tables, or infographics to visually represent data. In contrast, B2C content tends to be friendlier, encouraging a casual and relatable style that engages the audience more personally.

3. How do you ensure SEO best practices are applied to your articles without compromising the quality of writing or sounding too keyword-stuffed?

I follow a balanced approach to keyword use. In a 500-word article, I’ll usually use the keyword two to three times to keep it natural. I find that writing in a conversational style allows keywords to fit organically within sentences, making it sound less robotic. Shifting parts of speech or rearranging phrases also helps keywords blend seamlessly into the text.

4. How do you approach writing a strong headline and introduction that captures attention in a crowded content space, especially when competing with similar topics?

For headlines and introductions, creativity is key. I often use an intriguing fact, provocative question, or bold statement to grab attention right from the start. My aim is to offer something fresh and compelling. I focus on building curiosity without being gimmicky, so readers feel drawn to continue, knowing they’re in for unique insights.

5. How do you fact-check and verify the credibility of sources, especially for topics with varying opinions or rapidly changing information?

I prioritize reputable sources for fact-checking, like Encyclopedia Britannica, which tends to have verified information. Wikipedia can be useful if the references linked in its articles are credible. For any fast-evolving topics, like sports scores, I wait until the information is more stable before summarizing it. For instance, I would avoid quoting a changing score mid-game and instead focus on an overall analysis once the game is finished.

6. How do you balance readability and complexity when writing for an audience that includes both experts and newcomers?

My approach is to aim for a 7th- to 10th-grade readability level. This means avoiding jargon, giving full names for acronyms, and providing brief explanations for technical terms. Even with mixed audiences, clarity is key—no one ever complains that content is too easy to understand. This strategy ensures accessibility without oversimplifying.

7. When dealing with complex topics, how do you structure your content to maintain a logical flow and prevent overwhelming the reader?

Outlining is essential for complex topics. I start with an introduction, define key terms, and then build each section logically with clear headings and subheadings. Visual aids like graphs, bullet points, and infographics also help. Transition words, such as “next” or “finally,” guide the reader smoothly through the content, while limiting technical language keeps things accessible.

8. Can you discuss your process for editing and improving a draft to enhance clarity, tone, and overall impact? What key elements do you focus on?

My editing process begins with free writing, which I then shape into a first draft. After checking grammar, punctuation, and style, I refine the content and create a second draft. I’ll use AI tools for proofreading and submit it for feedback. If there’s room for improvement, I make adjustments to ensure it reads smoothly and flows logically, removing any unnecessary text.

9. When writing for different platforms (e.g., blogs, social media, news outlets), how do you adjust your content to suit the specific platform's tone, audience, and engagement style?

Each platform has its own style and audience. Blog posts are conversational and may include personal opinions, while articles are more formal and factual. For social media, I adjust tone and style based on the platform’s culture: LinkedIn requires professionalism, while Facebook is informal, Instagram is visual, and Twitter is concise and to the point. Adapting to each platform ensures engagement and relevance.

10. How do you handle writer's block, especially when under a tight deadline, and what strategies do you use to maintain productivity?

I tackle writer's block with free writing—even if it starts with unrelated ideas like, “Once there was a fox…” It gets my creativity going. During the first draft, I don’t worry about grammar or flow; I treat it as a launching pad for ideas. For productivity, I use timed writing sessions, like the Pomodoro technique—40 to 50 minutes of focused work, followed by a 10-minute break. This helps keep me energized and on track.

11. How do you approach the use of storytelling in content writing, especially when the objective is to inform rather than entertain?

Storytelling is a powerful way to convey information, even for non-fiction. For example, The Energy Bus uses fictional storytelling to present ten principles on life and work. While B2B content often requires a formal tone, adding a simple story can make it more engaging and relatable, enhancing the message without sacrificing professionalism.

12. What is your technique for using metaphors or analogies in writing, and how do you ensure they are both effective and easy for the reader to understand?

Metaphors and analogies are excellent for illustrating complex ideas. I aim to choose relatable comparisons that fit the subject matter, sometimes borrowing from idioms or proverbs. Whether it’s a “stepping stone” or a “new chapter,” the analogy should feel natural and enhance understanding.

13. How do you utilize active vs. passive voice in your writing, and what factors guide your choice between the two?

I typically use an active voice for its clarity and energy. However, when I want to emphasize the object, I opt for passive voice. For example, “The Vedas are considered divine texts by Hindus” highlights the reverence of the Vedas, making the object (the Vedas) more impactful.